Almost Lover

[RealisticFantasy]

Victoria stands, chatting idly with her friends in the hallways of the esteemed Whitehill Academy. She cringes as her gaze falls upon a poster that reads "Annual Whitehill Academy Masquerade Charity Event... Come out and represent your school!" She scoffs, turning her attention back to her friends and nodding to the poster. "Thank god that's optional, huh?" Ding. Victoria's cellphone notification goes off and she fishes through the pockets of her jeans. As she finally finds the device, she enters her passcode and opens the email she just received.


"'Please come to my office at your earliest convenience (that means now). Your friendly neighborhood Dean'... Looks like I gotta split." She groans, flashing the message to the surrounding group of friends. "Yikes! Again, Vee?" Victoria's friend Allison raises an eyebrow at her. Victoria turns on her heels and starts heading toward the Dean's office, talking over her shoulder. "Again. And, I told you not to call me that and who actually says yikes?" Allison sticks her tongue out at Victoria and Victoria laughs.


Victoria’s First Day

“Where’s the fucking auditorium?” Victoria mumbles under her breath as she races down the halls of Whitehill Academy. Of course, her first class had to be in a place she had never been to before. She didn’t get to visit the campus often because of the distance between it and her hometown and now that seemed to be punishing her. If it was any of class she would stop and ask for directions, but – as fate would have it – it had to be Professor Black’s class. He had a reputation of being the meanest, strictest professor in the school, if not the entire country. But, he had his strong points… Or so they said.

Finally, Victoria rounds a corner and sees four set of double doors that lead into the auditorium. She pushes open the center most one with a distinctive click that rings out through the silence of the auditorium. All eyes are on her as she walks down the aisle to where the class was seated. The professor sits on the edge of the stage, holding a clipboard. Obviously, he was in mid-roll call. “Victoria Greene.” He says it calmly but bitterly as it the words had a bad taste to them. Victoria sheepishly raises a hand as she takes a seat. “Uh, here. Sorry, I’m late. I got… lost.” She raises her gaze to the professor with a forced smile. He was much more attractive than she had anticipated and it caught her a bit off guard. She just hopes that the description of his personality wasn't under-exaggerated as well.




Victoria enters the main office of Whitehill Academy and walks up to the desk of the secretary. She was an older woman with streaks of gray in her black hair which was always pulled back into a ponytail. She also had a strange scent about her that no one could quite put their finger on, although it was vaguely reminiscent of oatmeal and perfume. She narrows her eyes at Victoria before chuckling lightly. "You just can't seem to stay out of trouble, huh? You remind me of myself when I was your age... Anyway, go right in. They're waiting for you." Victoria offers a polite smile as she walks around and past the desk toward the looming door of the Dean. They? Who's they? She knocks lightly on the door, waiting for the familiar voice of Dean Pierce. "Come in." Victoria opens the door with a gentle push.


Her gaze falls upon Professor Black sitting in a large leather chair across from the Dean. She drops into the chair beside him, subtly scooting it away from his presence as she lets out an involuntary groan. "Is there an issue, Ms. Greene?" She looks up to Dean Pierce across the wooden desk that sits between them. "An issue?" She finds her gaze involuntarily trailing over to Professor Black before she redirects her focus back to Dean Pierce. "No, of course not... However, if I may ask, why am I - are we - here?"

 

[shygirl3]

Professor Black arrive to Dean Pierce's office and sat down in a chair. "Why exactly did you need to tell me in person that you couldn't just tell me in an e-mail?" Black asked sort of annoyed. "I'm a busy man Pierce, let's cut to the chase." Dean Pierce gave Professor Black a smile "not until the young lady gets here." At that Bradley straightened up in his seat a little bit, "young lady? Who is joining us?" he asked curiously, his interest peaked. "Miss Greene, of course." He was left slightly speechless, Victoria Greene was the first person who was ever late to his class and had the audacity to even bother showing up and even worse use the excuse that she was late. Bradley rested his elbow on the arm of the chair and rested his chin in the fleshy part of his palm and his fingers running up the side of his face. "Maybe she got lost." he commented sarcastically as they waited for Miss. Greene's arrival.


Black was getting impatient, how much longer could this girl take, he asked himself. Finally he heard the door opened. He practically laughed when she scooted her chair away from him, I'm not keen on sitting next to you either. Bradley heard Pierce ask Victoria if there was an issue, "I can think of a couple" he muttered disinterested. Dean Pierce walked around his desk, leaning against the front of it, smiling at both of them. "You both will be representing Whitehall Academy at the Masquerade Charity Event." Pierce stated happily. Professor Black had just taken a sip of his coffee and nearly choked on it. Through coughs and sputters he managed to say "you're shitting me Pierce, right?" The Dean shook his head "You will be there Bradley and you and Miss. Greene will attract many donations to this school, is that understood." Professor Black stood up "This isn't in my contract, no where in my job description does it say spend evening at masquerade event with a student fundraising." Pierce stood and looked at Professor Black "Professor, I'd pick your fights wisely if I were you." Professor Black glared at him "I'll e-mail you my conditions." he commented cooly.


