Mr Caldwell's POV:
The hiking trip was coming up, and I was determined to be prepared. Not that I didn't know how to pack for a hike, but there was an extra layer of excitement humming under my skin this time.
Because Shella was going.
I didn't even have to ask; I'd overheard Mrs. Palmer discussing the trip logistics with Trey and Mrs. Thompson earlier. Shella's name had been on the list.
I grabbed my shopping basket and started tossing in the essentials—protein bars, sunscreen, and a few extra bottles of water. My phone buzzed in my pocket, and I couldn't help but grin, already knowing who it was.
Shella: I'm gonna die on this trip. Like, actually.
Shella: Are you bringing a first-aid kit? Because I'll need it.
I chuckled, imagining her dramatic expression as she typed the messages.
Me: You'll be fine. I'll be there.
Me: And yes, I'm packing a first-aid kit. For you, specifically.
She didn't reply immediately, so I kept moving through the store, picking up a lightweight sleeping bag and a rain jacket. My phone buzzed again.
Shella: What if I trip and fall off the mountain?
Shella: Are you strong enough to catch me?
I stopped in the middle of the aisle, laughing out loud. A few other shoppers glanced at me, and I quickly cleared my throat, pretending to examine a shelf of trail mix.
Me: Very strong. Totally capable of catching you.
Me: Want proof?
The moment I hit send, I realized what I'd just done.
Proof? What was I thinking?
Before I could talk myself out of it, I set my basket down and pulled out my phone's camera. I hesitated for a moment, then unbuttoned my shirt and shrugged it off, snapping a quick picture of my bare chest.
The image wasn't bad—broad shoulders, defined abs, and the faint sheen of sweat from hauling stuff around the store. I looked...decent.
I should've deleted it.
Instead, I sent it.
Me: This strong enough?
The second the message went through, my heart dropped into my stomach.
What the hell did I just do?
I stared at the screen, willing the message to unsend itself. But, of course, it didn't.
My phone buzzed almost immediately.
Shella: Oh my God.
Shella: WHAT ARE YOU DOING?
My face burned as I grabbed my basket and bolted for the checkout line.
Me: Motivating you.
Me: You said you were worried about falling. Now you know I've got you.
Her reply came through as I shoved my items onto the conveyor belt.
Shella: You're insane.
Shella: Also...nice shoulders.
I grinned despite myself, the embarrassment fading slightly.
Me: Thanks. They're reserved for catching you.
Me: And maybe carrying your stuff when you get tired.
Shella: You're ridiculous.
Shella: But...thanks.
As I left the store and loaded the gear into my car, I couldn't stop smiling.
YOU ARE READING
Lessons In Butterflies ｡ ｡ ｡ (StudentxTeacher Romance)
Romance___ "What? Oh, no. No, no, no. We are not playing family," I stammered, glancing quickly at Mr. Caldwell, who was staring wide-eyed at Theo and Leo. Leo, never one to miss an opportunity, immediately started bouncing. "Yeah! You can be our dad! And...
