thea_keith_

Thea never thought she would return here. Not after everything that had happened. But life had a way of circling back, dragging her into familiar halls, familiar faces—and him.

Professor Adrian Carter.

The past was supposed to be buried beneath the diamond Andrew had slipped onto her finger, beneath whispered promises of a future that was stable, predictable. But now, standing in Adrian’s office once more, she knew some ghosts never truly left.

And neither did certain desires.

The Shadow of Past desires

Thea spent the rest of the evening trying to ignore the burn of Adrian's presence in her thoughts. Her engagement ring felt heavier than usual, a tangible reminder of the life she had promised to Andrew. Yet, the way Adrian's fingers had brushed against hers, the knowing look in his eyes—it made her question how firm that promise really was.

By the time she reached her small apartment, her phone buzzed. A message from Andrew.

Miss you, love. Can't wait to see you this weekend.

She exhaled, typing a quick response. Miss you too.

Before she could dwell on that thought, another message came through. This time, from an unknown number.

You looked lost in thought tonight. Something on your mind?

She hesitated for a moment before replying. I was just focused on work, Professor Carter.

His response was swift. That's a shame. I was hoping you were thinking about something else.

Heat rushed through her, even as she knew she should shut this down. Instead, her fingers hovered over the screen.

Before she could reply, another message appeared.

She let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. Setting her phone aside, she climbed into bed, but sleep never came easily. Instead, the memory of Adrian's voice haunted her dreams.

And deep down, she feared she didn't want them to stop.

Lingering Shadows