Dean Pierce looked back over at Victoria, "I don't have to deal with objections from you too, do I?" he asked. Not really waiting for a response, "I'll be waiting for the checks to begin rolling in, you both are dismissed." he said happily. Professor Black walked towards the door, clearly annoyed. "What took you so long? Did you get lost?" he muttered mockingly to Victoria on his way out.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

"You both will be representing Whitehall Academy at the Masquerade Charity Event." Victoria can feel her jaw drop. That charity event was the last place she would want to be. And with Black? Oh, no. No, no, no. She opens her mouth to protest, but Professor Black takes care of that. As Pierce turns his attention on her with a curt, "I don't have to deal with objections from you too, do I?" she shakes her head. Black can talk all the heat for talking back. She rises to her feet after being 'dismissed' and once they're out of earshot of Pierce, Black has the audacity to turn to her and say something sarcastic as per usual. "What took you so long? Did you get lost?"


She rolls her eyes and lets out an annoyed sigh. "Oh, that was so funny I forgot to laugh. I hope you know it's entirely your fault that we have to go to this charity masquerade idiocy. Thank god I'll be able to hide behind a mask at least and Pierce can't make me spend time with you." She flashes a smile to the secretary with a small wave. Contrary to Black's belief, she was a charming person. Her gaze shifts to the clock sitting on her desk with a soft groan. Oh so conveniently she had to spend more quality time with Black as his class was next. Looks like we're walking over together buddy. She runs a hand through her hair, keeping her gaze glued to the ground. Now, she had to find a dress and a mask. Even if she was forced to go, she was going to look presentable.


"Wear something decent, won't you? If you can manage that, of course." Forced to go to the most boring party of the century with the person she hates the most. What sick twist of fate was this? She had earned everything she had received. She had even eaten 99 cent packages of ramen noodles for two years straight to save enough money to go to Whitehill. And, this man - this stupid man - is going to ruin everything for her. She sighs silently. The last thing she needed was him making fun of her for actually being upset about this.

 

[shygirl3]

Victoria Greene was the last person he wanted to be walking with. Her snarky comments made his blood boil. There were times where he just wanted to yell at her until his head exploded. For some reason he found her to be the most frustrating person on this campus, and now he had to spend a whole evening with her. Hearing her blame him for having to go to the benefit sent him over the edge. He stopped in front of his office door and stared at her "My fault? You think all this is my fault?" he growled. He opened his office door then stopped "Look at you avoiding responsibility. Congrats, you're finally good at something." He snapped. "I'll be in class shortly, anyone leaves and they fail." he muttered slamming his office door.


About five minutes into class, Professor Black was still nowhere to be seen. One student got up to leave and as he reached the door it swung open "Going somewhere Mr. Peterson?" Black called out as he sauntered to the front of the classroom. "N-No sir. Just back to my seat." the student stammered. Slamming his books down on the desk in front of the class and the sat on the edge of it staring into the classroom, coffee mug in hand. "So I had an epiphany about 5 minutes ago. I'm tired of some of your attitudes." He brought his mug to his lips and stared out over the rim at Victoria. He brought the mug back down "Specifically one of you and because of that person you all get to watch a movie today." He stood up and went over to the computer and began setting the movie up. "But wait there's more!" He yelled mockingly, "You also get to write a 10 page paper on this movie." He looked out to the class.


The title screen flashed 'Phantom of the Opera'. There was a couple of groans from some of the guys. "This is obviously the film version of the ever popular, Phantom of the Opera. Watch the movie, write 10 pages, hand it in by next class." He grabbed his books and began walking towards the door. "Also, you can all thank Victoria Greene for the assignment." he stated as he pushed the door open and exited the classroom. He made his way back to his office and pulled out his lunch and began grading papers. If she wanted to start placing blame, he could give it right back. He groaned thinking about the masquerade, he had plenty of suits but he had to find a mask. He stopped grading and decided to look online for a mask. He stared at the computer screen, eating a sandwich with one hand and scrolling through masks with the other.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

"Also, you can all thank Victoria Greene for the assignment." The class collectively groans as soon as he is out of earshot. Victoria whips around and raises both her middle fingers to the door of the classroom. "Asshole." She slumps in her seat of the movie begins to roll, muttering "I hate him" over and over to herself throughout the entire thing. She finds herself staring out the window about halfway through the movie. How could anyone believe that that narcissistic douche did anything for the benefit of anyone but himself? The sounds of the movie blurred into background noise of her thoughts.


