il mio professore

Chapter 12~~✨

Livia pov

As I stepped into the kitchen, the enticing aroma of breakfast wafted through the air, wrapping around me like a cozy blanket. Augustus was at the stove, his focus entirely on the task at hand, flipping eggs with an ease that made my heart swell. I couldn't help but smile—he was such a talented cook, and I marveled at how he excelled at everything he did.

"Good morning," I said, leaning against the doorframe, still waking up but feeling a rush of warmth at the sight of him. "What's that delicious smell?"

"Breakfast," he replied, glancing over his shoulder with a playful grin. "I thought I'd whip up something special for my wife before we dive into another day of classes."

"Is that so?" I teased, stepping closer. "Did you burn the toast?"

"Not yet," he laughed, the sound rich and soothing. "But I can't make any promises."

Watching him move around the kitchen, I felt a rush of affection. Augustus Moreno—the strict biology professor—was a man of many talents. He had a way of making even the most mundane mornings feel special, and I cherished these moments we shared before heading off to our university classes.

As he plated our breakfast, I took a moment to absorb my surroundings. The kitchen was small, but it felt like a sanctuary filled with laughter and love. We had been married for a few months now, and the reality of our life together still felt surreal. I was studying biology, pursuing a path that was both challenging and rewarding, while also nurturing my passion for art in my free time. Balancing the two was a constant juggling act, but I was determined to succeed.

"Wow, you really went all out this morning," I said, eyeing the perfectly cooked eggs and golden toast. "I'm impressed."

"Just trying to impress my talented wife," he replied, his tone earnest yet playful.

As we sat down to eat, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves about the day ahead. I was diving deeper into my biology studies, eager to learn more about the life sciences, even as my heart often wandered back to the world of colors and creativity. Augustus was my biology professor, and while he maintained a strict demeanor in class, I knew the warm, supportive man behind that facade.

"What's on your agenda today?" he asked, pouring us both a cup of coffee.

"I have a lab session where we're studying cellular structures," I replied, feeling a flutter in my stomach. "I'm a bit nervous. You know how passionate I am about art, but sometimes I feel like I'm just trying to keep up in biology."

"You'll do great," he said, reaching across the table to squeeze my hand. "You have a natural curiosity that will serve you well. Plus, I'll be there to help you if you need anything."

"Thanks, Augustus. I know I can always count on you."

"Just remember, biology is beautiful in its own way," he said, a hint of playfulness in his tone. "Just like art. You can find creativity in the most unexpected places."

I smiled, feeling inspired. I loved that he understood my passion for art while encouraging my commitments in biology. As we finished breakfast and prepared to face the day, I felt a surge of optimism. With Augustus by my side, I was ready to embrace whatever challenges lay ahead.

After we finished breakfast, I gathered my things, stuffing my notebook and art supplies into my backpack. My heart raced with a mix of excitement and apprehension as I thought about the day ahead. The lab session was always a whirlwind of activity, and while I was eager to dive into the material, I couldn't shake the nervousness that came with wanting to prove myself.

"Are you ready?" Augustus asked, his voice steady and reassuring as he grabbed his briefcase and adjusted his tie. He looked every bit the part of a dedicated professor, and I felt a swell of pride knowing he was mine.

"As ready as I'll ever be," I replied with a small laugh. "Just remember to keep an eye on me during class. I might need a lifeline."

"Don't worry, I'll be watching," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "But I can't promise I won't call you out if you're daydreaming about your art."

"Fair enough," I chuckled, rolling my eyes playfully. "I can't help it if I get inspired by the microscopic world of cells!"

We stepped outside, the crisp morning air invigorating as we made our way to campus. The university was alive with students bustling from one class to another, laughter and chatter filling the air. I loved this atmosphere, the vibrant energy that buzzed around us, but it also reminded me of the pressure to keep up with my studies.

As we approached the biology building, I felt a flutter in my stomach. I would be in the lab with Augustus, but I also knew he had to maintain his professional demeanor in front of the other students. I hoped they wouldn't see me as just "the professor's wife." I wanted to earn their respect as a fellow student, not just as a person connected to someone in authority.

"Hey," Augustus said, noticing my anxious expression. He gently squeezed my hand as we walked. "You've worked hard to be here. Just be yourself, Livia. Your passion and knowledge will shine through."

"Thanks, Augustus. I'll try to keep that in mind."

We reached the lab, and I took a deep breath to steady myself. As I entered, the familiar sight of microscopes and lab equipment greeted me. My classmates were already gathered, chatting and preparing for the session. I spotted a few friendly faces and felt a bit of my tension ease.

"Looks like you're popular," Augustus said, his gaze flickering over the room. "Just remember, focus on the material today."

With a playful salute, I replied, "Yes, sir!"

He chuckled softly, then turned serious as he stepped to the front of the room. As he began to speak, commanding attention with his presence, I couldn't help but admire him. He was strict, but I knew there was a passion for teaching beneath that exterior. He wanted us to succeed, and I felt lucky to have him as my professor.

As the lab progressed, I found myself immersed in the work. Peering through the microscope, I examined the intricate structures of cells, feeling a sense of wonder wash over me. Biology, with its complexities and mysteries, held a beauty of its own—one I slowly began to appreciate.

"Livia, can you explain what you're observing?" Augustus's voice cut through my thoughts, and I looked up to find him watching me with an expectant expression.

I took a breath, feeling the eyes of my classmates on me. "Uh, yes! I'm looking at these plant cells, and I can see the cell wall and chloroplasts clearly. It's fascinating how they're structured and how they function in photosynthesis."

"Excellent observation," he said, nodding approvingly. I felt a rush of pride at his praise, a reminder that I belonged here.

As the lab continued, I found my confidence growing. I engaged with my classmates, contributing to discussions and asking questions. I was learning to balance my love for art with the rigor of biology, and it felt rewarding to embrace both sides of my identity.

After class, as students filed out of the lab, Augustus approached me, a proud smile on his face. "You did great today. I could see your enthusiasm."

"Thanks! I felt more comfortable than I expected," I admitted, a grin spreading across my face.

"Just remember, whether it's biology or art, your passion is what makes you shine," he said, wrapping an arm around my shoulders.

"Speaking of art, I have a sketch I want to show you later," I said, my excitement bubbling over.

"Can't wait to see it," he replied, his eyes sparkling with interest. "But first, let's grab some lunch. I think we both deserve a break."