Hippocralis Series: Warmth Beyond Frost

Chapter 12

I heard him chuckle and looked up. He was smiling, his face tilted as he looked at me.

“Go on...” he said.

My cheeks flushed. I bit my lip and asked, “Do you have difficulty swallowing?”

“Yes,” he answered.

“Does your throat feel sore or...?”

“Yes,” he confirmed.

He smiled, his eyes locking onto mine. “Tell me, what are your findings, doc?” he asked, his lips curving into a smile.

My heart raced, and I averted my gaze. “Y-your tonsils are inflamed-so you have tonsillitis, s-sir.”

“We're alone,” he said softly.

“Thorne,” I said, trying to stay composed. “A little medication can help; I'm sure there are stocks in the storage.”

“I see. I guess I'll do that then,” he replied.

I smiled. “You should also check yourself too,” I advised.

“I was too busy; I don't have time for myself every day,” he said.

“It's not an excuse," I said firmly. "I wouldn't have accidentally checked you if it weren't necessary. Tonsillitis can lead to fever, and it's quite bothersome.”

He chuckled. “Well, I guess I'll just ask you to take care of me then.”

I looked away, feeling my face grow hotter.

“Well, I'm not a professional doctor; I'm just your student,” I said.

“My students are the best,” he replied, standing carefully and walking toward me.

“You're one of them. If I were to be your patient, dear God, I'd hope to be sick all the time.”

His eyes remained locked on mine, his voice husky and whispering, yet I could hear him clearly.

“P-professor...”

“Yes, flower?”

I swallowed, struggling to maintain my composure. His intense raven eyes, perfectly sculpted nose, and sharp jawline were even more striking in the air-conditioned room. The sophisticated scent of leather seemed to blend with the warmth of my emotions.

“I hated winter and anything that reminds me of it, and you-you're an exception. I truly believe that winter is beautiful”

I was in my dorm, shocked, stunned, and confused. I didn't remember how I ended up managing on my own. My heart still raced, my cheeks were hot as Thorne's words replayed in my head.

“I hated winter and anything that reminds me of it...”

“And you're an exception. I truly believe that winter is beautiful..”

“O my God! Stop-Zaira! Stop!” I said to myself.

Why am I not angry with him? I should be; he was too close, as if he were about to kiss me. He's attractive, but I shouldn't be feeling this way he's my teacher for God's sake.

I hate to admit it, but these feelings inside me are strange, as if I have feelings for him—no! Oh my God! This can't be.

I knew I had to ignore him and avoid any further interactions to prevent these feelings from growing.The next morning, I kept my composure and blended in with my colleagues.