I'll have to do some last minute shopping. Let's see... The charity event starts at eight? And, I'm sure Pierce will want me there early. So, I'll get there at 7:30 and spend the rest of the night avoiding Black. I don't need him critiquing me on my hairstyle or choice of mask or... She lets out an audible groan and is shushed by another students. And, I have to write a stupid paper. Great. This is going to be a lovely night. Victoria idly twirls a strand of her brunette hair around her index finger, watching the clock tick ever so slowly. Just a few more minutes and she'd be free of Black. Until tonight at least.

 

[shygirl3]

Just as the credits began rolling Professor Black came strolling through the doors. "Class dismissed." he snapped as he walked over to the computer. He pulled the disk out, placing it back into the case and leaving the room again promptly. He went back into his office where he spent most of his time. Bradley found his colleagues to be annoying and frankly a waste of valuable time. He looked at the clock and began planning out times and when he has to leave his house by to arrive at the school on time. His last class of the day was finished at 3:30 in the afternoon. Black returned to his office, packed his things, picked up a mask and headed back to his apartment. He showered, dressed, and stared into the mirror holding the mask in his hand. He brought it to his face and tied it around. It'll do.


He walked down to his car deciding it'd be best to drive without the mask on. Bradley parked the car and mad his was towards the event. He slid the mask back on and strolled up the sidewalk towards the event. Black caught glimpse of his reflection nodded in approval of his appearance, You still got it Black, he thought to himself as he fixed his tie. He walked up to the doors and found Dean Pierce. "Pleased to see you made it, Bradley." Black replied with his usual sarcasm "I wouldn't have missed it for the world." Bradley went to walk in and Dean Pierce held up his hand.


Black backed up briefly and gave him a confused look. Pierce spoke, "I'd like you to keep the sarcasm to a minimum tonight." Bradley put his hand to his chest, "Me sarcastic? I'm offended." he said sarcastically. "Black..." Pierce said cautioning him. Black walked in and looked around, it was going to be as bad as he expected. He wasn't overly pleased of the idea of spending the night with Victoria, but there was really no point in arguing further, he was already here after all. He wondered how long he could take being in that girl's presence before she pushed his patience to the breaking point.

Spoiler

(also, pretend it has a matching black pocket square)

 

[RealisticFantasy]

Victoria glares at Black as he enters and exits the room. Letting out yet another sigh, she collects her things and heads for the door. As she strides down the hallway and back to her dorm, she pulls out her phone and calls her cousin. "Anna? Hey, it's... Tori." She cringes a bit at the childhood nickname. "I was wondering if I could stop by and borrow the dress you wore for Aunt Mimi's wedding? I need it for a last minute... thing." As soon as she gets a yes, she hangs up to avoid Anna hounding her for details. She really wanted to put off the thoughts of spending the entire night with Black for as long as possible.




One hour until the charity event. Victoria drops onto her bed with a groan. One measly hour left of not wanting to maim myself or others. Namely, Black. Even the thought of his name made her sick. All she would have to do is power through tonight and maybe, maybe Pierce will leave her alone. It wasn't her fault after all. She tried to behave, but he... He just pushes her much too far.


She sits up and catches a glimpse of herself in the mirror. "Well, that just won't do." She says to herself and grabs her makeup bag off her desk. After a whirlwind of eye shadow, cover up, lipstick, she pulls her hair back into a bun. "Much better. Now to run over to Anna's and grab that dress. And, don't forget to pick up the most important part - the mask!" She swipes her car keys off her desk and heads out to her car. She races over to Anna's and changes into the dress there and stops at a high-end year-round Halloween store for the mask. She finds one to her liking, pays for it, and leaves with time to spare.


Mask in hand, she approaches Pierce. Pierce was a stout gentlemen who reminded her of a pig for some reason she couldn't put her finger on, not that she would ever say that to his face. "Ms. Greene! So lovely that you managed to make it. And, early, too! I guess miracles do happen. Go on. Black's already inside." She rolls her eyes with a small smirk as she puts on her mask. "Between the two of you, I'll be aching from laughing..." He gives her a look, "And, do please behave yourself for the benefit of us all." Victoria lets out a chuckle as she enters the door to the room where they were holding the event, turning back to say to Pierce, "Me? Misbehave? I wouldn't dream of it!"

Spoiler

 

[shygirl3]

On his second scan of the room, Black made eye contact with the most beautiful thing he had ever seen...the bar. Fingers crossed it's not a cash bar. He walked in and to his pleasant surprise it was an open bar, maybe he could survive this night after all. He ordered himself a scotch, neat of course, and leaned against the bar with sigh and sipped his beverage. A couple of colleagues came up and spoke with him, surprised he was here, he gave them the same sarcastic response "I just love helping this school get even more money then it already has." He kept his eyes scanning the room for glimmer of some sort of entertainment.


