#annie sinclair oc

[rainedr-p]

References of Annie!! Will likely have a character sheet soon, just haven't got around to making it.

Huge thank you to @falloutdovah , @genericdragon , and @soyarcano Azul Alvarez (whose tag I can't find 😭) for all the amazing art 💙💙

[rainedr-p]

Attempted Blackmail: Part 7

🎶B-U-S-T-E-D you are BUSTED!🎶 What will happen to Annie and Thomas now that someone knows?

Bianca stares dumbfounded at both of us entangled in Thomas's bathroom. She almost dropped her phone.

Thomas resignedly pulls away from me but doesn't let me go entirely. "What are you doing here, Bianca?"

She scoffs. "I think the bigger question is, how the hell did someone like Annie snag the hottest professor in school? That like, doesn't make any sense!"

"Well, being confused is your typical state of being, so no one here is surprised..." I can't help but mutter.

Bianca glares at me as Thomas reaches for his phone. "If you're not out of my house in the next 10 seconds, I'm calling the police."

She snaps out of her shock and waves her phone at his face. "Tsk, tsk. I don't think you wanna do that, professor. I have proof that you've been very, very naughty. If you don't do exactly what I say, I'm sending this proof to every single member of the school board, and then posting it to social media and selling it to the tabloids. I'll ruin both of you."

Sure enough, on her phone screen is a picture of Thomas and I locked in our kiss. Slightly blurry, but there's no doubt it's us. "Bianca-"

"Save it, Annie. I've already won." She begins pacing the hall in front of us. "You know, this actually explains a lot. Why you always have such good grades, why you seem to be on his good side, and why he backed you up at your probation hearing a while back."

"Really? I have good grades because I study, which I know is a foreign word to you. What gave you the impression I was on his good side until now, the glares?" At this, Thomas hides a grin. "And he backed me up then because I worked hard to prove myself. Everyone saw that."

Bianca just rolls her eyes. "Sure, Annie. Whatever makes you sound like the sweet little innocent angel everyone thinks you are."

Thomas releases me and steps toward her. "I won't say it again, Bianca. I will call the police. Get. Out." She smirks and backs away toward the foyer. "Yeah yeah, okay. But you both better be ready to give me exactly what I want, or everyone finds out about this." And with her annoying little sashay, she struts out the front door.

I collapse against the sink. "I can't believe Bianca's the one who caught us. Of all the-"

"I know. But it was only a matter of time until someone did." Thomas speaks quietly as he returns to stand in front of me. His shoulders are tensed up. I fiddle with my sleeve. "So... what do we do now?"

He bites the inside of his cheek in thought. "... I don't know. Just go about your business as usual for now. Avoid her if you can."

I nod in understanding and silently offer a hug. He quickly accepts, and we both just hold each other, wondering to ourselves if this will work out somehow. Maybe she's bluffing, or she'll get drunk and accidentally delete the photo, or... I don't know. Wishful thinking. After a few minutes, we kiss goodbye and I hesitantly head back to campus.

****************

Addison is visiting her mom this weekend, so our dorm room is quiet and lonely on this Sunday morning. I dont want to bother her, so I lie with my thoughts until she returns. When she does and sees me sulking in my bed, she throws herself next to me and squeezes my hand. Her wordless way of asking me what's wrong without rushing me.

"Ads, we've got a problem.... Bianca knows." Her brow furrows. "Knows about... wait, you and-?" I nod. She curses under her breath. "Then... what does she have planned?"

"For now, she's just holding it over our heads in the hopes to use it as blackmail. Long term, I don't know."

"Well, you're not going to let her blackmail you, are you?" I shake my head. "No, of course not. And neither will Thomas. But if word gets out..." My best friend wraps me in a tight hug at the look of worry on my face.

Whatever happens from here, at least I've got a good support system. I just hope he does, too.

*****************

The next day, Monday morning classes seem to go in slow motion. Thomas's class being my last of the day does not help ease my nerves in the slightest. But even as his class begins, I still have seen no sign of Bianca all day. It's like a jumpscare waiting to happen. But even as class goes on with Thomas and I giving nothing more than quick glances, no word from the she-devil.

Until she corners me after class right outside the classroom.

"Hello, new favorite servant. I hope you're ready to get pampering, because I am so ready to be pam-" "Bianca, whatever you're trying to do, it's not working on me. I'm not letting you blackmail either one of us." I nudge her away from where she had me pinned to the wall.

She tsks. "Oh, but you have no choice. You're getting me a coffee or you're getting a public humiliation."

"And you're minding your business or you're getting a probation, Ms. Stone." Thomas emerges from the classroom behind us. Her grin turns downright ominous as she turns toward him. "Professor Hunt, I'm so glad you could join us! You remember our deal this morning, right?"

Deal? I look between them. Thomas has his usual stern look on his face and seems completely unperturbed. "I remember. You keep that knowledge to yourself and I'll vouch for you in your academic probation hearing tomorrow." I blink. He made a deal with her to vouch for her in a hearing!?

Bianca seems to sense my shock and turns that ominous grin toward me. "Hear that, nerd? Hunt is gonna vouch for me and give me exactly what I want. So keep up. Now I'll take a venti espresso with-"

"The deal is between us, Ms. Stone. I recommend you leave Annie out of it." Thomas's voice is icy. She twists her mouth as if in thought and stares me down. Then her grin returns. "Alright, fine. I changed my mind about coffee anyways. But Annie, once this hearing is over tomorrow and everyone knows I'm Hunt's favorite student, I've got plans for you. Find me then."

As she saunters off, I turn toward Thomas with wide eyes. His hands are in white knuckling fists, but he doesn't look at me. He swallows and says under his breath, "Go back to your dorm, Annie." Then he, too, is gone.

****************

Addison and I are discussing what happened in our room when there's a knock at the door. In preparation for it being my current worst nightmare, Addison answers it. She steps back in shock. "Professor Hunt?"

"I'm assuming your friend already knows?" Thomas points at Addison. "Yes, she does, come on in." I assure him, standing as he awkwardly walks into our dorm.

He glances around the room as I carefully approach him, then give his hands a squeeze. Thomas looks cool and collected, but his hands are clammy. "We need to talk about what happened with Bianca."

I nod and look at Addison, who's already tiptoeing to our door. "Ms. Sinclair, please do not tell anyone I was here." She promises she won't and gives us our privacy.

"I know you have questions-" "A few. What deal did you make with Bianca, did you let her blackmail you? Where was she today? What's this about a hearing-?" Thomas cups my face in his hands. "Just... sit down, please. I'll explain."

We move over to sit on my bed. Which would normally excite the heck out of me, but right now all I feel is apprehension. He takes a deep breath. "Bianca cornered me at my car this morning. She made several threats at blackmail which I normally wouldn't bat an eye at, but when she started threatening you... I couldn't let her. We struck a deal that she could skip classes today with full credit and I would vouch for her in her probation hearing tomorrow morning. So long as she left you alone. Which I thought she would until I caught her this afternoon. I should have known she would go back on her word, but I was worried that something would happen to you."

I listen without getting frustrated as much as I can. I appreciate him looking out for me, but we can't give her what she wants, no matter what's at stake. I tell him as much. "Just come to the hearing tomorrow, I'll figure something out."

I give myself a minute to consider his words. Then I look him in the eyes. "I'll support you whatever you decide." His thumb idly brushes my knuckles. "Are you sure? I'm not the only one who's going to be affected by this. Your reputation is at stake, too." I smile sadly at him. "No matter what, we both have to face the consequences. As long as we're in this together, I can handle it."

Thomas returns my smile and wraps me in a tight hug. I rub his back and rest my chin on his shoulder. Despite the fact that he's willing to stand by me through all of this, I still have a pit in my stomach. "Do you.. regret this at all? Would you still want to be with me, knowing what you know now?"

Thomas pulls back and cups my face again. "Absolutely. No questions, no hesitation." I snort, "Okay, but you did hesitate at first." He doesn't laugh, though. Instead, he looks at me with this sad determination. "I once told you that I let my career ruin my first chance at love. I'm not letting regret win again. This situation with Bianca is.. unfortunate. But it definitely does not outweigh being with you, Annie. I wouldn't give up my time with you for anything."

The man in front of becomes blurry as my eyes grow watery. He wipes away the tears before they fall, and then our lips meet. The kiss is bittersweet, with all the uncertainty and fear of what our future together holds, but also the tenderness and joy that we get to be in this moment now. And now is all that matters. If this is to be my last moment with him before one or both of our careers are ruined, then I can live with that. I'll be here, with him, and continue to kiss him like it might be the last time I ever get to.

****************

It's a cold Tuesday in November. The assembly gathering together for the hearing is a relatively small one, and we all pack neatly into the room. Addison, Ethan and I take our place in the observer's section with a handful of other students. I feel better being situated between both of them, but not much.

The faculty takes their place on the stand, Thomas among them. Professor Llewellyn sits by him, shooting me an almost imperceptible wink. Thinking nothing more of it than Llewellyn being Llewellyn, we all turn our attention to Professor Priya Singh as she takes the podium. Bianca takes one of the stands in front of her, almost proudly.

"It seems that all relevant parties are here. Let's begin. Ms. Stone, which member of the faculty have you procured to vouch on your behalf?"

Oh, she is absolutely proud to be standing there. I can see the proverbial peacock feathers fanning out. "An esteemed colleague of yours, Professor Thomas Hunt!"

Priya seems a touch surprised as she addresses him. "Hunt, do you agree to speak for Ms. Stone?"

"I am here to speak about the issue at hand, namely whether Ms. Stone deserves expulsion, academic probation, or a simple warning." Bianca doesn't hide her grin as she watches him take the stand opposite her. "From the beginning, Ms. Stone has always been brimming with ambition, cunning, and self-confidence." She literally puffs out her chest. So this is his decision, huh...

"... And it's this exact reason she should be put on academic probation."

The silence in the room is resounding as he pauses for effect. Priya watches in interest as Bianca's glossy red lips drop open.

"Ms. Stone represents these attributes that could be considered positive, but she takes them to the extreme, past the point of recklessness. She can't see the potential consequences of her actions, and what's more, she doesn't care. Some people might argue that she will fit in seamlessly into the industry because of these qualities. However, she is certainly not the type of student I would want to mentor."

Bianca waves her phone at him. "Oh, and we know what type of student you do like to mentor, don't we, Professor?" She threatens. "Ms. Stone! Decorum, please." Priya shushes her.

Thomas waits for the go-ahead to continue. "Furthermore, Ms. Stone doesn't know how to work with others. Hollywood is all about making connections, but she only knows how to alienate others and ride her father's coattails."

Bianca roars. "That's it, you're doing DOWN, Hunt!" She begins furiously scrolling through her phone.

"You want further evidence of her questionable character? Look no further than what she's doing right now. She's trying to blackmail me into vouching for her today.

By exposing my relationship... with Anneka Sinclair."

My own gasp is audible with almost everyone else's in the assembly. Murmurs ripple through, and almost every eye is on me. Addison squeezes my hand. I shrink under the scrutiny, but Thomas stands tall.

Bianca is blubbering by the time Priya gets the room to settle. "... I think we've heard enough. Blackmail is a very serious offense, Ms. Stone. But taking everything into account, the board will put you on probation for now. But make no mistake, you are on very thin ice. Another display like this one, and we will not hesitate to expel you. No matter who you're related to."

I can almost hear Bianca simmering from here. "You will be taking remedial lessons with myself to make up for your lacking grades, and believe me, I will not go easy on you. Otherwise..." Priya's attention is turned to Thomas and me. "The two of you will be dealt with later. For now, meeting adjourned."

Everyone begins filing out of the room, all kinds of looks being directed my way. Bianca is shoving her phone at everyone passing by. "Look, this is them! It's disgusting! Isn't this like, illegal??" No one is really paying her any mind, though, surprisingly enough. Addison and Ethan link arms with me and drag me outside before she sees me.

"Are you okay? That got pretty rough in there." Ethan moves a strand of my hair that got tangled in my braid. I shrug. "I'll be fine. Have to get used to publicity anyways, right?" He chuckles. "As your agent, the saying goes 'any publicity is good publicity', but as your friend..."

I squeeze his arm. "I know. But I'll be okay." We walk a bit from the building before we spot Thomas under a tree, hands in his pockets and his eyes off in the distance.

"So." I say as we approach, my friends releasing me to get closer to him. "So." He returns.

