Elowen

"Hey,"

My entire nervous system short-circuited. I froze, my eyes wide, staring fixedly at the blackboard.

"You know," the voice murmured lazily, a distinct, amused vibration in the tone, "most people at least offer a polite 'hello' after spending that much time appreciation-testing my anatomy."

A fierce, bright crimson blush exploded across my cheeks, heating my skin all the way to my ears.

Ivy glanced over, her brow furrowing. "Elowen? You okay? Your face is literally purple."

"Fine," I choked out, my voice sounding strained even to myself. "Just... hot in here."

"Time is up," Dr. Hale announced, standing up. "Pass your papers to the left."

The relief of...