Bradley's eyes went to the clock and mentally groaned at the fact that it was barely even 8 yet. He was going to need more liquor. Black had spotted a table with food, he'd be making frequent trips between the food and the bar. The DJ announced the dance floor was open and people should grab the closest person next to them and escort them to the dance floor. Bradley scoffed at the idea, he was not going to be dancing with anyone tonight. That was all changed when a spotlight shined on him, he shaded his eyes from the glare. "You with the phantom mask, time to find you a dance partner." The spotlight moved to a girl who was wearing a long ball gown with black accents and sleeves. Her mask was metal and didn't do the best job of covering her face, but he still couldn't put a finger on who she was.


Professor Black downed the rest of his scotch "Eh, what the hell." he muttered to himself and walked towards the girl. He held his hand out "Look, we're being called out, just take my hand, one dance. It'll be over soon." he said quietly to her and waited for her to grab his hand so he could escort her out to the dance floor. Bradley was a pretty decent dancer, but the last thing he wanted was for all his colleagues to know and they'd give him flack for it. On the other hand, he couldn't humiliate himself and the girl by dancing badly. He decided he was going to give this girl the best dance of her life then go get drunk off of whatever the bartender would give him.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

Something about dancing. Yeah, right. She hadn't danced since middle school. Mind you, she was damn good at it. She just didn't feel at all like getting paired up with some stiff who could count money than he could count the fingers on his hand. Fate was an absolute bitch, though. A spotlight fell on her and she squints at the sudden transition. Then, a gentlemen approached her and offered his hand. She could only make out his silhouette but his voice had a strange familiarity to it. "Look, we're being called out, just take my hand, one dance. It'll be over soon." She hesitates before taking his hand gingerly, "Ah, and I was so looking forward to getting drunk of my ass and avoiding all social interaction. Guess you ruined that idea" she says playfully as she steps closer to the presumed stranger.


There was no way in hell she would find Black on the dance floor so maybe this was the best way to avoid him. Dancing and champagne. Lots and lots of champagne. The stranger's cologne swirls around her, yet another sign of familiarity she couldn't place. There was plenty of faculty that were forced to come along with her and Black so maybe it was one of them. It didn't help that she couldn't make out his features. She shuts one eye slowly and then the other. "I think I've gone blind," she jokes as she offers her most dazzling smile. Even if he wasn't faculty, she'd have to charm the pants off of him for a donation. Well, not literally.

 

[shygirl3]

He heard her say "Ah, and I was so looking forward to getting drunk of my ass and avoiding all social interaction. Guess you ruined that idea", he gave her a cunning smirk "Looks like we had the same plan for this evening." he said huskily as he whisked her away to the dance floor. The music began playing, he took a deep breath full of reluctance and wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her close to him. He started leading the girl around the floor. He hadn't danced with a girl in who knows how long, but it was like second nature to him. He let go of one off her hands twirled her as he walked along side her, then grabbing her and gracefully pulling her back in hold. Something about this girl was alluring, charming almost, and everything around him faded into a blur.


The music stopped and he slowed down to a stop. "See, wasn't so bad." he whispered. There was an applause and he looked up to see everyone has cleared the dance floor and it was just the two of them. "fuck me." he muttered as he ran a hand through his hair and quickly stormed off the dance floor. He was never going to live this down with his peers. Black knew it wasn't the most polite thing to do, leaving the lady stranded but he wasn't about to get all this attention. The DJ tried calling him back, but Bradley just ignored him and headed straight for the bar. He asked for a double and downed it right away. He saw Pierce watching him from a far and instead of ordering another, he got a water and went to hide out in the lobby.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

Exhilarating. The dance was absolute exhilarating. Who knew anybody is this room had an ounce of talent in them? Pressed close against a handsome stranger, spinning around without a care in the world. It was like a romantic movie. That was until she got stranded in the center of the dance floor. No name, no thanks, nothing. Left standing there, looking stupidly after the man as the applause died down at the sight. Time for a little improvisation, I suppose. She stretches her dress out in a polite curtsy as she rekindles the applause, acting as though the entire performance was planned.


After her quick recovery, she heads toward the bar. She orders a glass of champagne and chats with some of the benefactors that approach her about the dance. She again acts as if it were all planned and praises Whitehill for their wonderful programs, blah blah blah. She finally gets a break from the questions and chatting and decides to follow her dance partner's route. She walks out into the lobby and, with a quick scan of the area, doesn't see him. She walks over to the large, grandiose windows, leaning against one. She idly sips her champagne, enjoying the cool glass and the view of the brightly lit city. No sign of Black so far and the night was going just fine.

 

[shygirl3]

Bradley walked out of the men's room and froze when he spotted her leaning over by the window. He quickly put his mask down back over his face and walked over towards her. Black stood near her and cleared his throat as he ran his hand through his hair, "I uh just wanted to apologize about before...I don't do well with..." he paused trying to find the right word "attention." He softly grabbed her hand and lifted it to his lips, kissing the top of her hand. As he did that he lifted his mask slightly so it was it the way, but still kept his face covered. Black straightened back up lowering her hand, "so this is me thanking you for the dance." He said formally.