"Everyone knows now..." I shrug awkwardly. My face is burning hot in the chilly weather. He chuckles. "Maybe not everyone, but they will soon. Who knows what inane hashtag Jenni will come up with." We all laugh.

"And... you're okay?" I approach him a little closer. He reaches for my hand. "Nervous, I'll admit. But relieved it's out on my own terms. On our own terms."

I smile. "Agreed. So what happens from here?"

He takes a deep breath. "I assume I'll be hearing from Priya soon about our own hearing. I'm not clear on whether or not this is necessarily illegal, but it is most certainly against University bylaws. Who knows what the consequences will be."

I bite my lip nervously. Ethan interjects, "If I may, I can help read the terms and see what we're working with here. But you two better come up with one hell of a love story."

I blush at that word again, and Thomas squeezes my hand tighter. "Already on it."

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie and Llewellyn belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!)

[rainedr-p]

Drive Me Crazy: Part 6

They've already dodged a close call once. Surely it can't get much more perilous than that... right?

Acting like I'm not in a student-teacher relationship is easier than I thought. Which, sounds really bad now that I've said it aloud. But Thomas is still his grumpy self in class, paying me not much more mind than normal, but the flirty texts we send say otherwise. Addison is helping us appear normal too.

In fact, we even have another date planned this weekend. Drive-in movie! Ads has promised to help with a "disguise" so I don't get recognized. Maybe one day I won't have to wear one, but today is not that day.

At the end of class, I head over to Thomas's office for his office hours. I actually do have a class-related question. However, to my surprise, he already has a student in here.

"You're obviously embarrassed and ashamed by this fling of yours, and believe me, having seen the picture, I can see why." Bianca's snooty voice could be considered harassment to anyone. She has a hand on her hip and is shoving her phone in Thomas's face, which looks like a mosquito is squealing in his ear. Actually, the term mosquito fits her well. "Bianca, do you have a point to all this? Or are you just going to accuse me of nonsense all day? You're forming a line." He nods at me awkwardly standing in the doorway. Bianca scoffs at me. "Wait your turn, nerd." I ignore her and walk to stand in the side of the office, pretending to look at my phone. Her attention returns to him with an eyeroll. "I know why you don't want anyone to know about your girlfriend, and it's pretty obvious why." Thomas blinks slowly at her. "And why is that?" She smirks. "She's a student, isn't she?"

The only reaction either of us show is I grip my phone a smidge tighter. Thomas stays perfectly neutral. "And what ever gave you this delusion, Ms. Stone?" "You wouldn't be going to so much trouble to flee the scene and hide your date without a good reason. And breaking University bylaws is a pretty good reason, Professor." She sneers. "So here's what you're going to do. You're going to change my grade on that assignment to an 'A'." "Ms. Stone-" "I'm not done yet. I'm not going to do anymore work this semester, but you're going to give me the top grade of the class anyways. Gotta make my dad proud and all. Are we clear?" She finishes by crossing her arms.

Thomas patiently leans forward on his desk, clasping his hands together. "Who I see or do not see in my private life is none of your business. I did not 'flee the scene' as I'm sure your flighty friend so exaggerated. But I did not want to spend my off time in the company of my students, so I simply left. Regardless, I don't hand out grades to students who don't deserve them." Bianca angrily sighs. "You're too stubborn for your own good. But if I catch you in the act, you'll lose everything." "Yes, yes, you've got me shaking. Now get out before I finally report you for attempted blackmailing." He glares up at her. Bianca is fuming by the time she storms out of his office, slamming the door behind her.

Thomas sighs as I cautiously approach his desk. "Are you okay? I know she can be a lot to deal with..." He chuckles dryly. "Understatement. But I'm fine, just annoyed." I nod in agreement. "You know, it's not too late to change your mind, if you think this is too risky. Especially with Bianca now involved." I explain, half-teasing. "I already told you, I'm all in. We just need to be careful around her. And as much I love seeing you, you can't waltz into my office all the time." He smirks. "OH! Right, I did actually have a question about the upcoming project..."

**************

The weekend fast approaches, and I stare at the stranger in the mirror. My peachy blonde hair has been replaced with a glossy brunette wig, and my features have been contoured to make me completely unfamiliar. Cherry red lipstick (not my color) and trendy sunglasses complete my disguise. I nod at Addison in approval. "Sorry, who are you?" She teases. I laugh and gather my things. "Now just to add an accent and voila, new me!" I flourish my arms. "Just please not your French one." We both laugh as she bids me goodbye and I head out.

Thomas and I opted to meet somewhere a few minutes from campus so as not to get followed too easily. His fancy black car waits in an alley parking lot by a little hole-in-the-wall Asian restaurant. They've got great sushi. I lower my sunglasses to let him know it's me, and he leans over to open my door for me. "Your friend certainly has talent, I'll give her that." He mutters as he pulls onto the street. "She made me very Hollywood-glitzy with sharp angles and all. Think I look good?" I do a cute little pose in my seat. "It's effective, but you'll always be beautiful. Though I do miss the peach." He brushes a knuckle down the side of my face while holding a strand of the wig. I shiver. "Flatterer."

We arrive at the drive-in a little early. Few cars dot the field, and we park along the edge in the back. A precaution, I assume. I remove the sunglasses and look over at Thomas. He's so much more relaxed than normal. Today, he's wearing just a plain button down under his coat, and even his hair is slightly tousled. It's easy to forget that he's just a man too, not just a Hollywood regular. After a moment, he notices me staring. "Something wrong?" "No, nothing. Sometimes, you're just... distracting." He chuckles. "You're the distracting one, trust me. I'm very glad you opt not to sit in the front row of class." We both laugh and our hands intertwine. "We've got about 10 minutes before the film starts. So I have a question." "Sounds dangerous. Shoot." He grins. "Why acting? It's a very competitive market, and you have a lot of talent behind the camera as well. So why not focus on that?"

I think for a minute. It's a very, very long story. I tell him as such. "The short version... I love it. Not to trauma dump or anything, but I've spent a large portion of my life wishing I was anyone else. When I got to act in plays in middle school and beyond, I found I could do just that. Then it moved to short films in high school and community college, and then my first role as an extra here in Hollywood prompted me to move here, and... here I am." I smile. "I act now because I love it and I'm good at it. Now before you start on the whole insecurity speech again, I'm okay. I'm human. We all have insecurities, it's about how we handle them. And if you surround yourself with people that see past them and love you for who you are, that's what matters."

Thomas's eyes are glimmering by the time I finish. His smile is gentle, like he's proud of me. My breath catches slightly as his hand cups my cheek and he pulls me in for a kiss. The kiss is long and sweet, no hurry or heat behind it. His forehead rests on mine after a moment. "I teach people how to direct movies, write scripts, and even how to correctly act out scenes. But that bravery, that strength to fight your own inner demons and win... that's something I could never teach. You are amazing."

Now I quickly wipe at my eyes to keep tears from ruining my makeup. We laugh and he hands me a handkerchief he keeps handy. After we compose ourselves, we start a more cheerful conversation, and a few minutes later, the movie starts.

Credits for a movie called Prominence starts. Thomas idly brushes his thumb over my hand, completely enthralled by the screen. "You really love this movie, huh?" I ask quietly. "Oh, yes. It has some of the best dialogue you'll ever hear in a science fiction film, and the cinematography is stunning. North knows how to compose a shot." Thomas starts pointing out producers he's worked with, comments on the camera angles, and whispers about the alternate versions of the opening the director considered. We start talking shop about cameras and watch for a little bit.

A few minutes go by, then a flash of light shines down the row that we're in. Even in the dark, I can see that bleached blonde hair a mile away. "Crap, it's Jenni and Lance! They're looking in everyone's cars." Thomas grunts. "Bianca must've seen the flyer in my office. If we try to leave now, the car will be too loud and distracting." I think for a moment. "Surely the workers have noticed people disturbing the movie. Wait here."

Thomas starts to protest, but I slide as quietly from the car as I can, heading for the concession stand. Jenni and Lance don't notice and continue flashing lights in people's cars. Muffled groans of complaints sound one after another. Sure enough, a worker lumbers from the back of the building. "Hey, there's a couple people that keep flashing lights in our cars, it's disturbing all of us trying to watch the movie." I point to Bianca's friend and boyfriend, who are just two cars away from Thomas's. The worker nods and makes his way to them just as they reach his car.

Some arguing and whining later, the duo is escorted off the premises. If they saw Thomas, they would have seen him by himself. I breathe a sigh of relief after I wait a moment to get back into the car. "Another close call. Apologies you had to miss some of the movie." Thomas reclaims my hand. I shrug. "You can always catch me up later."

***********

We somehow manage to survive the rest of the movie without anymore interruptions. Well, aside from Thomas and I whispering to each other occasionally. And maybe sneaking a couple of kisses. We start filing out with the rest of the vehicles as the credits roll. "Think we're safe now? I'd very much like to get out of this disguise. The wig is kinda itchy." I fiddle with the thick brunette strands. "Hopefully. We can go back to my place to finish the night so you can wipe off the makeup, as well. Just be careful when you leave."

There are no cars parked at or around his house, so it seems we're in the clear. We still enter the front door quickly to be safe. Thomas's house is different this time, warmer. Far more welcoming. He leads me to the bathroom where I immediately snatch off the wig and get to work on wiping the makeup off. "Never thought I'd get to come back here, again. At least, not as more than a student." Thomas stands behind me and untangles my hair from where the wig snagged it. "No, you are much more than that now. And I like it much better that way." He kisses behind my ear and holds me from behind. My face heats up and I smile as I wipe away what I think is the last of the foundation. He lets me go long enough to dispose of the wipes before I turn to face him.

"What... what would actually happen if we were caught? Is it better to ask for forgiveness than permission or-" He puts a finger to my lips. "We're not going to worry about that right now. We will find a way to make this work, no matter what happens. That I can promise you, Annie." When I look in his eyes, they're full of this fierce determination. And I believe him. As his hands slide down to my waist and his lips meet mine, I have this warm feeling that he's right. Everything is going to be okay.

And then my heart drops as I hear quick footsteps and camera clicks.

"HA! Caught you red-handed!" Bianca grins triumphantly as she corners us in the bathroom. Even if there were time to, there's nowhere for me to hide. And as I make eye contact with her, and her eyes widen in recognition, I know we're screwed.

"ANNIE!?"

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!)

[rainedr-p]

A Chance: Part 5

Hunt decides to be brave. Annie isn't complaining. But will someone else?

Am I dreaming? Pretty sure the bump on my head knocked me out and I'm dreaming. But Hunt's head nuzzled onto my shoulder feels very real. Which can't be right, right? Has to be a dream. Albeit a very good one. And he called me his weakness. Which I can only interpret as he has feelings for me, too. Best dream ever???

But the thing about dreams is, you can't feel physical pain, which is where the term "pinch me, I must be dreaming!" came from. And my head and face hurt. A lot. I smile at the realization that I'm very much awake and take my opportunity to hold him, too. So we sit here for a while. He seems in no hurry, and neither am I.

Eventually, Hunt does pull himself away from me and holds my hands. "Can you keep a secret?" he asks softly. I nod. "Good. Because if we're going to do this, I want to do it properly. Which will require some... discretion." I tilt my head, which causes a brief dizzy spell. I pick up the ice pack I dropped and return it to the back of my head. "Going to do... what exactly?" "Dinner, movie, drinks, the whole nine yards." "I... are you saying what I think you're saying?" He grins. "I'm saying to hell with it. I'm taking you out on a real date. That is, if you still want to."

I beam at him. "Yes, of course! I just... I didn't want to hope too much, you know?" I quickly wipe away a tear that threatens to fall. Hunt takes my hand back and squeezes it, a hint of regret in his eyes. "I know. And I'm sorry for how I've been treating you. Pushing you away so harshly. But I'm ready to take a risk, if you'll have me."

I move my hand to his cheek. He leans into the touch. "You're forgiven. But you have to be nice to me from now on." I tease. He kisses my palm and my body turns to jelly. "Deal. Now let's get you back to your dorm."

The ice pack has helped the dizziness, at least. Hunt doesn't have to half-carry me to my dorm building, but he keeps his hand on my back nonetheless. I guess he's being brave since it's dark out and no one is out except the occasional campus security guard. We stop just outside the front door. "Thank you for making sure I made it back safely." "Of course. I'm not leaving you alone while idiots like that are out." He scowls and gestures back at the bar. I squeeze the ice pack tighter. "Right, so... when are we doing this?" His tension softens. "I want this to be perfect. You deserve it. Give me a few days and I'll let you know." "Okay! I still think I'm passed out somewhere and dreaming all of this..." I mutter. He chuckles. "No, thankfully, you are safe and awake. Goodnight, Annie, I'll talk to you soon." "Goodnight." We smile at each other as he hesitantly walks away, and I slowly creep to my dorm.

