Elena woke up slowly, blinking as the morning sunlight spilled through the curtains. For a moment, she didn’t know where she was, her mind sluggish and hazy. Then it all came rushing back-the fainting, Professor Blackwood taking care of her, and the warmth she had felt as he dried her hair.
Her heart thudded at the memory, and she buried her face in her hands. Why does it feel like everything is changing? she thought, trying to steady herself. She had never felt this way before-not about anyone.
Her gaze fell on the tray of soup and coffee sitting untouched on the side table. Guilt curled in her stomach. She hadn’t even thanked him properly, let alone eaten. Sighing, she moved to get out of bed, intending to grab her clothes.
But then her eyes landed on the package resting on the chair near the bed. It was wrapped neatly, with a small note attached.
—
Elena’s POV
Curious, she reached for the note, her fingers trembling slightly.
“Wear this. You’ll be more comfortable. Blackwood”
Her cheeks heated at the sight of his familiar handwriting. Slowly, she unwrapped the package, her breath hitching as she took in the contents: a black skirt, a blue blouse, and even new inner garments, black shiny sandals, and delicate hair accessories.
She touched the fabric, soft and new, and couldn’t help but smile faintly. He had thought of everything. But why? She hesitated, unsure if she could accept this. Wasn’t it too much? Why would he go through so much trouble for me?
A knock at the door startled her, and before she could respond, it opened.
Adrian’s POV
Adrian stepped into the room, his gaze immediately falling on her as she held up the outfit. Her wide eyes darted to him, and she clutched the clothes to her chest.
“Good, you’re awake,” he said, his tone as composed as ever. “I was wondering if you planned to skip breakfast too.”
Elena lowered her gaze, her cheeks turning pink. “Professor Blackwood… this… I…”
He raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. “Is there a problem?”
“No, but… you didn’t have to do this,” she mumbled, glancing down at the outfit.
“I didn’t,” he said firmly. “But I wasn’t going to let you walk into the university wearing the same clothes as yesterday. Do you want people gossiping about you again?”
Her head snapped up at that, her eyes wide with a mix of surprise and embarrassment. “I… no, of course not.”
“Then wear it,” he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. He sighed when he saw her still hesitating. “Look, it’s just clothes, Elena. Don’t overthink it. Get dressed and come down for breakfast.”
Elena’s POV
After he left, she stood there for a long moment, staring at the door. His words echoed in her mind-firm, caring, but not cruel. He had gone out of his way to help her, but why did it make her chest feel so tight?
She finally dressed in the outfit he’d chosen. The skirt fit perfectly, brushing her knees, and the blouse felt soft against her skin. The sandals added a touch of elegance. For the first time in a long time, she felt…presentable.
When she caught her reflection in the mirror, she barely recognized herself.
Adrian was pouring himself a cup of coffee when he heard her light footsteps. He turned, and his breath caught.
Elena stood at the doorway, her hands nervously fidgeting with the hem of her blouse. The outfit suited her perfectly, emphasizing her delicate frame and soft features. Her damp hair had dried into gentle waves, and the small hairpins she’d used gave her a polished look.
“You look fine,” he said, setting his coffee down. “Now sit and eat.”
Her cheeks turned pink, but she obeyed, sliding into the seat across from him. She hesitated when he placed a plate of toast and eggs in front of her.
“I… I’m not really hungry,” she admitted softly.
Adrian’s eyes narrowed. “You’re eating,” he said firmly. “No excuses.”
Elena bit her lip but picked up the fork. He watched her closely, ensuring she took every bite. When she paused, he leaned forward, his tone sharp but concerned. “You can’t neglect your health like this, Miss Harper. Skipping meals isn’t just irresponsible it’s not healthy.”
Her shoulders tensed, and she nodded. “I’ll try to do better,” she whispered.
“Not try. Do it,” he insisted. His gaze softened slightly as he added, “You fainted yesterday because you didn’t take care of yourself. I won’t let that happen again.”
His words were stern, but Elena could feel the care behind them. No one had ever spoken to her like this before not with such genuine concern. It made her chest ache in a way she couldn’t explain.
She finished her meal quietly, sneaking glances at him as he drank his coffee. His sharp features were softened by the morning light, but his eyes remained intense.
“Thank you,” she said suddenly, breaking the silence.
He looked up, surprised. “For what?”
“For… everything,” she said, gesturing to the outfit and the food.
Adrian shrugged, but there was a faint smirk on his lips. “Someone has to keep reminding you, as you’re still a little kiddo.”
Elena’s eyes widened, and her mouth fell open slightly in disbelief. For a moment, she just stared at him, unsure whether to be offended or laugh.
“I am not a kiddo,” she finally said, crossing her arms over her chest. “I’m an adult, in case you forgot.”
Adrian raised an eyebrow, his smirk deepening. “Could’ve fooled me with how you pass out from not eating. Sounds like something a careless teenager would do.”
Elena’s cheeks turned bright red, and she looked away, biting her lip. “I was just tired, that’s all…” she mumbled, feeling embarrassed.
“Right. Let’s call it that,” Adrian said, his tone teasing but light.
She glared at him, a mix of annoyance and flustered energy bubbling inside her. “I’ll show you who’s careless,” she muttered under her breath, grabbing the last bite of toast just to prove a point.
Adrian chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Sure, kiddo. We’ll see.”
The playful tone in his voice was maddening, but Elena caught the faint warmth in his gaze that lingered a little too long. Despite herself, she couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at her lips, even as she tried to stay annoyed.
As they finished breakfast, Adrian stood. “I’ll drop you off at the university,” he said.
Her eyes widened. “That’s not necessary…..”
“It is,” he interrupted. “After yesterday, I’m not letting you walk in alone.”
They left the house together, the morning air crisp and quiet. But as they approached the university, Elena’s heart sank. Whispers and stares followed them as they walked through the courtyard.
Adrian, sensing her unease, placed a hand on her back, guiding her toward the entrance. But just as they reached the doors, a voice called out, sharp and suspicious.
“Professor Blackwood. Interesting company you’re keeping.”
Elena froze, her heart pounding as she turned to see another professor watching them with a raised brow. Adrian’s jaw tightened, his expression unreadable as he turned to face the newcomer.