Professor Black took a step back and stuck is hands in his pockets, "Well I didn't mean to intrude on your...champagne time. I just didn't want you to think of me as some asshole, I'm actually quite the gentleman." he said giving her a small smirk. "I'll leave you alone now." Bradley backed away from Victoria. "If you want another dance, I'm sure they wouldn't mind another show in there." Black turned and walked back inside. Pierce spotted him and patted his shoulder walking past him "you just earned this school a nice chuck of change. Keep it up twinkle toes." Bradley groaned, just what he didn't want, a nickname. Time for him to hit the bar.


"Miss. Greene" Dean Pierce boomed as he walked into the lobby, "fantastic job in there. This money will go a long way, I knew I chose the right girl for the job." he said as he patted her back and walked over to a group of men on the other side of the lobby. Back in the ball room, Bradley was chatting up some blonde girl who was a couple of sheets into the wind and was getting a little handsy, not that he minded all that much, but he was at a work function. He found out she was a wealthy benefactor and decided to make the best of it. Black shamelessly flirted with the woman and she handed over a check. He stuck it in his pocket and made the mental note to hand it over to Pierce.


The woman kept downing drink after drink, she was getting pretty drunk. She didn't look too good, Bradley took her out of the main ballroom and into the lobby. She turned to him and went to speak, but instead of words coming out something else did instead. He felt her vomit on his shoes and the bottom of his pants. He handed her his monogrammed handkerchief, walked over to Pierce, handed him the check, mumbled "I'm leaving, and stormed out. He had never been puked on before and it was far from a pleasant experience. The woman chased after him to apologize, but stopped and diverted back towards the bathroom, dropping the handkerchief. Bradley took his shoes off, dropping them in a nearby trash can. There was no way he would ever wear those shoes again, he'd rather drive home in his socks. He stared at the hem of his pants, more vomit. He groaned and gingerly rolled his pant legs up, being careful not to touch it. He got into his car and drove off.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

Victoria turns around at the polite cough and a smiles spreads across her face at the sight of her dance partner. "I uh just wanted to apologize about before...I don't do well with..." A hesitation. "...attention." She smiles with a small nod of acknowledgement. "No worries. I'll have you know I'm quite the master of improvisation." Her cheeks burn a bit hotter as he plants a gentle kiss to her hand. He continues on about being a gentleman. But, as he retreats back to the celebration, he says, "If you want another dance, I'm sure they wouldn't mind another show in there." She laughs lightly, turning back to the window with a soft mumble of, "I might have to take you up on that offer..."


Moments later, the familiar voice of Dean Pierce breaks the silence of the lobby. "Fantastic job in there. This money will go a long way, I knew I chose the right girl for the job." As he pats her back, she smiles embarrassedly. "It was, uh, nothing really. It's all in the leading..." Dean Pierce laughs knowingly as he continues on his way to a group of gentlemen. Yet again, Victoria was left in the silence of the lobby, sipping her champagne and overlooking the town. The thoughts crosses her mind of finding out just who the masked gentlemen was but her thoughts are disrupted by the sound of loud chatter and a familiar voice. She looks over her shoulder at her dance partner and a blonde, no formality between their encounter. Hmmp. Figures that the only one worth any interest isn't interested in me at all. Lady Luck was fickle, wasn't she?


The chatter ceases for a moment and the silence is replaced by the horrid sound of retching. She glances back in the couple's direction with a wince. Being a college student, she unfortunately was all too familiar with similar situations. She watches the stranger storm out, as any sane person would, and decides to follow his lead. "Lovely event, but I'm afraid I'll be taking my leave. I have a thrilling ten page essay to write," she says to Dean Pierce. He waves her off with a shake of his head. She pushes open the door off the building and is greeted by a cool breeze. With her champagne still in hand, she decides to sit on the stairs of the grand building for a moment before heading home.

 

[shygirl3]

Bradley drove home disgusted by what had just happened to him. On the bright side he didn't even say a word to Victoria, or so he thought. He showered and graded papers before falling asleep. The next morning, he completed his morning routine as usual, and made his way to the campus. He grabbed all the things in his back seat and walked to his office. He went to unlock his door and his mask happened to fall on the ground. Black picked it up and put it on a shelf in his office, a phantom of the opera mask was fitting decoration in a film professor's office, despite being the wrong color. He started his coffee machine, as he sat back massaging his temples, he was not ready to grade those 10 page papers he assigned.