Addison was half asleep, but now wide awake as she hears me opening our door. "There you are!! Okay tell me everything, let me see the pictures, how was the-" she stops and gasps when she sees my sorry state. There's wine all over the front of my grey knit dress, my face is partially swollen and there's a bandage with bruising around it under my left eye, and I'm holding an ice pack to the back of my head. But despite it all, I cannot stop smiling. "What... what happened-?" "Tomorrow." I tell her with my finger to her lips. "I'm okay. And I'll tell you everything, tomorrow." She tries to argue, but I'm already changing into my pajamas and collapsing into bed. And maybe it's a mix of my throbbing headache and giddy feelings, but I find it hard to fall asleep. Because now I can't stop thinking about how Thomas Hunt wants to take me on a date.

********

The next week, I'm packing up from my last class for the day when my phone buzzes. An unknown number texted:

My office in 10?

I can only think of one person with an office that would send a vague text like that. The question is, how did he get my number? The school database? I shrug it off and head to Hunt's office in the next building over, hoping I'm right.

And the bright look in his eyes when I poke my head in the door tells me I am. "Anneka, thank you for stopping by. Close the door." He monotones. But it's not his usual tone. I know a little hint of happy when I hear it. I have to literally force myself to keep it cool. Remember we're being discreet. "Of course, professor. What did you need to talk about?" "Your grades aren't exactly faltering, but even you could use some extra credit. So I'm offering you the chance to go on a research assignment this Saturday, 6:00pm, West Harbor." "The ferry dock? Where will I be going?" "Catalina Island. I'll email you more details about the assignment later. But... wear something nice." The corner of his mouth twitches slightly. "A research assignment on a fancy secluded island... sounds fun."

I grin, and then I can't help it. This whole thing is sounding very roleplay-like, in a type of film I would NOT star in. I cover my mouth but I can't stop the laughter. Hunt may be a better actor than me in this moment, but I see that corner twitch again. He wipes his nose to cover it. "Is something funny, Ms. Sinclair?" "No, sir, just... Ahem, excited about some extra credit. I'll be there." I give him my best professional smile and nod and exit his office.

My phone buzzes as soon as the door closes behind me.

Get your mind out of the gutter.

I burst out laughing in the hallway.

*******

Despite LA being in the middle of autumn, West Harbor Ferry Dock is only chilly because of the wind. Or I'm just shaking because of nerves.

I'm here about 20 minutes early because the ferry leaves for Catalina right at 6pm. The small crowd is already boarding, but I'm waiting on a certain someone. I check my phone a few times, but there's only texts from Addison wishing me luck and telling me not to get wine on my fancy dress. My heart is beating so fast that I take to pacing.

"Annie." I whip around. Hunt has swapped out his usual khaki blazer for a sharp black suit. We didn't even plan to match in black, but here we are. I'm in a stylish black dress with sheer sleeves and shoulders, and a bow hanging from the chest. And just like the night of the masquerade, he's not hiding the fact that he is gazing at every inch.

My heart skips a beat. "Hunt!" I stammer, unsure what to do with myself, so I just go in for a hug. He happily returns the embrace, picking me up to my tiptoes. "You can call me Thomas." He whispers. I'm blushing like mad by the time we pull apart. "Oh, okay, um... Thomas." I shyly tuck my hair behind my ear while he smiles warmly at me, his cheeks turning rosy, too.

I giggle. "I'm sorry, this is just... surreal to me. I'm excited, don't get me wrong! I think I've just forgotten how to act on a date." He chuckles and offers me his arm. "We'll figure it out together. Come, Catalina awaits."

Thomas and I find a seat by a window on the ferry. My arm is still linked through his, and I never could have imagined myself sitting this close to him. "So... a research assignment, huh?" He sighs. "You're a great actress, but you still cannot keep a straight face and at least act serious, can you?" I laugh. "I'm sorry! You know the whole thing felt weird!" I nudge him and he starts to laugh too. "Poor performance. This is why you needed extra credit." I gasp. "Did you... did you just make a joke?" He glares at me. "I'm not always a grumpy professor, you know." I can tell he is trying not to smile. "Not always. Just in public." He smirks. "Just in public."

We laugh and tease for a while, and neither one of us noticed we were basically halfway to the island already. We both watch the sun start to dip toward sunset. "So, I have to ask. How did you get my number?" I ask him. "The charity venue texted both of us at the auction, remember?" I pull up the itinerary I was texted that night. Then I recognize that third unknown number in the group as the number he's been texting me with. "So, you didn't even look at your phone that night? Just left me to look at the itinerary?" "In truth, I had another reason I didn't. I didn't want the... temptation, of having your number." He blushes. I grin. "And how's that workin' out for ya?" Thomas moves his arm to hold my hand. "Quite well, I think." And now my face is crimson.

********

We reach Catalina Island, and Thomas pulls me along with the crowd. In true professor form, he tells me a few interesting facts about the island and the little town built on it. Eventually we make our way to Hotel Vista Del Mar, where a fancy Italian restaurant is attached. Apparently the hotel is a popular venue this weekend, as guests for a wedding mill about waiting on the reception to start. Thomas and I weave through the crowd as we make our way to the restaurant.

The maitre d' greets us under a brilliant sign reading Chateau de Vin. Then we're ushered to our table with a luxurious view of the sunset. "Wow, when you go big, you go fancy." I mutter to Thomas as he pulls out my seat for me. "It's nothing less than you deserve." He smiles a smile just for me and sits in the chair the maitre d' pulls out for him.

We order our wine and food a short while later. The white wine isn't as sweet, but... "Not red wine? You always struck me as having a sweet tooth." Thomas comments. I sip and place the glass down. "I'm, uh, kind of taking a break from red wine. After the incident, at the bar." His face falls and I can tell he's looking at the tiny healing scar under my eye. Addison did a good job with my makeup, but there's only so much you can do. "Annie, I am so sorry." I smile and reach for his hand. "Will you quit apologizing? If that's the moment that led us to this one, then I would happily relive it over and over again."

Thomas's eyes widen for just a moment, and he smiles sadly, brushing his thumb over my knuckles. "You... reminded me of someone just now." "Oh? Who?" His gaze turns to the sunset. "...Yvonne." He's never mentioned Yvonne before. I know it's stupid to have a twinge of jealousy, but how sadly he's looking out that window...

His gaze returns to me briefly and he squeezes my hand. "She was my girlfriend in my college days. We were... very close." "Like... in love close?" He chuckles dryly. "...yes. We were both film students, and she was a Transfer from Spain for the year. And it was a hell of a year." He grins fondly at the memory. "Then... what happened?" "The short version? She had an old boyfriend back in Spain, and I knew they'd end up married if she went back. So... we were going to run away together. We were supposed to meet at a bus station near campus before her plane left. But I..." he hesitates, sips his wine. "...I never showed up. So she left. They have a family together now."

It's quiet for a moment. He sees me watching him, unable to hide the little bit of sadness in my eyes. He kisses my knuckles. "Deep regret can ruin a man from the inside, Annie. I put my career first and ruined my first chance at love. I'm not making that mistake again." My heart flutters at the mention of love. "But anyways, all that to say, Yvonne would say things like that all the time. What happened, happened, but, what was it you said? 'If that was the moment that led to this one'..."

I smile brightly at him and hold my glass up. "Then, to many more moments." He smiles back and taps his wine glass with mine.

Dinner goes much better than the last one we had together. Thomas and I only stop talking when it's time to eat, and even then it's between bites. Once we begin to wrap up and the bill is paid, music pours in from the open windows. "Sounds like there's dancing out on the veranda." Thomas stands and offers me his hand. "Shall we join them?"

**********

The veranda is lit by strings of fairy lights from above. A makeshift dance floor has been parted by the dining tables, making it a little smaller than the masquerade. A live band performs on a stage, and couples dancing dot the area.

Thomas wastes no time pulling me straight into the middle of it. Next thing I know, my hand is on his shoulder and his arm is around my waist. Now this is familiar. "I suppose I meet your standards now?" I tease. He rolls his eyes. "If you didn't, we wouldn't be here in the first place. Why, are you still nervous?" He teases back. "God, even more now. But... relieved, in a way. I never thought I'd get to dance with you again." He smiles softly. "I didn't either. But don't be nervous. You're still mesmerizing." As if to emphasize his point, he grips me tighter. And if I'm not mistaken, that hand is dipping just ever-so-slightly beyond my hip. And I am not complaining.

The band is playing music a bit more upbeat than the waltz at the ball. We swing, jump, spin, and laugh through the rhythm. It's much more fun than a ballroom waltz. And this time, the crowd doesn't stop to watch us. We're all just having fun.

Thomas surprises me with a final flourish. At the final crescendo, he dips me low to where I'm looking at the world upside down. We laugh as he slowly pulls me back up, and I realize that we are nose to nose. He has his hands on my back and hip to steady me, but I don't think it's the dance that has me dizzy. We're both breathing heavily, and I can feel his heartbeat match my own. I gently caress his face. "Thomas..."

"O.M.G. Is that Professor H.!?"

I gasp and bury my head in his jacket lapel. Thomas's arms go protectively around me. "Who is that? Did they see me?" He curses under his breath. "It's Jenni with her stupid phone. We need to go." Using his jacket to shield my face, he rushes me through the crowd, Jenni's annoying voice trailing behind. I hear camera clicks. "Professor, I know you can hear me! Who is that with you? What are you hiding!?"

Thomas quickly shoves his way to the side of the hotel where a small set of stairs leads under the pier and down to the beach. We barely make it to the bottom of the first flight before she appears above us. He pushes me against the wall and we hide under the alcove. "Ughh, where did he go? He was just here!"

We wait until we hear her footsteps recede back to the veranda. A sigh of relief escapes both of us. "That was close." "Too close. Come on, we need to move." Thomas takes my hand and leads me down the rest of the stairs to the beach. We walk for a moment until we reach a rocky outcropping, hidden from sight, but where we can still see the ferry.

A nighttime walk on the beach would have been romantic if not for our harrowing escape from Bianca's stupid friend. Thomas leans on a rock, thinking. But even in the dark, I can see his brow furrowing. He's worried. "That was entirely too close." I fiddle with the sleeve of my dress. "I don't think she saw you." He says with his hand on his chin. "We don't know that for sure. I-" I drop my arms in defeat. Then I cross my arms and sigh. "I'm so, so sorry, Thomas. You were right, this was a risk. If we can't find enough privacy to date on an island, we'll never find it."

He looks at me, then stands. "Are you giving up?" "No, of course not! But, we have to face facts. We got away this time, but next time we might not be so lucky. I couldn't live with myself if you lost your job, your dream, because of me. Just another Hollywood scandal." He goes perfectly still. "I loved this. I did. I loved that you were willing to try. But I can't put you through something this dangerous. Let's go back." I smile sadly and start to walk back to the ferry.

But Thomas turns me around and his mouth is crashing onto mine. It takes me a second to process what's happening, but my arms drape over his shoulders and he pulls me close to him. He kisses me again and again, until he has me pinned against one of the rocks. My hands find his hair. Despite it's shiny appearance, it's so much softer than I ever dreamed.

Finally, he pulls away. He pins his arms on either side of me on the rock, his breath heavy and his eyes laser-focused on me. "You're right about how risky this is. I thought Catalina would be safe, but I miscalculated. We were careless, and it won't happen again."

He pauses to catch his breath but doesn't move. I'm too stunned to move, either. "...Look, this relationship has always been risky. And I was, am, well aware of the consequences of getting involved with you." He tilts my chin up. "But I'm here anyway."

I blink up at him. I'm simply at a loss for words. "If you want to walk away for good, then I won't stop you." He plants his hand back on the rock, firmly. "But I'm in this. I'm all in." I could cry. In fact, I think a couple of tears do spring loose. But I am looking up at this man with so much joy, so much relief, that I could collapse. I hold his face in my hands. "If you're sure... than so am I."

Thomas smiles and kisses me one more time. Soft and sweet this time as he wipes away my tears. Then he rests his forehead against mine, and we just stay.

