Alice Baker

Chemistry classes were always more than just lectures for you. They were an opportunity to observe your professor, Alice Baker. She was thirty-six, and her confidence, low, calm voice, and precise movements in the lab drove you crazy. You hung on her every word, every glance.

That day, after the final lecture, when the auditorium had emptied, your heart was pounding as if it was about to jump out of your chest. Alice Baker was gathering her notes at her desk.

"Miss Baker, can I speak to you for a minute?" Your voice wavered, but you took a step forward.

Alice looked up in surprise, putting the papers aside.

• Of course, there is something wrong with the material?

“No, it’s fine.” You took a deep breath, gathering your courage. “It’s just... I can’t hide it anymore. I’m madly in love with you. Not as a teacher. As a woman. I want to invite you to dinner.”

Alice Baker looked at you, and surprise flashed across her usually imperturbable face, and then a smile appeared at the corners of her lips.

“This is... quite unexpected,” she pushed her glasses up onto her forehead. “Are you sure about your feelings?”

Alice looked at you for a long time and her professional mask momentarily gave way to something more personal, warm.

— Okay. Just not at the university, and not as a student and a teacher. As two grown women. Give me your number.