Bini Imagines or AU's

Gwen Apuli

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Athena Rivera POV

The halls of the university were quiet, a stark contrast to the bustling classrooms and busy lecture halls. I relished these moments of solitude, using my free time to gather my thoughts and unwind before the end of the school day. The weight of assignments and exams often left me feeling overwhelmed, and this brief respite was a welcome escape.

I was lost in my thoughts, my mind wandering to the pile of textbooks waiting for me at home, when I turned a corner and collided with something—or rather, someone.

"Watch where you're going," a stern voice snapped.

I looked up to find myself staring into the piercing eyes of Professor Gwen Apuli. She was known for her strict demeanor and high expectations, a reputation that both intimidated and intrigued me. Her gaze was intense, and for a moment, I felt like a deer caught in headlights.

"I'm sorry, Professor," I stammered, taking a step back. "I wasn't paying attention."

Her expression softened slightly, but the sternness remained. "You should be more careful, Miss Rivera. The hallways aren't a place for daydreaming."

I nodded, feeling a flush creep up my cheeks. "Yes, ma'am."

She lingered for a moment, her eyes scanning my face as if searching for something. I couldn't help but notice how striking she looked, her dark hair pulled back in a neat bun, her sharp features accentuated by the crispness of her blouse. There was an air of authority about her, a presence that demanded respect.

"Do you have a class right now?" she asked, her tone still firm but less harsh.

"No, I have some free time before my next class," I replied, my voice steadying.

She nodded, a thoughtful look crossing her face. "Follow me," she said abruptly, turning on her heel and walking down the hall.

I hesitated for a moment before following her, curiosity piqued. We walked in silence until we reached her office. She opened the door and gestured for me to enter.

The room was neatly organized, bookshelves lined with academic texts and papers stacked meticulously on her desk. She closed the door behind us and motioned for me to sit.

"Is there something you wanted to discuss?" I asked, unsure of why she had brought me here.

She sat down across from me, her eyes locking onto mine. "I've noticed you in my lectures, Miss Rivera. You have a lot of potential, but you seem distracted lately. Is everything alright?"

Her question caught me off guard. I hadn't expected her to notice me, let alone be concerned about my well-being. "I've just been stressed with schoolwork," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.

She nodded, her gaze softening. "It's important to find balance, Athena. You can't let the pressure consume you."

Hearing her use my first name sent a shiver down my spine. There was something about the way she said it, with a mix of authority and concern, that made my heart race.

"I know," I replied, my voice steadier now. "I'm trying."

She leaned back in her chair, her eyes never leaving mine. "You're a bright student, Athena. Don't lose sight of your potential."

"Thank you, Professor," I said, feeling a warmth spread through me.

She stood up and walked around the desk, stopping in front of me. She reached out and gently lifted my chin, forcing me to meet her gaze. "Promise me you'll take care of yourself," she said softly, her thumb brushing against my skin.

"I promise," I whispered, my heart pounding in my chest.

Her eyes lingered on mine for a moment longer before she stepped back, her usual stern demeanor returning. "You should get to your next class."

I nodded, standing up and heading for the door. As I reached for the handle, I turned back to look at her. "Thank you, Professor. For everything."

She gave me a small, almost imperceptible smile. "You're welcome, Athena."

As I walked out of her office and down the hall, I couldn't shake the feeling that something had changed between us. There was an unspoken connection, a spark that had ignited in that brief encounter.

And as I made my way to my next class, I couldn't help but wonder what the future held for us, and how this unexpected moment might shape the path ahead.

pt 2?? (Request are open!)