"Olly you scared me," I spoke and she smiled up at me. "It's nice to know you care about me," she adjusted her maroon beanie. my skin burned at her words and she looked at me genuinely with her piercing blue eyes. Her black and maroon clothing brought out the blue in her eyes... Nicole, no. I cleared my throat, "is it not normal for a principal to show concern for their student's well being?" I shook my thoughts away. She gave me that smirk and crossed her arms, "sure oookaayy," she lingered with sarcasm.

Valentina, a student at Heartfelt University, is assigned to the notoriously rude and cold Professor Montgomery. While the professor's harsh demeanor clashes with Val's quiet and positive nature, their academic sparring soon turns into something deeper. As Val's intelligence and persistence break through Professor Montgomery's icy exterior, a surprising and tender connection begins to bloom. [wlw] [slow burn]