s. The sound of the bell ringing in the distance signaled the end of the day, but she didn't head for the dorms. Instead, she foun

Charles's voice

Charles was at his desk, sorting through a pile of papers. He

quite reach his eyes. "I didn't expect to see y

wkwardly near the door. "I... I had some questio

ng his papers aside. He gestured to the

ound her. Father Charles leaned back in his chair, watching her closely

lmost too casual. "Not many students would

front of her. She began to speak, but Father Charles rose f

leaning over her shoulder. His hand came to rest

"You're doing well, Dahlia," he murmured, his hand sliding

hand moved again, slowly brushing over her shoulder and down her arm.

ars ago," he said softly, his voice almos

now, as he leaned in even closer, his breath hot on her neck

sickening mix of charm and threat. "I see something in y

tten. Father Charles's hand slid lower still, his fing

red, his hand tightening slightly. "You

soft knock

hand away as if nothing had happened. The door crea

uld ask about tomorrow's assignmen

tantly, his face a mask of professional

She didn't look at him as she moved toward the door, her legs shaky beneat

he said, his tone smooth as e

om as quickly as she could, the heavy do