Professor Black was walking back from his class and he spotted Dean Pierce and gave him a slight nod. "Bradley, a word?" Black turned around, books tucked under one arm and his coffee mug in the other. "First, lay off the caffeine it's going to kill you." Pierce said "This one's decaf, I'm fine." Bradley said with a small smirk as he took a sip. "Second, the young lady from last night wanted me to apologize to you about the mishap." Bradley's first thought when he said young lady was his alluring dance partner, he had wished he stayed to catch her name, but upon hearing the apology he realized it was the one who ruined his shoes. He didn't comment "are we done? Cau-" Pierce cut him off, finishing his sentence for him "you're a busy man. Yes, I know. Go on." Pierce dismissed him and Bradley continued on his way. Now if only he could get through the day without having snide remarks from Miss. Greene, his day would be perfect, but that was highly unlikely.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

After returning back to her dorm, she realizes she is much too tired to even attempt writing her ten page essay. Screw it. I'm in an alright mood after tonight. She changes out of her dress and tosses her mask onto her desk, willing to pay the consequences of not writing the essay. She wakes up the next morning and prepares for class before heading off to face the dreaded Professor Black. At least, I managed to avoid him last night. She walks into the classroom, examining the nearly empty array of desks. She drops into one by the windows with a small smile as the thought of her mysterious dance partner crosses her mind.


There was still a couple minutes before class so she decides to pull out her phone and check her emails. Miss Greene, due to your outstanding performance at the Whitehill Charity Event, many of our most valued benefactors have requested that you and Prof. Black perform in a showcase of Whitehill talent, namely a dance between the two of you. Surely, this won't be an issue. (And, it's not optional) ...Your favorite Dean, Dean Pierce. Victoria stares blankly at the email. Dance? With Black? The thought of the inevitable proximity of their bodies made her dizzy and nauseous. She so eagerly awaited Black's response to his similarly worded email as she slipped her phone back into her pocket.

 

[shygirl3]

Just before Black stood up from his desk to head to his class, there was an e-mail from Dean Pierce, can this man ever leave me alone? Black's jaw dropped upon reading the e-mail. "No..." he whispered. He looked up at the clock, he didn't have time to go speak with the Dean and he never cancels class, so the Dean will have to wait. Bradley began his walk to the classroom, he was distracted by the e-mail and forgot his materials for class. Black open the class room door and strolled in, but he didn't have his strong demeanor as normal, this e-mail was really throwing him off. She couldn't be...





He walked in without a word and turned towards the board, writing notes. He turned back around to face the class and went to go grab his books, no seeing them he looked around wondering if he placed them somewhere else. Black was definitely not himself right now. He began to lecture and he had to correct himself multiple times, which he had never done before. His lectures were always spot on, with never having an error, guess there's a first time for everything. Bradley couldn't even bring himself to look in Victoria's direction. Black felt himself floundering, it was embarrassing. He looked over at the clock, he still had half a class to go, he dropped the chalk into the tray. "Class dismissed. Drop your papers off, read the chapters." he muttered not facing the class.


There was confused glances shared among students, this was a shock for all. Black kept his back turned to the class as he began slowly erasing the board. He just went a whole class without a sarcastic remark, and insulting comment, he messed of multiple times, and he let them go early. This wasn't him at all. His mind had been on the e-mail the whole time.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

Most of the class scurries out of the room before Black has a chance to change his mind. Victoria purposely drags out collecting her things before walking over to his desk. She drums her fingers along the edge of it, she says "Hey" with her usual amount of sharpness and sarcasm, but, as soon as she sees the last student retreat, her voices softens. "I, uh, I don't have my paper." She offers a small shrug as she looks away from him. She gives him a small wave and turns to head for the door. She pauses in the doorway, thinking about it for a moment before spinning on her heels and coming back over to his desk. "Are you... okay?" Concern? Was she having genuine concern for the man that she hated the majority of her college career?


Something in her personality changed when she saw him acting entirely different. Sure, it was easy to dish out what was given to her. But, today something seemed... off. She refuses to meet his gaze, running her fingers along the desk absentmindedly. "So, uh, that dance? I know it's inevitable so might as well not fight, right?" She chuckles awkwardly, glancing out the window. "If you want to practice or work out a routine or something, just, uh..." She twirls a strand of her hair around her finger and bites her lip. "Just tell me when, okay?" She hesitates a moment and scratches the back of her neck. "So, uh... yeah." She turns and heads back toward the door, silently cursing herself for looking like such an idiot in front of him.

 

[shygirl3]

Black was absentmindedly erasing the board when he heard that all too familiar, sarcastic voice. He slammed the eraser down and turned to look at her. "If you want the zero that's your choice." He muttered as he began collecting the papers that were sloppily piled on the desk. "Are you...okay?" her words rang through his ears. Did she really just ask me that? He ignored her question and tucked the papers under his arm. "On the contrary Miss. Greene. I plan on fighting to the death." he stated distantly. "It's extremely unprofessional for me to dance with a student." He responded curtly.


He followed her out of the door. "So the rehearsals won't be necessary." he stated dryly as he walked. As he felt himself gaining control over the situation, his old self began to return. He began to walk away, "Miss. Greene, I couldn't help but notice but it sounded as if you wanted to dance with me." he commented arrogantly. "Keep control of your...urges." He said with a cocky smirk before turning and walking towards the Dean's office to argue over this dance thing.