********

How in the world I am supposed to survive class with Hunt after that night, I have no clue. He gets it easy, all he has to do is scowl and grumble in my general direction and no one bats an eye. But I have to not make heart eyes at him all the time? ....then again, every other student does too, so... hmm.

But we go about our usual Monday morning. Ten minutes into class, Bianca and Jenni bumble in and sit right in front of me and Addison. Hunt scowls at them. "What? Not like we're missing anything." Bianca snips. "Not yet, but clearly you've missed things in past lectures." He plops an essay in front of her. "A 'C'?! Do you know who I am?" Hunt grumbles as he passes out the rest. "Unfortunately."

Bianca gets ready for another bratty retort, then pauses, a smile creeping across her face. "Well, professor, I hope you take a moment to reconsider. You see, I happen to know a very interesting tidbit about you and a certain someone dancing on Catalina Island..."

"I saw you and her on Saturday night when I was at my uncle's wedding!" Jenni chimes in. The whispers spread like wildfire around the classroom. I shoot a very quick glance to Addison. Don't panic. "I don't know what Jenni thinks she saw, but I would advise you to reconsider your attitude, Ms. Stone." Hunt glares at Bianca. "The faculty here does not take kindly to students who attempt to blackmail their teachers."

Bianca scoffs as Hunt finishes passing out papers and begins the lecture. She and Jenni don't pay attention and continue to whisper furiously. It's kind of hard not to eavesdrop. "Ugh, that was so uncool." Jenni types away at her phone. Probably live-tweeting. "Whatever. He'll wish he had just changed my grade once we're through with him. We just have to show everyone the proof." And whether she meant to or not, Bianca shoots a glare back at me.

Gulp.

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!

[rainedr-p]

The Auction: Part 4

Things are about to get awkward. But don't worry, you know it has a happy ending.

(Slight trigger warning ⚠️ The end of this chapter features some mild violence from a drunk that may be triggering to some. Please be advised if this applies to you, and seek help if needed. Take care of you 💙)

Sheridan Hotel is massive. I've seen the MGM Grand in Vegas before, and though it's not quite as big, it's up there. Addison, Ethan, and I make our way to the grandiose conference hall where Aria Sheridan waits excitedly.

"Ahh, I'm so glad you could make it!" Aria squeezes us in a tight hug and leads us to a table. "Thank you so much for volunteering! I promise you won't regret it~" "Anything for you, Aria. Just tell us where to go." Ethan works up his charm. He's always been attracted to money. She smiles sweetly at him. "Ethan, you'll be standing by the crowd and keeping an eye out for bidders during the auction. You two will stand at this table, sign people in, and hand out the bidding cards as people arrive." Aria guides Addison and I to the other side of the table where several paper-fan-style bidding cards lie in bins. "Sounds easy enough. So tell me what this is for, again?" I ask.

"It's a Celebrity Date Auction! Several of Hollywood's most eligible singles have volunteered to be auctioned for a date! Winners will go on basically the most romantic date ever, all expenses paid. And all proceeds go to my Save the Great Barrier Reef foundation, so it's for a good cause, too!" "Wait, so these celebs have volunteered to go on a date with complete strangers??" I'm a little taken aback. Isn't that dangerous? "Don't worry, everyone who signed up to auction has gone through a background check to be safe, and the dates will be in very public places. While they're technically under contract, if someone feels unsafe, they can opt out as a last resort." Aria explains. "Oh. Good to know," I nod, a bit relieved.

Aria sets us all up with what we need, and soon we're checking in dozens of people and ushering them in front of the stage. I'm impressed, but not really surprised by the sheer amount of people wanting to go on a blind date with a celebrity. I'm maybe more surprised that it's not more crowded. Aria takes the stage and starts introductions, then the auction begins. Most celebrities aren't quite A-listers, but I recognize a majority of their works. So far, every one gets a date, though.

"Next up, you may know him as the director of the Audrey-winning sensation 'Ruin'..." "No. Way." My jaw drops and I turn to Addison, who mirrors me. "Or as number 33 in Starlet Magazine's Sexiest People... Currently a professor at Hollywood University, it is my pleasure to present our next date, Thomas Hunt!"

Hunt stands in the spotlight of the stage, looking none-too thrilled to be there. The bid starts and some cards start flying up. Part of me wishes I could bid, to be honest, but I know it would never happen.

Or... I thought it wouldn't. Then Addison steps out from the table to back of the crowd, and she and Ethan nod at each other from across the room.

Addison's card is the last to fly up.

"Aaaand going once, going twice... SOLD! To our dear friend, Annie!" Aria smiles brightly directly at me. "What!?" Hunt and I both yell in unison. "I didn't know my students could be part of this!! Hold on-" "NOW, let's move on to our next date!" Aria pushes Hunt to the side of the stage where one of the stagehands moves him to make room for the next person. Addison saunters back to me, a triumphant, evil grin on her face. "You're ever so welcome~" "Ads, hang on, I appreciate the gesture but there's no way-" "Uhp-uhp-uhp, we've already won the bid. Ethan and I are splitting the price, and you, my dear, are expensive. So no takebacksies."

"Wait, Ethan was in on this???" "And Aria. And a couple others." I can only gape at her. "We just want you to be happy, Annie. Now, you stay here, I've gotta go pay for your date, and then once the auction is over, you go meet Hunt at your first stop." She begins to walk away. "Addison, please wait-" "It's for charity!" She looks back at me and winks, then I'm alone at the table. I hide my head on its cold surface, which quickly warms up from my burning face.

*******

The auction goes on for another half hour or so. Then I receive a text in a group of two unknown numbers.

"Congratulations on winning a date with -Thomas Hunt-! Please proceed next door to conference room 01B for your first activity! The rest of your itinerary for the evening to follow."

My face still red hot, I rise from my chair with a deep breath. Then I see a flash of blond and I'm suddenly wrapped in a tight hug. "I'm sorry we didn't tell you, but we wanted this to be a surprise. You two are such a good match, and I promise tonight will prove it." "Ads, you don't know that. I guarantee you he's screaming at Aria right now to reopen the bidding." "Mm, probably, but he'll get over it. Especially when he's having such a good time with you. Now go on! And I want to hear all about it!" Addison sends me off with a butt smack before running off to help break down the event. Ethan is of course nowhere to be seen, probably avoiding my wrath.

And now I get to go deal with Hunt's. And as always, my assumption is correct. A security guard stands between Aria and a tomato-red Thomas Hunt in the next room over, where all the other lucky couples wait in a steadily-moving line. "I'm sorry, that's now how this works." Aria's explaining patiently. She sees me approach and shoots me a quick wink. "If it's about money, then I'll pay double what they bid." "Ouch." I cringe as I approach them. Hunt's face turns a different shade of red, but not an angry one. "Anneka... we can't do this. Let me repay it." He shoots to Aria. "Well, we're always taking donations! But you're under contract to see this date through." Hunt's fists are clenched and shaking slightly in frustration. Finally, he sighs in resignation. "...Fine. Then where do we start?" "Join the line behind you, and you'll start with a cute photo shoot! Have fun, you two~" Aria winks at me one more time before she strides away with the security guard who eyes Hunt skeptically.

Silently we join the line, Hunt's jaw working and his eyes acutely avoiding me. "I apologize for this. I had no idea they were planning this, or that you would even be here... What are you doing here anyways? You seem like you would avoid something like this like the plague." "Typically, yes. And do not mistake this for something I want to do. I was asked, and it's not in good taste to deny the Sheridan's. As annoying as some of them are..." He adds under his breath. "That makes more sense." I nod understandingly. "And what about you? You're not as, what's the term, 'boy crazy' as your friend, Addison. So why come to something like this?" "Same boat. I volunteered to help with bidding, and got roped into it, just like you."

He only nods and moves forward with the line. "Well, we're already here... make the most of it?" I offer. Hunt shoots me a glare, but it's not as hostile as normal. When we get to the front of the line, three separate photography booths are set up. We're directed to the one in the middle, where the photographer greets us and points us to a backdrop and a box of props. The backdrop is of a fantasy kingdom with a castle taking up most of the space, complete with a village, dragons, and even a rainbow. The box of props holds crowns, tiaras, robes, wands, and all kinds of cheesy royalty wear.

I can't help but giggle at Hunt's disgusted face. "Come on, at least try to have some fun!" "I am not dressing up." "Stop being such a royal pain and get over here. Do it for charity." Even the photographer snickers at my pun. Hunt rolls his eyes dramatically and gives in. He goes with an oversized fuzzy crown and robe, while I go with an elegant plastic tiara and flowing royal shawl. "So, how do I look?" I pose regally. "Like a queen..." I blink. "...what?" He shakes his head. "Like a queen. Is that not what you're dressed up as?" I flip my hair and grin. "Why, thank you!" He sighs again and the photographer begins to pose us. When they move us closer together, his hand goes begrudgingly on my back, and my hand rests on his chest. For being so stoic and grumpy, his heart is beating awful fast. No doubt mine is, too.

We take a few pictures like that, one serious and one smiling, well, me smiling at least. Then we're told to go "freestyle", so I start having fun with the props; I dramatically pose with a wand, Hamlet pose with a plastic skull, and do my best to get him to join in on the fun. Anything to make him seem at least less uncomfortable, and he definitely wasn't comfortable touching me.

Eventually, I dig through the box and find a dragon puppet and a sword. "Oh perfect! We can slay a dra-OH!" Only, the sword I pull out isn't a sword. It's a bow that was folded and squished down to the bottom of the box, which unfolds and smacks me in the face as I stand back up. The photographer and I are belly laughing as I hold my forehead and stumble back a bit, Hunt catching me. I glimpse him through my squinted eyes, but his head is turned and he's laughing too. The camera flashes.

******

"Those are to be posted nowhere." Hunt warns as we drive to our next destination. I scroll through the pictures of our photoshoot and smile. There's one I am definitely printing, though he will never know that. I'm laughing happily while holding my forehead, and Hunt's head is low and to the side, but you can tell that he's laughing too. His hand is on my back. We look like we're having fun. "Nowhere, Anneka." He repeats. "Understood, professor." I say. But I'm still grinnin' like an idiot.

Hunt parks and we walk to our dinner reservation for the night. Chateau de Rose glows golden amidst the streetlights. Strings and accordion pour from the open windows, roses accent almost every nook and cranny, and everywhere, couples are making heart eyes across their white-clothed table.

Hunt groans and pinches the bridge of his nose. "I should have recognized the address. I swore I'd never come here again..." "You've been here before?" "A long time ago. I'd rather not talk about it." "Was the food that bad?" I tease, trying to make light of things. "I said I'd rather not talk about it." He gives me his signature glare and we approach the host stand outside.

Our table was outside under a handsome gazebo, but per Hunt's request, we are lead to a dark, secluded corner, near the kitchen. Still romantic, but whatever he's comfortable with.

Hunt is very, very into the menu. The only time he looks up is to tell the waiter what he wants. I have to make conversation, if nothing else to ease the tension and make this less awkward. "So... what does Professor Hunt do for fun?" His eyes slowly rise from the menu to meet mine through his eyelashes. "What are you doing?" "Um... making conversation?" I shrug. "Unnecessary." And he goes back to the menu. I nod and try to act interested in mine, but I find myself just rereading the same item over and over again. I take to picking at a loose thread on the sleeve of my cardigan.

Hunt sighs and his menu lands on the table. "...nothing fun, in the way you're asking. Though from time to time, when mindlessly scrolling through social media, I'll come across a past student's work, and if it interests me enough, I'll critique it." I leave my cardigan alone. "Critique it? Not compliment?" He scoffs. "It takes a lot to get a compliment from me. Very few have had the honor." "Well, those who have must have earned it. Any in particular come to mind?"

And then we're talking. I'm having a full-blown conversation with Thomas Hunt and he's not scowling at me the whole time. He tells me about a past student who created a short film that went on to win several awards and possibly a feature-length film in the future. I tell him about the first film I ever starred in as an extra. He complains about the director of that film and we have mutual comments about the rest of the crew. Everything just flows... smoothly.

I hardly even realize that dessert has come and gone before our plates are being taken and we're thanked for dining there. Then Hunt looks around as if remembering we're in public, and that crease on his forehead is back. Oh my god, I'm even noticing the creases on his forehead. What is wrong with me. He clears his throat and stands. "So, where do we have to go next?" As I stand, he's already marching for the door. I speed-walk to keep up. "Uh, the aquarium. In keeping with Aria's Great Barrier Reef theme." "Then let's go."

