Chapter 1

Adeline Emerson enters the crowded lecture hall, her bright green eyes scanning the space for an empty seat. She picks out one toward the back and hastens to it, long, curly red hair bouncing with every step.

She settles in, and Professor Sebastian Wellesley steeps onto the stage: a commanding presence in and of itself. His chiseled features and piercing hazel eyes seem chiseled from granite, exuding confidence and authority.

"Welcome, students, to History 301," he began, his deep voice resonating through the hall. "Our focus today will be upon the influence that the American Revolution has had on modern society."

Adeline took her notebook and pen out, her attention moved from Professor Wellesley's hands writing on the blackboard. The strong capable hands seemed to hold the weight of history.

She felt a thudding flutter in her chest, which she quickly dismissed as admiration for learning rather than anything else; after all, this professor was not just any other source of education, he was her professor.

As the lecture dragged on, Adeline found herself fascinated by Sebastian's history love, and how he was capable of spinning webs with written words. It made her even more guilty for stealing glances at him, particularly the way those black locks curled slightly at the back of his neck.

Once the lecture was over, Adeline was swept up in the younger crowd that rushed out of the hall. Barely getting close to the door, it seemed the entire world paused as she felt a gentle tap on her shoulder.

"Miss Emerson, may I have a word with you?" Professor Wellesley's voice sent shivers down her spine.

Adeline turned, feeling the quickening beat of her heart, to find that penetrating glare. "Of course, Professor."

They caught each other's gaze for a few seconds, and Adeline felt that something had already been sealed between them, that just an ignition of a match would set it alight.

Adeline followed Professor Wellesley into his office, and her heart pounded with excitement at what he might want to discuss. What could he possibly want to discuss with her?

After entering the comfortable space lined with shelves flexibly filled with dusty historic books, Sebastian gestured her to take a seat in front of his desk. Adeline sat down, her eyes wandering to the framed photographs of historical landmarks and figures.

Sebastian settled down into his plush leather chair, steepling his fingers. "Miss Emerson, I have been going through the coursework and exam results submitted by you. Quite impressive, I should say, your grasp of historical context and analytical thinking."

Adeline flushed at the praise. "Thank you, Professor."

"I am conducting a research project on the American Heritage," Sebastian explained, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I'll be doing field research at historic sites on the East Coast. I would like you to accompany me as my research assistant."

Adeline's breath caught. To spend time with Professor Wellesley while traveling to sites steeped in history? Truly, a dream comes true.

"Why me, Professor?" she quizzed, masking the racing thoughts outside her head with an attempt at coolness.

"You are my top student, Adeline. Your insights will be priceless. Besides that, it would give you an experiential learning opportunity that is quite crucial towards preparation for graduate school or a career in history."

Adeline's head was spinning. That would be the experience where she would be able to work closely with Sebastian while exploring historic sites and building her academic resume.

"When do we leave?" is what she asked, trying not to let the excitement show.

Sebastian smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We'll leave next Friday. I'll give you all the details, but be warned, it will be an intense schedule."

Eagerly nodding her head, Adeline announced, "I'm ready, Professor." Sebastian leaned closer and took on a less formal tone: "Call me Sebastian, Adeline. We will be working closely together; formalities will only hinder our progress." She found herself breathless at this new intimacy. First-name basis? Things were getting better by the minute. "I will ensure to pack accordingly," she tried to sound all professional despite the racing pulse.

Sebastian handed her a folder full of itinerary details and objectives of research. Their fingers brushed as she accepted the folder, and a thrill shot down her spine. Adeline exited the office, unable to shake the feeling that this research would mind-boggle and change her life in ways that she could not yet conceive. "Adeline is gone," Sebastian leaned back into his chair, a subtle smile spreading across his face. He could only appreciate her intelligent work ethic and her captivating presence.

Sebastian thought to himself. "She has no idea, does she? The way her eyes light up when discussing history, the way her hair curls slightly at the nape of her neck... I've tried to ignore it, but it's impossible. Adeline Emerson has captivated me." There was a knock on the door and it opened. "Not right now," Sebastian growled as he shifted position to sit in his chair, performing what seemed like an impossible effort to compose himself.

At that moment, his sister and student, Avery Wellesley, walked into the office, flinging her backpack onto the floor. "Hey, Professor—brother," Avery said with a grin, "I saw Adeline leaving your office. What's happening?" Sebastian raised an eyebrow. "Just discussing the research project, Avery. You know I've chosen her as my assistant."

Avery sighed as she settled at the desk. "Good move. She's bright. But hey, Sebastian, I've noticed how you look at her," she said.

Sebastian's brow furrowed. "Avery, hit the books and not my life."

Avery laughed. "I'm afraid I can't, bro; you're not that subtle. Besides, Adeline has been in my study group. She is awesome. You guys will work great together-- academically and otherwise."

Sebastian's eyes narrow, warning her not to go beyond.

"Avery, don't make things complex. It's professional."

Avery raised both hands. "Got it, got it. But remember, I'm your sister and student. So I know well enough, Sebastian."

With that knowing smile, Avery gathered her things and left, leaving Sebastian to consider his feelings at the blurry line between professional and personal relationships.

Avery slid against the doorframe. "Hey, Sebastian, want to grab lunch together? I mean, I still need to talk to you about my paper."

"Can't do it, Avery," Sebastian shook his head. "I have to finalize the arrangements for the research trip."

Avery raised an eyebrow. "Adeline plans?"

Sebastian's face remained flat: "Just logistics, Avery. Hotel bookings, itinerary, that sort of thing."

Avery chuckled knowingly, "Sure, bro. Keep telling yourself that."

Sebastian shot a warning look at her. "Avery, focus on your studies, not my personal life."

"Fine, you're the one not having pizza and my wonderful insights," Avery said.

Avery went out smiling while leaving Sebastian to his devices.

Sebastian had returned to his papers with Adeline and the oncoming trip running rampant through his mind. The warmth of excitement could not be denied from stirring within him.

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