Bradley barged into Pierce's office "is this some sick joke? Do you enjoy humiliating me in front of my colleagues? Do you want me to lose all respect with some....some child on my arm?!" He yelled, the vein is his neck popping out slightly. Everyone in the lobby paused hearing another one of Black's famous meltdowns. His yelling continued, "Do you not realize how inappropriate it is for this to happen?!" Pierce sat at his desk remaining quiet. Black stood there his face red, fist clenched, and blood pressure through the roof. "Are you done?" Pierce asked. Bradley glared "for now." Pierce nodded "good, I rented out the dance studio in the recreation center here on campus for you two to practice. I'll be there and I expect you to be there as well." Black ran his hand through his hair, did this man not listen to anything I just said. Black turned and stormed out of Pierce's office. A couple of students in the lobby, one being Allison, of the office had recorded his yelling and a video of him storming out. She sent the recording to Victoria saying: I hope you already had him for the day because his is furious.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

"Miss. Greene, I couldn't help but notice but it sounded as if you wanted to dance with me. Keep control of your...urges." She shakes her head as she walks in the opposite direction of him. "Right... Of course." She really wasn't in the mood to bicker with him. She bites her lips as she walks down the wall, her arms crossed over her chest. And, this is what I get for concern. I'm beginning to be reminded why I hate him in the first place. Then, Allison sends her the recording. She slips into a small alcove of the hallway to listen to it with a sigh. Great. I get to dance with that. She sends a quick text back to her: Already had him. Doesn't mean he won't still be pissed for 'rehearsal.' Whatevs, totes over it.


An unfamiliar emotional numbness had seemed to envelope her. She had never texted Allison about Black without some sarcastic comment or joke and now, she found herself not even caring. She decides that he can fight it all she wants, but she rather just get it done and over with. Maybe she'd be able to switch out of his class if she just goes along with Pierce's plan... She stops by her dorm after her other class and changes into a simple dance outfit. Heading over to the studio, early enough for her to start stretching. When Pierce comes in, she walks over to him to discuss a... compromise.


Much later, when Black finally decides to show up, Victoria tosses a mask at him as she walks over toward him. "Catch. I heard about your... concerns and I already talked to Pierce. You can wear this throughout the entire performance and your name won't be featured in the program. No one will know it's you but me and him. It's the best you're going to get." She pauses, glancing over to Pierce then back to Black. "I just don't want to hear you bitch and moan the entire time. You can thank me later." She adds smugly, deciding to not give off the impression that she actually cares about his interests. She walks back over to the other side of the room to continue her stretches, letting Black decide what he wants to do with the new deal.

Spoiler

 

[shygirl3]

Black had planned on skipping the rehearsals, he was walking to his car when he got a message from Pierce warning him against skipping. he threw his stuff in the car and walked back towards the dance studio. He didn't even know where the dance studio was, however he managed to find it fairly quickly. Bradley had barely made it through the door before a mask was thrown at him. She already started, he was guaranteed to lose it with her before the end of this rehearsal. He walked in, his shoes clicking against the hardwood floor, he stopped and looked down as almost disgusted by the noise. He looked back up to her, he was already so over this rehearsal.


He placed the mask on the ground and looked from Pierce to her. "This is fucking ridiculous. " he muttered rolling up the sleeves of his shirt. He leaned back against the wall as Victoria was stretching. He was staring at his reflection in the mirror the lined the front of the room. Finally he waited long enough "Holy shit. You're ballroom dancing, not running a marathon. You'll be fine." he snapped. He walked to the middle of the room, and stood there waiting for her.


Pierce walked up to Bradley "what's your experience of dancing?" Black ran his hand through his hair "Let's just say you name the dance and I can do it." His mother had put him through ballroom dance lessons starting in middle school, he had stuck with it until he began teaching, competing every once in a while. Pierce smiled "well that's promising, I think you guys should do a rhythm dance." Bradley shook his head "No. No rhythm. What's wrong with a basic waltz?" Pierce laughed "they already saw you both waltz...I think we should spice things up. Maybe a salsa or a tango?" he said eagerly. Black brought his thumb and forefinger to the bridge of his nose and groaned "Does she even know how to do latin dances?" he asked frustrated. Pierce looked over at Victoria "well if she doesn't, I'm sure she can learn...you are her teacher after all." Black was far from thrilled to be here right now.

Spoiler

 

[RealisticFantasy]

"Stretching is still important whether you're doing a simple exercise or an extended routine." She says shortly as she stands up, biting her lip. "They already saw you both waltz..." Ha! Imagining Black on the dance floor with some unsuspecting woman almost made her laugh out loud. She walks over to him and keeps her distance for as long as she can, not too keen on being chest to chest with him. "Hello? 'She' is right here and 'she' can follow as long as the leader is adequate." She meant for it to just be a statement but it came across as more as an insult to Black's dancing skills.