******

The aquarium had just closed about half an hour ago, but they're keeping it open after-hours specifically for this event. Oddly enough, there's not many other couples here. It's nice to explore the open aquarium without the crowd. "This is so cool!" I grin as we make our way through the first exhibits and I don't have to peer over someone's shoulder. "It's admittedly interesting." Hunt grumbles. He glances at the fish, but has now taken to gluing his eyes on his watch. That's right, the date's contractually over at midnight. Which leaves us with not much time.

I try not to dwell on it as we go through. Me and my excited self are oohing and ahhing over all the critters. I play with an otter through the glass as it follows my hand. I look back at Hunt and try to get him to join, but he quickly looks away. Eventually, we make our way to the "Underwater Encounter" section. A tunnel leads under a massive tank, giving the feeling of actually being in it. We're alone down here, aside from all the sea creatures swimming around us. It's incredible. Even Hunt's eyes are a little wide as we get a full surrounding view.

I take it all in, smiling. When I look over at Hunt, his gaze is on me. Then he clears his throat and looks away. I can't hide my blush as I awkwardly look away too. "So... what do you think so far?" "The turtles were boring. The jellyfish dreadfully more so. The otters... were cute." He admits, now avoiding my gaze. "Coming from you, that's a rave review." He chuckles. "Well, watching you play with them made it more interesting. Watching you have fun all night tonight has actually been the high-" he stops. Then he shakes his head and turns away. "Never mind."

"It's actually been the what?" I step a bit closer. He glances at me and I can see him blush. He hesitates to speak. "It's... been the highlight of the night. Watching you be so carefree and have fun, regardless of who's watching you. Like you have no insecurities." I actually laugh out loud. His eyes widen. "No insecurities!? Are you kidding? Hunt, I have been a nervous freaking wreck all night. I have fun because I want to! And because it's better than sitting bashfully twiddling my thumbs. Believe me, I care immensely about what others think of me. Especially you." His brow furrows. "Me?" "Well... yeah. But you knew that already." I shrug and turn out toward the glass. No sense being embarrassed about it, I already confessed.

"Oh..." he blushes and stands next to me, hands in his pockets. It's quiet for a moment. "...You don't seem insecure. Sometimes you're the picture of confidence." He says. "Because I am a fantastic actress. Why do you think I went into this business?" I grin. But he's not smiling. In fact, he looks almost angry. "But, you shouldn't be. Whoever made you feel like this doesn't know you at all." My smile turns sad. "And who exactly am I, Hunt? You once called me naive and childish for dreaming so much."

His hands are in fists at his sides. "I was wrong. You dream big, but someone like you deserves to. Even with insecurities, you never give up without a fight. You're brave, intelligent, charming, talented, and-... beautiful."

My eyes are wide as I turn to face him. This time, he doesn't turn away. His eyes are searching mine, and his breathing is slightly heavy from his speech. I realize he's mere inches from me. My voice comes out soft and nervous. "Hunt, I know you probably don't want this, but... indulge me? At least this once." My heart is racing as I lean up on my tiptoes, placing my hands on his chest to balance. He doesn't move.

And in one, sweet moment, I close the gap, and I kiss Thomas Hunt.

I swear there's a spark, and then I feel him lean ever-so-slightly forward. And he's kissing me back. His hands reach up and hold my arms.

And then the moment is over. Hunt snaps back and holds my hands up. "Annie... we can't." He drops my hands and steps away. I nod sadly. "I know." He runs a hand down his face. "Are there any more activities we're required to do?" I check the itinerary. "No, but it's not midnight yet-" "Then let's go get a drink."

*******

To end the night, Hunt takes us to a bar across from campus. Any attempts at conversation are met with him swiftly shutting it down. He is content to drink the night away. I am not, but there isn't much I can do. A trio of frat guys play pool and yell at the TV nearby. Not really a place for quiet conversation anyways.

Fortunately, the awkwardness doesn't last much longer, as the clock strikes midnight and Hunt abruptly stands from his stool. "So, that's it then?" "Yes. I have met my contractual obligations for the night, and we are no longer required to be together." He puts his blazer back on and leaves cash for the tab. "Goodnight, Anneka." And then he scurries out the door.

"...Goodnight." I whisper to his long-gone form.

So, that's it, indeed. Who was I to ever get my hopes up like that? That kiss was the only chance I would ever have, and I don't regret it a single bit. A student and a professor is horrifically frowned upon and probably downright illegal. It never would have actually worked anyways.

Then... why the hell does it hurt so much?

The bartender brings tissues and wine to the corner where I'm sitting. I laugh and thank them, wiping at my face. But then I am met with an overwhelming smell of cheap beer and Axe body spray. "Whatsamatter, baby? Grandpa can't handle all o' you?" One of the frat guys has staggered over to me and is leaning on the bar over my shoulder. The drunken smell is nauseating.

"No, I think it's all of you he can't handle." I smile wearily and lean away. "Aww, he done left ya? You need some company, shweetheart?" He slurs. "Mm, I'll pass, thanks. Wine is company enough right now." I raise my glass to him. He swats it away, spilling it on me, and drapes an arm over my shoulders. "I'm soorrry, baby, I didn't mean-" I shove him off of me and look down at my ruined dress. "I said, I'll pass, thanks."

The drunk staggers back and his face turns into pure rage. "Now you wanna be a b*tch cause I got wine on ya? Think you're high and mighty?" He bellows. I move to retort, but then his fist collides with my cheek. My head slams into the wall behind me, and I see stars as I fall to my knees on the floor.

My ears are ringing loudly. I can hear shouting from someone, the bartender maybe? Then I feel pounding footsteps, and look up to see someone deck the drunk and send him flying across the room. It's blurry, but I think he's out cold. Good riddance.

There's more talking, then I feel hands gently helping me to my feet. It takes a moment to focus, but I realize I'm in Hunt's arms. He feels around my hair, and I wince when he reaches a certain spot on the back of my head. He shines a flashlight in my eyes, but I realize what he's doing.

"Not concussed, just bruised." He sounds relieved. He receives a bag of ice from the bartender and hold it under my eye. Sweet, cold relief. "Are you alright?" He asks gently. "Think so," I manage. "I'm taking her to campus. Make sure that thing gets locked away." Hunt calls to the bartender, a deep scowl directed at the knocked out drunk in the floor.

There's a small clinic on campus, usually open 24 hours. The overnight nurse is never surprised to see a drunk or hungover student stumbling in during the late night hours. Tonight is no different when she sees Hunt helping me walk to one of the beds. He peppers instructions at her, and she closes the curtain and goes to get what he needs. What I need, I guess.

Hunt gently removes the ice pack from my face and moves it to the bump on my head. I yelp at the sudden cold of it and he brushes a thumb across my un-bruised cheek. "I know, I know, I'm sorry. I'm so sorry this happened, Annie..." The nurse returns with another ice pack and some medicine. He doesn't move his hand. "Anything else you need?" "Privacy." He states. The nurse's eyebrows raise, but she leaves us be.

We're both quiet as he applies medicine under my eye. It stings, but in a good way. "You'll definitely bruise for a bit. Bastard must have had a ring on, what with this little gash..." I say nothing as he finishes and applies a bandage. I have nothing to say.

He swallows. "I never should have left you there alone. I had a bad feeling about those guys, but I was too afraid, too-" he stops, like he's searching for words. "I'm sorry. I'm just glad you're alright." "Mostly." He looks up at me. I shrug and smile sadly. I feel a tear slide down my cheek. "I'll be fine. A punch to the face and the heart won't kill me. Time will pass and I'll get over it." Partially a lie. My face will heal. My heart? She's not good at it. "Annie-" he starts. "The only thing I can't figure out is... why did you come back?"

Hunt looks away briefly. Swallows. Then he looks back at me, something different in his expression. He wipes away that tear. "Everyone has his weaknesses."

Then Hunt's arms are wrapped around me, gently cradling my aching head. "You're mine, Annie."

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: RIsing Stars. Thank you for reading!)

[rainedr-p]

The Dinner Party: Part 3

Tensions are high, and no one knows why. When push comes to shove, will you fall, or will you fly? (The Dinner Party is technically after the Auction, but time has a funny way of flowing sometimes...)

"-And before I forget, I have one more announcement. As many of you know, it's almost time for my end-of-term dinner party. Those who finished in the top ten percent of this class are invited. The list is posted outside. Don't make me regret hosting it again after last year's disaster. As a reminder, big-name people in the industry will also be there, so don't embarrass me this time. Dismissed."

Addison and I take our time gathering our stuff after Hunt's lecture while the rest scatter like flies. "What happened last year?" I ask. "Someone broke a priceless vase. Hunt got all worked up and started throwing people out," she nudges me, "...it was kind of hot." "Addison!" I punch her arm and she laughs. We're some of the last to get a glimpse at the bulletin board outside the classroom. I scan for my name on the invite list. "I'm invited!" I smile at Addison, equally beaming. "I am too! We can go together!"

We link arms as we begin to walk down the hallway together, other students excitedly chatting about the night. "So, this party's a big deal, huh?" "Only the biggest! It's the best time to see Hunt not in 'professor mode'." Addison explains. "Yeah, he'll be in 'host mode', which almost sounds just as intimidating..." I think for a moment, then laugh to myself. "Can you imagine? Hunt taking people's coats, making small talk, offering drinks and hors d'oeuvres-"

"Wrangling college students?" Hunt's voice suddenly appears from behind. I jump a little. "Professor! I was just-" "Please behave at this party, Anneka. Addison." He gives us both a glare before parting through us and walking away.

I sigh. "Aaaand he's back." Addison pats my back. "To our loving, cheerful professor. It was nice while it lasted." I stick my tongue out at her as we continue on our way.

******

The night of the party approaches faster than I thought. Addison digs through my closet, nitpicking at colors and trends. "You have to look absolutely perfect tonight, Annie. Professional, yet alluring. Adventurous, yet mature. Spontaneous, yet thoughtful." "Hot but not, got it." I tease from the bed. She rolls her eyes. "Come on! What do you want your outfit to make Hunt think of you? "I want to be a normal student and have a good time, not get wrapped up in a school girl crush that was never going to amount to anything anyways!" "Never say never~" She sings from behind my dresses. I groan and flop down onto my bed.

Eventually I settle with a dark indigo button down dress with a red belt and red pump heels. Addison has done my hair in a low bun with a braid knitting one side. She goes with a classic sundress with a jean jacket and her golden waves flowing freely.

Hunt's bachelor pad is a lovely, chic one-story house in a cozy neighborhood, right down the street from campus. His decor definitely matches his style; everything just says 'refined' and 'orderly'. In the foyer, a single mahogany table is nestled against the wall underneath a framed poster for his Audrey-winning film, "Ruin".

Hunt is in the living room, greeting guests and being as pleasant as ever. He spots Addison and I as we weave our way in. I politely wave to him. "Professor Hunt. Thank you for the invite! You have a lovely home." Something flashes in his eyes but is quickly replaced by a scowl. "Anneka. Addison." He all but scurries away. "W-... what was that all about?" I ask. "I don't know... something seems to have him on edge, though." Addison leads us to the kitchen, where we grab a drink. "After I talked to him about being cordial, too." I sigh into my punch.

We catch up with a few classmates and head out to the backyard. A pool lies untouched, whereas the makeshift poolside bar does not. We sit at one of the high-top tables. then Addison's eyes go wide as she looks past me. "It's Marianne Delacroix! I didn't know she'd be here!" "Your boss?" "Yeah! I guess it makes sense, though. She's pretty good friends with Hunt." I guess something in my expression makes her pause. "...But she also has a steady boyfriend, so I'm sure you have nothing to worry about!" "Huh? Worry about what?"

Addison waves her down and she exchanges greetings with her boss. Miss Marianne has Hunt in tow. She turns and notices me, a very tense Hunt trying to inch away from where he stands right next to me. "Oh, Thomas, is this one of your students?" "I am. I'm Anneka Sinclair, pleasure to meet you!" I shake her delicately manicured hand. "Sinclair?" She gestures to Addison. "No relation." We say in unison. "Ah, well, very nice to meet you as well! And Addison, always a pleasure-" "Anneka, don't have you have somewhere else to be?" Hunt says through gritted teeth. I blink at him. What is your problem? "What do you mean? We're at your party-"

"Thomas! No need to be so rude." Marianne shushes him. "Apologies, it's just that dinner will be served soon. Let's find our seats, Marianne." Hunt is basically bouncing on his feet to get moving before he whisks Marianne away. Addison gives my hand a squeeze before we leave to also find our seats.

Well, Hunt cared enough to make sure we got a seat inside. But from where we sit halfway down the table from him, he clearly didn't want us near him. And better yet, he sits us across from- "Bianca." Addison glares at the spray-tanned brunette now perched across from me. Bianca scoffs. "As if I'm anymore excited to be sat here than you are, Barbie." Well, at least we're finally allowed alcohol now. The waiters begin to bring out the wine and salad course.

Over the chatter of the table, I can still make out Marianne's tinkling voice chatting with Hunt. "Don't be so uptight, Thomas! It seems being stuck in a classroom for so long has sucked the fun right out of you." "We both know I wasn't any fun before I started teaching, either." "That is true. I'd never met a director who earned his reputation more than you, dear. Perfectionist-" "I prefer 'purist'". "-heartless-" "Focused." "And power hungry." "Ambitious." I can't help but peek over and see him grinning. The grin I haven't seen since the night of the masquerade. You lucky woman.

Marianne and Hunt go back and forth about the good old days. Bianca groans and makes a vomiting gesture. "God, I wish they'd just hook back up already and shut up." I pause from poking at my salad and look up at her. "Wait... what?" A little sparkle lights Bianca's eye. "Oh, you didn't know? Marianne and Hunt used to be an item." Something clicks. "Is that... is that why he's been acting worse than normal? He's pushing me away for Marianne?" I whisper to Addison. Addison gives me a look, then turns back to Bianca. "And you're sure?" Bianca gulps her wine. "Oh yeah, I mean, it was a long time ago, but they were a big deal back then. They amicably broke it off when Marianne moved to NYC for her first big magazine job, and they're still friends." More wine. "It's just not fair." "What's not fair?" "Marianne Delacroix is like, perfect for Hunt. She's elegant, charming, sophisticated, and not to mention, beautiful. Who stands a chance of dating Hunt when she's in the picture? No one, that's who." She finishes her wine and snaps at a waiter for more. "Wait, I thought she had a boyfriend?" Addison chimes in. "She did, but they broke up, like, super recently. Marianne is very newly single, and from the way she's looking at Hunt, she's ready to be comforted."

Something in me softly cracks. I chance another glimpse down the table, where Marianne and Hunt are laughing, her hand touching his shoulder. "They would be a perfect match, wouldn't they...?"

"Have you been to the Getty lately, Thomas? Stephen Roth's paintings are being highlighted this month." Marianne is saying to him. I've heard of him. Uncle Moh did security at a gallery he was shown at. I've seen some of his work. "I just went this past weekend. Stephen mentioned he was going to show there last time he visited." Hunt responds. "And did you think it was as derivative as his last exhibit?" "Even more so. It's some of the most unimaginative 'art' I've seen, and I teach this lot." Ouch. Thanks, professor. "I always tell him that he needs to pull himself out of this Harlem Renaissance rut and find some new inspiration."

"Actually, Miss Marianne, if I may. Stephen Roth's paintings are stunning and completely original. Sure, some of his influences are more obvious than others, but as a whole, the exhibit showcased a talented painter who isn't afraid to reference an artistic movement that is often overlooked and undervalued."

I don't realize I've spoken aloud until half the table is gawking at me. Even Addison's jaw is hanging a little open. "Impressive. You seem to know your stuff, Anneka." Marianne smiles proudly. "Thank you, ma'am..." I mutter bashfully. "You know, Thomas, you always make it sound like your students are completely hopeless, but clearly some of them have potential." She nudges him. Hunt is trying his best to keep from glowering, but I can see his hand white-knuckling his wine glass. "So it would seem..."

Entrees come and go as we wine and dine, Addison now prodding me for how I knew who in the world Stephen Roth was. Eventually, some people begin to disperse as they finish eating, and Hunt stands. "Dessert and after-dinner drinks will be served in the living room in a few minutes. I just have to fetch the moscato from the wine cellar."

"And I have to use the little girls' room." I tell Addison. "Ooh, going after Hunt alone?" She teases. "No Ads, I'm actually going to the bathroom." I poke her forehead and head off to do just that. Only, as I exit the bathroom, I run almost straight into Hunt in the hall. "Ah! Professor, I am so sorry, it almost happened again!" I nervously chuckle as I help straighten the bottle he almost dropped. "Leave it be." He mutters and tries to rush past me. "Wait!" I call. He stops and impatiently turns around. "Can we just talk for a minute?" His scowl burns into my face. "About what?" "I'm not asking to be all buddy-buddy with you, but you've been very rude, and purposely avoiding me-" "I don't know what you're talking about. I'm hosting a party, Anneka, I have important things to do." "I understand, I do. But I don't even feel like a guest, I feel like a nuisance. Just, please, tell me what the problem is-"

"You want to know what the problem is?" He steps toward me and jabs a finger at me. "It's you. You are my only problem. Your very presence puts everything I've worked toward my whole life in jeopardy. So I'd appreciate it if you weren't around. At all. Leave me alone!"

It's like a punch to the gut all over again. But this time, this time his expression doesn't soften. Instead, he just turns around. I take a step back, trying to regain what little composure I have. "Understood, sir." I mutter. And then I stumble for the front door.

*******

I make it to the bottom of his front porch steps before I collapse. Luckily, I seem to be the only soul out here right now, as the party is happening inside and out back. I'm too in shock to even sob, so tears just silently stream. This would have hurt even if I didn't have feelings for him. But the finality of that statement. If he thinks I'm a problem, then I won't be a problem.

The front door opens and someone approaches beside me. "Ads, I'm fine, just needed a breather from the alcohol-" "You only had one glass, my dear. I know it's much more than that." I whip my head around to see Marianne Delacroix gently lowering herself to sit next to me. She offers me tissues. "How did you-?" "I may have heard the whole thing. But don't worry, I'm the only one who did. What he said was very uncalled for, but... he didn't mean a word of it." I sniffle and use one of the tissues. "How do you know?" "You think he didn't treat me differently when we were younger? His emotions are... hm, let's say complicated. He has a very hard time controlling them and they usually come in outbursts like that." "He controls his emotions by lashing out? Isn't that, like, toxic?" Marianne laughs softly. "It can be. But Thomas is like an ice sculpture; you just have to keep chipping away until the ice turns into something beautiful."

I take a deep breath. "Wait... why are you telling me this? I thought you two were...?" She laughs again. "A long time ago. But no, I didn't come here to steal your man. Maybe at first, but I saw how he looked at you, and I knew I would never stand a chance." I sputter. "Wait, what? No, no, it's not like that- he's my professor! And the way he looked at me? What, with disdain? And you not standing a chance? Have you met you? You're sophisticated, charming, smart and beautiful, I don't-" Marianne puts a finger to my lips. She leans in close. "You want to know a secret?" She smiles, her perfectly red lips enough to make anyone blush. "If all that is true, then you're just like me."

I can only stare as she stands and helps me to my feet. "Never sell yourself short, darling. You don't see the way he looks at you when your back is turned. You never do." Her smile is knowing, and there's butterflies in my chest and stomach.

"Marianne, I've been-" Hunt suddenly appears in the doorway, but stops when he sees us standing there. She doesn't look at him, but leans down and gives me a gentle kiss on the cheek. "He'll come around," she whispers. Then she's heading back up the front door steps and into the house, right past Hunt.

A moment passes before I look up at him. He's frozen, looking as if he's waging war within himself. I gesture for him to come over, then sit back on the steps. Hunt sighs and becomes the second person to sit next to me on the steps.

The awkward silence feels like an eternity. Finally, he speaks softly. "...I really am horrible to you, aren't I?" I smooth my skirt and hug my knees. "You can be, yeah." "...I'm sorry." He looks over at me. "I'm truly sorry, Anneka. Sometimes I lash out in the moment and don't realize what I've said until the damage is done." I shrug. "It's not completely unwarranted. I've been pushy, and in-your-business, and-" "But you haven't. You're just there, and I make it seem like a problem that you are." "So... you're saying I'm not a problem?" Hunt laughs to himself. "No, Anneka. You are not a problem. My stubbornness and ego are." I laugh with him. "... I think I know why you've been avoiding me, though." "Oh?"

Deep breath. Time to tackle the elephant in the room, Annie. "...Right, so... You mentioned, in the storage room a while ago... you brought up feelings." I feel myself beginning to blush. He's watching me with unreadable scrutiny. "And, I mentioned something like a school girl crush..." Another deep breath. "It's... true. I've always admired you, as a professor and from your work, and then, that night, at the masquerade... I wasn't disappointed it was you?" I look at him for a reaction. For anything. He hasn't changed.

I sigh and cover my face. "I like you, Hunt. My stupid heart decided it that night and I can't... stop. I know it's so forbidden, student and teacher and all, but I'm hoping it'll get easier to get over once the confession is out. So there it is." I lift my face and look out into the street. Now I'm waiting for the yelling to start, for him to berate me for being so childish and having these silly feelings that are just a phase I'll get over, that there's a snowball's chance in hell this would or could ever happen.

But Hunt doesn't yell. No, Hunt doesn't yell. His forehead softly collides with my shoulder, and I feel his weight shift as he sighs. Is he... relieved? What is happening right now?

As my head turns, my jaw gently meets the top of his head. His hair smells and feels like mousse, and I get a whiff of that fancy cologne that has never left my senses. My hand finds his on the stone step, our fingers graze. "Hunt...?" I whisper.

Then he's standing up in a flash, brushing off his blazer and shaking himself awake. "Thank you for your... honesty, Anneka. Enjoy the rest of the night." Then Hunt marches up the steps and back inside.

I follow a few minutes later and find Addison talking shop with Marianne in the kitchen. Hunt has disappeared. "Hey, there you are! Long bathroom break, you okay?" Addison asks.

I'm still in a daze, but I smile. "Yeah, I'm okay. I feel... lighter, honestly." Marianne smiles knowingly. But Addison grimaces. "Gross, TMI."

"No, not like that!"

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!)

[rainedr-p]

The Reluctant Professor: Part 2

Annie finally gets a chance to talk to Professor Hunt about that night. But not in the way you remember.

I hardly even remember getting back into the Uber. From holding back tears for so long and trying to stay calm as I fought my way back through the masked crowd, or maybe it's the 2 extra champagnes I decided to down on the way out. My dorm room door is a welcome site as I fumble for my key out of my clutch.

What isn't really a welcome sight right now is Addison and Ethan eagerly awaiting for me on my bed.

"Okay, I know you must be tired and possibly tipsy from your big night at the ball, but we've seen pictures and videos of 'The Peacock Waltz' trending everywhere. The woman happens to look just like how you're dressed up now..." Ethan shoves his phone at me. Sure enough, clips of my waltz with Hunt from just a while ago are in fact trending. "Deetz, sister. Who is that man and why is he not with you?" Addison snaps a finger at me teasingly.

I stammer, looking for words at their sudden barrage of questions. Their mischievous grins shift to concern, though. "Annie? You okay?"

"Huh?" I blink, then wipe at my eye. My hand comes back wet. "O-oh, um... The night went great! The dance was... m-magical. But..." And then I can't keep my composure anymore as the shock of the night wears off.

I'm sobbing into my hand as Addison jumps up and wraps her arms around me, guiding me back to the bed. "Hey, hey, what happened? Are you okay??" She soothes my back, then twists me around so she can start taking my hair down. Ethan brings tissues and takes my heels off for me. "Take you time, you can talk when you're ready."

After a moment, I'm blowing my nose and laughing at myself, my now-loose curls bouncing around my face. I take a deep breath and nestle between my best friends. "Um.. in all honesty, the night was actually... wonderful. I met the man you saw in the video, the one I danced with. We hit it off. He came off as a snob at first, but once I was able to start cracking that icy wall... he was a gentleman. Sweet, fun to converse with, an amazing dancer... ticked all of my boxes."

"Then what happened? Was he someone's husband?" Addison's icy glare could kill a man. I laugh. "No, no, as far as I know he's single. After we danced, we went outside, and he took off his mask."

"Ugly? A relative? Liam Hemsworth?" Ethan prods. Addison and I both snort. "God, no. But even more out of reach." I take a deep breath as they both wait for the reveal.

"... It was Professor Thomas Hunt."

They both go "Ohh shit." simultaneously.