She steps closer to Black, her body inches away from touching his. She lowers her voice to a murmur so Pierce can't hear. "If you get a chance, I'd like to talk to you in private. And, I mean a serious adult conversation. Not childish bickering. Life would be so much easier if us two could just get along, hmm?" She raises a hand for him to take, surprised at the words that were coming out of her own mouth. Two days ago, she wouldn't have been caught dead in the same room alone with Black. Now, here she was, moments from pressing her body against his, feeling his heartbeat as if it were her own. She found a strange familiarity in the proximity which made her a little uncomfortable.

 

[shygirl3]

Black was looking over at Pierce and when he looked back in front of him, Victoria was practically on top of him. He was sort of taken back by her proximity. Bradley gave her a small smirk "sure." He looked at her hand and high fived it before turning to Pierce. "So what dance are we doing?" Pierce smiled "I'll leave that up to you two. I'll be in my office. Make me proud!" He said with a grin as he walked out.


Bradley turned back to Victoria "Do you have a preference?" He went over to the sound system look through the music choices "I mean I guess we could do a Latin dance...but they tend to be...on the more sexy side." He glanced back at her "not to offend you or anything, but are you capable of that?" He scratched the back of his neck "i ask because I think my 3 year old niece has the same skirt thing for her ballet class." Black put a CD in and Salsa music started playing.


He walked over to her "let's see what you got." He grabbed her hand and waist, pulling her into him. Bradley started with the basic steps, watching her seeing if she has the basic motions right.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

"My choice of exercise clothing affects my sexual appeal? Hmm, that means you were evaluating it..." She says playfully, falling into more of her masked persona as Pierce leaves the room. She lets out a deep exhale as she feels the beating of his heart against her chest. "If you don't want to do something 'sexy', we don't have to. Just some appealing dance to get Pierce off our asses." As they begin to move, Victoria follows Black's lead flawlessly. "I haven't danced for a long time, save for that charity event. I've forgotten how much I enjoy it. I didn't know you danced at all. You don't seem like the type."


Since when was conversation with Black so easy? Since when could she go a whole thirty seconds without throwing out some insult? She finds a smile to be plastered across her face as Black begins to quicken his pace and she follows in suit. "I bet you pick up women like this all the time," she jokes. There was some truth behind it, though. Nothing was more attractive then a man that knows what he's doing. Wait, did I just inadvertently call Black attractive? And, talking to him about picking up women? Who are you? You are certainly not Victoria Greene. She is not all chummy-chummy with Black.

 

[shygirl3]

Black rolled his eyes "don't flatter yourself." He commented. He was focused on the dance moves and was only partly listening to what she was saying. He looked back up at her when she mentioned the charity event "well at least you weren't called out by the DJ.." he muttered as he continued dancing picking up the pace a bit.


As they danced she made a comment about him picking up women. "Focus." He stopped and dropped his arms "your hips. They need work. You have to move them in a..." he wasn't very good at describing how to do something. He usually resorted to hands on methods but he was a little hestitant. Bradley went to go move her hips in the proper motion, but stopped. don't touch her, she's your student. He paused and decided to demonstrate instead "it's going to look weird since i don't have a women's hips, but just do what i do. It'll look better when you do it." He began moving his hips in a fluid figure 8 motion.


He stopped then looked over at her. "You try it." He said putting his hands in his back pockets, waiting for her to try it.

 

[RealisticFantasy]

"C-called out by the DJ?" The words, the idea caught her off guard and her dancing faltered. It couldn't have been Professor Black. Professor Black was rash and forceful. Her dance partner was gentlemanly and kind. And, that dance, although appropriate for a school event, was far more intimate than she ever to have thought she would've been with him, her Professor. The word was acidic in her mind and sharp on her tongue, but she forced it out anyway. "Professor...?" He carried on anyway, stopping dancing and starting to talk about hips. She watches his hand flit to her hips, but not touch them.


She lifts her gaze back to the brooding man before her with her head cocked ever so slightly to the side. "Yeah, yeah. Hips, whatever... But, you were called out by the DJ? To dance?" She took a step back, her mind reeling as she tried to process the new information and how to feel about it. "Oh... Oh. You..." She motions to him. "...Uh, I..." She motions to herself. "...Er, we..." She motions to the both of them, trying to formulate any sort of thought or sentence or something to convey. "Bradley.." She had never had the name cross her tongue but now it decides to slip out involuntarily. She had never had any desire for it to be a common word amongst their chat. But, of course, now was the best time for mistakes so they all had to be made. She shakes her head and quickly corrects herself. "Professor, I-I'm... champagne girl." That was the best she could do. She bites her lip, waiting for his response. He probably thought this was some cruel joke, but it wasn't. The only issue was her mouth and mind seemed to have stopped operating at this one simple thought.