I laugh at the ridiculousness of all of it. "We didn't know! You guys know my Uncle Moh, right?" "The hard-ass cop that wants you to remain 'anonymous' at events he gets you into because he's worried he's going to put you in danger or get himself in trouble even though he literally gets those tickets for free?" Ethan asks. "The same one. I kept my promise, didn't give my name, and we were all in masks, of course." "But he gave you his name, right? He's not under the same rule." "Yeah, but he introduced himself as Thomas. I don't know him as Thomas! I know him as Professor, or Hunt, or Professor Hunt!" Ethan pats my head. "Oh, you sweet, beautiful blonde." "Hey!" Says Addison.

I stand up and begin pacing, hugging my waist. "It's just... for one night, I meet a guy that just... I don't know, understood me? Or at least wanted to. Without knowing who he really was, I was already crushing hard. Being around him was just... easy. So when he took my mask off and I saw that disgust on his face and he stormed off..." I furiously wipe at unwelcome tears.

Ethan and Addison exchange a look. I sniffle. "..what?" "...Addison and I have kind of... discussed it before. Not you! But Hunt. And how he might not be as 'disgusted' by you as you think." I scoff. "We're talking about the same Hunt, right? The professor that singles me out every lecture? That grades me more strictly than everyone else? Even scrutinizes my appearance at times if I'm having a bad hair day??"

Addison has the gall to smirk. "Oh, please. The constant criticizing? The stern glares? Why he singles you out? We're a thousand percent sure he's had a thing for you since before tonight." I laugh. "Right, is this like that whole rule we had as kids? 'If boys are mean to you, it means they like you!'" "Yeah, pretty much. Playground-view of it. But bottom line is, there's always been some attraction between you two. He's just bad at hiding it." Ethan explains. I can't help but roll my eyes. "Guys, I don't know why he hates me, but I honestly doubt it's that. Tonight only happened because he didn't know it was me. But..." I chew on my thumb. "I have to admit. It was... nice, getting to see the side of him that doesn't hate me. Until the end, at least." My cheeks turn a rosy pink. Addison giggles and claps her hands in delight. "You have a crush on Hunt! Gasp, a professor! The scandal!" I grab a throw pillow from my armchair and throw it at her.

Ethan throws his hands up and stands. "Alright, pillow fights are where I'm out. Cinderella, glad you're home safe from the ball." He hugs me and turns to leave as Addison boos him and throws the pillow at his butt.

Once he leaves, I un-fancify myself and collapse on my bed in my cozy pajamas. Addison plops next to me. "Sooo.... anymore steamy details?" I glare in response. She doesn't budge. I sigh and resign to tell her everything. From our conversation at the bar, to the magical dance, to the goosebumps he gave me at the table, then to everything on the balcony. Even our almost-kiss, which has me burying my face in my pillow.

Once Ads is satisfied, she gives me one final hug and turns in for the night on her side of the room. I'm exhausted from the night, but my mind keeps replaying everything in my head like a movie. And one scene sticks out to me. The very last one.

"Don't be..."

I didn't see his face. I couldn't look at him. But something in his posture and how gently he said it... Did he not regret tonight? Was he telling me not to? Or was he telling me to forget? While I hang myself on his words, there's one thing I can't deny. I really, really wish I could, but my stupid heart wants what it wants.

I have a stupid crush on my professor.

******

It's about a week later. Thursday classes are wrapping up for the day. Professor Hunt has been oddly resigned with me this week. Still glaring, but he's not singling me out as much, and even seems to be avoiding me. I'm trying to be cordial, but I'm met with side glances or sneers. So much for being a gentleman.

As usual, once class is over, he's stuffing his briefcase and trying to bolt. Addison nudges me and glances at him. I shake my head. "It's probably best to just let this go." "Okay, look. What happened, happened. There's been so much tension in this classroom this week that you could probably cut it with a knife. Hunt's been on edge, and not in his usual way. He's like a bomb about to go off. You have to talk to him." "And what is that going to do? It'll just make him angrier! I am the last person he needs or wants to talk to." She sighs angrily. "Because he wouldn't be so affected by this if he didn't have feelings for you! For your sake, his sake, and your classmates, talk. It. Out. Please." She shakes my shoulders on the last few words. I chew on my lip for a second in thought. "...okay. Okay, fine! If only to get you and Ethan to realize that this is dumb! He hates me!" I shrug and sling my bag over my shoulder. "Yes! Give me the deetz as soon as you're done! 'Kay love you bye!" She boops my nose and then darts out of the room. I roll my eyes and grip my bag strap as I walk into the hallway. Hunt's office is right around the corner, and I ram straight into him as we both round it. Hunt is knocked back into the corner and I lose my balance and land on my bottom.

"I am so sorry! I was lost in thought and I wasn't looking where I was going-" "It's fine. Just be more careful." Hunt rubs his shoulder from where it collided with the wall and walks right past me on the floor. "W-wait, sir, I-" "THOMAS!"

We both freeze. Professor Misha Llewellyn's heel clicks fill the halls as she rushes over and helps me to my feet, brushing off my back and bottom. "That was incredibly rude, sir! She could've been hurt yet she was apologizing to you!" Hunt looks downright sheepish. "I'm sorry, ma'am, but I really must be-" "Absolutely not!" She swings me in front of her so I'm standing between both of them. "To her." Hunt glances between us and sighs. "I'm sorry, Miss Anneka. Are you alright?" Both of us are uncomfortable. She's got Hunt in a death stare and a death grip on my shoulders. Sweetest professor, but she is formidable. No one messes with Llewellyn. "Y-yeah, I'm okay." I nod. "Excellent! That wasn't so bad was it?" Llewellyn claps her hands. Hunt looks like he might puke. "Well, since I've got you both here, I have a little favor to ask, if you'd be so kind?" Hunt turns to go. "Well, I actually must be going-" "Oh, this won't take long at all! Come along!" She gestures for us to follow. I shrug at Hunt and go after her. I hear one of his signature sighs as he tags along.

The room she takes us to is an equipment storage room on the other side of the building. Old cameras, lights, clapboards, tripod stands, all kinds of film stuff. She gestures to the far wall where boxes overflowing with goodies line the shelves. "Now, there is an old camcorder in one of these boxes. For nostalgia's sake and for a project for my students coming up, I need your help finding it. Don't worry about putting everything back where you find it, there's no specific system in here. And just drop it off in my office when you find it!" "And why do you need my help? You do realize that I am also a busy professor myself?" Hunt asks. "Hmm? Oh yes. But I also know you don't have class on Fridays. Thanks for your help!" Llewellyn gives a little wave and then leaves us to our own devices.

Hunt sighs deeply. "I loathe that woman sometimes. Let's get this over with." He weaves his way through the equipment and begins digging through the boxes. I follow suit. "I don't know, she's definitely pushy, but she usually means well?" I chance. To my not-surprise, he's giving me the silent treatment. "I like her. She grades fairly and doesn't play favorites." My response is shuffling of boxes and clattering of items being tossed.

It only takes a few moments of awkward silence before I've had enough and slam the box back onto the shelf. "Okay, look, we need to talk." "No, we don't." He says nonchalantly and moves to another box. "Yes, we do. I get that you don't like me, you never have. And I'm not sure why you don't, but whatever. Shouldn't I at least get treated like a human being?" "Would you rather me treat you like an alien? Pretend like you're from outer space and just learning about Earth?" He deadpans. From anyone else, that sarcasm might have been funny. "I'd almost prefer it to being treated like I'm the most annoying thing in existence." "And you're not?" I blink. He glances at me in my moment of silence, and for a moment it looks like he regretted saying that. He shakes his head and goes back to his box with a sigh. "What do you want to talk about?" "That night-" "No." "Look, it happened. We did have a good time, but it-" "Anneka. Nothing. Happened. I told you that nothing changes." He glares daggers at me. "But things did change, Hunt. You changed them! Everyone has noticed. There is a palpable tension in that classroom and I didn't put it there. I'm actually trying to move on from that night, but you're the one who is actively making it awkward!" I pause to let it sink in. "It doesn't have to be. You can go back to hating me like normal, for whatever I did to you. Whatever, this, is-" "I've never hated you."

"You.. what?" "I'm not repeating myself. I don't hate you, I'm hard on you. As any good professor should be." "Then why do you single me out?" "I don't. Whatever fantasy you've created where my focus is on you doesn't exist. But you disrupt my class, fail an assignment, make a foolish decision like trying to pry out feelings that aren't there-"

"I never mentioned feelings...?" He freezes and keeps his gaze on the box. "Hunt, this isn't about a school girl crush or anything. I'm not trying to make this romantic because I know you don't feel that way. Far from it." I grimace. "I just didn't want things to be awkward between us. More than they already are. We can have civilized conversations, be around each other without itching to get away... You know, be cordial?" He doesn't move. It's a long pause before he talks again. "Fine. We can be 'cordial'." I nod and sigh in relief, then go back to helping dig through old dusty stuff.

A couple of boxes later, and I come across one full of sleeping bags and newspaper pillows. "Huh, bet these come in handy for long shoots!" Hunt looks over at the sleeping bag I've pulled out. He chuckles. "Brings me back to when I first started out. I pulled a lot of all-nighters. Sometimes I'd get so tired, I'd just fall asleep on set."

"Really? It's hard to picture The Thomas Hunt hunkered down in a sleeping bag in the middle of a movie set." He takes the bag from me and rolls it back up. "There were some tough times back then. But it was worth it. Anything's worth it when you're doing what you love." He gently brushes his hand across an old film reel beside one of the boxes. "Agreed. Every dream is worth fighting for." I smile and look at the film reel he just touched.

But when I glance back at him, it's not the film reel he's looking at. Hunt's eyes are on me. And unless I'm seeing things, he looks almost sad.

The moment quickly passes as he shakes his head and stuffs the sleeping bag back into its box. We go back to hunting for the camcorder in silence, albeit much less awkward.

About 10 minutes go by when we hear the storage room door open and Professor Llewellyn pop in. "Hello? I'm not interrupting anything am I?" I let one last sneeze out. "-Onbly by sneezhing fit." I sniffle. "Phew. Little dusty in here. We're still looking for the camcorder!" Llewellyn looks almost disappointed? "Ah, don't you worry about that anymore! I found it in the bottom of my desk a little while ago!" Hunt slowly rises from the boxes he was crouched over. "And you didn't bother to text or call me about this?" "Ah, no, sorry! I got sidetracked." Something tells me by the huge grin she's wearing, she definitely didn't get sidetracked. What is she doing?

Hunt grunts and kicks the box back to the bottom shelf. "Well, thank you very much for wasting my afternoon." "You're ever so welcome! Now let's get out of this musty old room, shall we?" Hunt looks as if he might be about to hide a body, but we follow her out into the hallway. "I'm sorry for the wild goose chase, but I do appreciate the help! Have a good night you two~" And Llewellyn's heels announce her swift exit.

Hunt and I dust ourselves off. "Well... it was cool to see a little glimpse into college-days Thomas Hunt." I smile at him. Hunt doesn't return it and sighs. "Honestly, I don't know what she was trying to accomplish, other than wasting my time and almost getting you sick... but if you wanted to hear more about my college days, all you had to do was ask." "Wait, I could do that before?" He blanches. "I-I meant as a student you could learn from the previous experiences of your elders. Don't read into things." I laugh. "Okay, fair enough. And if you ever want to go diving through a storage room with your favorite student again-" "No." I snap my fingers. "Ah, darn. Worth a shot."

Hunt turns away as if to stifle a cough, but I swear it sounded like laughing. "It's getting late." "That it is. I'm going to go make sure I don't have spiders in my hair. Have a good night, professor." I turn to go.

Hunt does the same. "Have a good night, Annie."

Annie.

He called me Annie and not my full name. He never does that.

Huh. Progress.

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, names, some dialogue, and all characters except for Annie and Llewellyn belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!)

[rainedr-p]

On the Hunt: Part 1

A retelling of capturing the heart of Hollywood U's most ineligible eligible bachelor.

I salute, "Understood, ma'am!" We laugh and I hug my best friend, thanking her again before I head out to my waiting Uber.

"Ads, it's a charity event. They label it as a 'ball' so big spenders will donate more." My head aches from the amount of tugging she's doing on my hair.

"It is a ball! A masquerade one! You go fancy or you don't go at all!" Addison tucks one last curl into a pin and sets the curler down, stepping back to admire her handiwork. "And I do believe I have made you meet the quota despite your insistence on that dress. You're welcome!"

Well, I have to admit, leave it to a Fashionista to make anything look rich. I give myself a thorough check-over in the full-length mirror, and she's right. My teal silky dress may not have had a comma in the price, but with the silver jewelry, sparkly heels, and the peacock feathers adorning my curled half-up hair, I feel like the Queen herself. The matching peacock masquerade mask will finish the whole suite. "Thank you, Ads! You know how to make a girl feel fancy," I laugh as she snaps pictures and I strike fun poses. "Of course! No one else is ever allowed to dress you. Ever. I mean it, Annie!" She threatens.

And every soul in the room is wearing a masquerade mask. Even the waiters. You can tell there are definitely some moguls and celebrities in here based on how much jewelry they have on, the material of their suits and dresses, but not a face to be seen. Even the string quartet are all wearing matching maroon masks. Dedication at its finest.

Due to limo traffic, my driver has to drop me off a couple of streets down from the venue. Luckily, I went with lower heels. The red carpet is rolled out in the front for some of the bigger-name attendants, so I sidle in through a side entrance and slip on my feathery mask. Once my ticket is given to a greeter, I'm in.

And wow, they really went all in for this "ball" theme. A shiny gold banner welcomes guests with "5th Annual Los Angeles Charity Masquerade Ball" across the foyer. The ballroom itself is glowing with Regency-style decor, gold chandeliers illuminating the massive dance floor with gentle light, everywhere else lit by candlelight. Waiters swim through the crowds with trays of sparkling gold champagne, and even the bar far off to the left has festive shiny centerpieces.

Well, Uncle Moh said to enjoy myself, so I'll ease up and get a mimosa from the bar. Maybe I'll find him later.

I can't help but feel a bit like a princess as my make way down the grand marble staircase to where the bar rests under the second floor balcony. Some people are chatting idly at the numerous tables along the edge of the dance floor, while most are out dancing. There are a couple of stragglers by the bar, usually just swinging by to get a drink that the waiters aren't carrying. One, however, catches my eye. A man in a navy suit, wearing a matching navy mask with silver lining, sits on a stool sipping his scotch and stares down the clock on the wall. He looks irritated to be here, and something about him is... eerily familiar. And maybe a touch alluring. As I approach the bar next to him and place my order, I get a whiff of his cologne. Smells deliciously expensive.

"Not having a good time?" I strike.

The man doesn't even look at me. "What makes you think that? As I enjoy the strongest drink they have, in a room full of strangers."

I shrug and sip my drink as it arrives. "Fair enough. Though, if scotch is the strongest thing they have, that's kind of sad."

He slowly turns toward me. "In case you're dense and missed my point, I meant you. A stranger. I have no interest in socializing with strangers." His gaze returns to the clock.

"You don't mince words, do you?" A sip of mimosa.

"I prefer to be honest." A gulp of scotch.

"Huh, a rare thing in Hollywood. It's appreciated." I nod at him.

"Are you sure? Because I can be very honest." He glances at me from the side and raises an eyebrow.

"Yeah, honesty's refreshing. One thing I've learned since coming here... too many people are willing to lie to your face or cheat to get ahead."

He scoffs. "And you're not one of them?"

"No. Not yet at least." I grin.

"But you do want to get ahead?"

I drink more mimosa and lean on the back of the stool next to him. "I mean, who doesn't?"

The man now fully turns his stool to face me, downs his scotch, and leans on his arm on the bar. "Well, here's more truth for you; everyone wants to be someone. But not everyone here is going to succeed."

I smile knowingly. Heard this one before. "Mm, one of the first lessons I learned, 'To make it in Hollywood, you have to get used to being told no'... but still fight for it, of course."

He blinks and looks at his empty glass on the table almost sadly. "Huh. Wish I had that advice early on..." He glimpses down at me and clears his throat. "Ahem. Excuse me. I'm Thomas. And you are?"

I take his outstretched hand and shake it. "Oh, I'm the niece of the head of security for this event. He's the reason I got in. And I've been instructed to stay anonymous tonight, until the event is over."

He scoffs again. "You don't have to be so coy. I don't need a name to figure out who you are, or anyone in this room for that matter."

Thomas glances at the clock, then back at me, thinks for a moment. "I was. Crowd of strangers, as I mentioned. But, maybe not all are bad..." Now his lips definitely curve into a grin, for me. Lord help me if I get to see who's under that mask.

"But we're all wearing masks. How do you know who anyone is?"

He swivels his seat so I'm next to him and we're both looking out at the fancy crowd. "Years spent analyzing the nuances of physicality and behavior. For example, that woman over there in the pink is Paris Hilton."

I start to question but he puts a hand up. "Her distinctive laugh. The man next to her is Daniel Craig. Slight limp from his injury on the set of 'Spectre'."

I let out an impressed chuckle. "Impressive!" I turn toward him and put my hand on my hip. "And what can you deduce about me, a complete stranger?"

He scratches his chin and doesn't hide that he's looking at me. "I've been wondering that since the moment you arrived. Something about you is familiar, annoyingly so, but at the same time, forgive me, attractive."

I feel my cheeks burn. "You seem familiar too... Annoyingly so." I mimic with an eye roll. He chuckles, maybe the first time I've seen his lips curve. "... You're not going to tell me who you are, are you?"

"And spoil the fun? Masquerades are about mystery and intrigue, right? And also not getting kicked out by my uncle cop. But maybe at the end of the night. Unless you're planning on leaving early...?"

Snob. But I'll be damned if he's not an attractive one.

The string quartet fades into a slower number as I finish my drink. Thomas has moved to people watching and I follow his gaze to the couples now swaying on the floor. "Care for a dance?" I ask.

"Oh no. I don't dance with just anyone."

"No one good enough?"

"Precisely."

"Possibly not even with a 'perfect' stranger?" I move a curl from my mask.

"Possible? Yes. Likely? No."

I sigh. "Well, I could walk away now, and take all of my secrets with me. You'll lie restless wondering who I am with nary a chance to find me..."

"I told you. I could find anyone in this room." I can see his jaw working. Come on... "... though I'm shamed to admit I'm curious and impatient."

"So...?" I take a half-step towards the dance floor.

After a brief moment, Thomas stands from his stool, adjusts his suit jacket, and nods his head toward the crowd. "Try to keep up."

For a moment, I forget we're in public. Thomas is wonderful at dancing. Every sway, every swing, every time he spins me, the dim lights in the room are a blur, and all I can see is him. I swear I'll be smelling his expensive cologne in my dreams, and it's especially on this dress from how close he's holding me. I managed to even spy a couple of smiles from him!

Then we're off into the middle of the crowd until we find a space to dance. One of my hands is in his while my other rests on his shoulder, his other hand loosely at my waist. I admit I'm a little tense as we begin.

"Nervous?" He asks. "A little," I admit.

"If you're nervous, this dance is over before it even begins."

"I didn't say I was nervous for me," I retort, my reward being that little smirk of his. "Cheeky. Afraid your uncle will find us?"

"For your sake, yes. But I'll enjoy the moment while it lasts, thanks."

"The same." His grip on my waist tightens as he pulls me closer. His smile mirrors my own.

"Oh no, my dear. The spotlight has always been yours." He spins me out away from him, then catches me and spins me to him with my back against him and his lips at my ear. "You're mesmerizing."

"Hmm... You're not completely horrible at this. You've even seemed to draw a crowd." He mutters to me.

Sure enough, reality is back, and she's in the form of a dozen masked faces watching us. "Never was one to stray from the spotlight. But you're like an expert at this, they must be watching your skill."

The audience politely claps. But they're a dull echo in my mind. I'm all blush as I turn my head ever so slightly towards him, our masks touching and eyes meeting. Thomas moves a stray curl behind my ear, then moves us back into a slow dance. The world tunes back in as the audience also returns to dancing.

I shake my head to clear myself out of it. "So... who is Thomas outside of charity balls?"

"Now, if you won't tell me your name, you don't get my secrets either."

"Touche."

We dance slowly for a few minutes, making idle chatter and discussing the extravagant decor. Seems we both think it's a little much. Then the music speeds up and a group dance begins. Thomas quickly explains the steps, then we're launched into partner swaps. I'm tossed to a man who smells of sickly sweet cigars with a brassy mask on, and Thomas is tossed to a woman with bright red hair in an equally bright glittery mask.

3 partners later, my feet are beginning to ache and I could go for another mimosa. I settle for sitting at a table for a moment when I'm approached by the only non-masked individual I've seen tonight.

"Uncle Moh! I've been good, I swear. Totally anonymous guest." I raise my hands in promise.

He's still in uniform, but someone must have forced a little gold bowtie on him. It's cute. He raises an eyebrow at me, "So the man you're dancing with..."

"Doesn't know my name."

Uncle Moh glances behind me, then nods and returns to his post.

"Well, you weren't kidding. He does want you to remain anonymous." A familiar voice says from right above me. Warm hands rest on my shoulders from behind, covering the straps of my dress. I get goosebumps and look up at Thomas, my head bumping his stomach.

"There you are! I did tell you I wasn't a liar."

He grins and walks around me as he brushes a hand across the back of my shoulders. "Then maybe more privacy is required. Come with me." He grabs my hand and pulls me to my feet. Okay, now I have goosebumps.

And my stomach falls through the balcony.

Thomas still has my hand in his as he leads me to a balcony overlooking part of the bay. Night fell not too long ago, and the stars are out to play. The glow of the ballroom illuminates the area.

"So, disappointed you didn't leave early? Expectations met?" I tease as we lean on the railing.

He looks at me, thinking for a moment, and something in his expression makes my heart flutter. "It has exceeded them many times over."

I bashfully tuck a curl behind my ear. "Must be a first."

Thomas takes that hand and lightly kisses my knuckles, then takes both of my hands and faces me. "You are definitely the best part of the night. I wasn't expecting to meet someone like you. There's something about you, a connection..."

I'm flustered in all sorts of ways. My heart is threatening to jump out of my chest, but I nervously chuckle, "Cryptic..."

"Bear with me. I never thought I'd feel this strongly about a, what did you call it, a 'perfect' stranger..." There's a moment where he just looks at me, studying my eyes, what he can see of my expression. "No more secrets." Then he unties his mask.

My strict, no-nonsense, seems-to-have-it-out-for-me professor is standing in front of me. The hardest person to impress, Professor Thomas Hunt.

Wait.

Sh*t.

THOMAS. HUNT.

I am an idiot.

"Disappointed?" He asks, while my jaw is all but on the floor.

I stammer. "I-I n-no, I just, uh.."

He chuckles, "It's okay if you are. But, please..." He steps forward and cups my face in his hands, "I need to know who you are..."

And then Thomas Hunt's gorgeous face is leaning towards mine, still snug in my mask. Oh, how badly I would want this in another life. Hell, how badly I want it now. But...

"Wait." I hold up my hand, his lips kissing my fingertips. "...Remove my mask first."

"Are you sure?" He whispers against my hand. Uugghhh curse you honesty.

I nod. So Thomas reaches around my head and unties my mask, which promptly falls to the ground.

I can't stop my audible gasp. It was like a physical blow to my gut, my chest. He was never one to hold back his disdain for me, why am I surprised now? He seems to notice how hard the blow hit, though. His eyes are wide but softening. "I... y-you..."

"ANNEKA!?" He physically jumps back. "How dare you!?"

"Thomas, you have to understand, I didn't know it was you-"

"Do NOT call me Thomas! You... you lied to me! You seduced me!!"

"I didn't lie! I didn't know! I thought we were having a good time, I didn't realize-"

"You didn't realize what? That I couldn't, won't be involved with a student? Let alone you!? You are the LAST person I wanted to see behind that mask!"

Without a word, I walk over my mask and begin heading for the door, before the tears can threaten me. Thomas grabs my wrist. "Wait."

I can't even look at him. But I see his legs pause, and his head turns after a moment. He speaks softly.

I pause. His grip softens. "Just wait, Anneka..."

I swallow hard before I slowly turn to face him. His expression has an uncharacteristic softness to it that I've never seen before. "That was harsher than it should have been... but this... this is a line we cannot cross. Forget this happened. Nothing changes."

Thomas lets me go and starts to walk around me towards the exit. My voice is weak when I find the strength to speak. "For what it's worth, I'm sorry..."

"... Don't be."

And then he's gone.

(Disclaimer: The original story, places, events, names, most dialogue, and all characters except for Annie belong to Pixelberry from their game Hollywood U: Rising Stars. Thank you for reading!)