Honor Thy Teacher (Honor Series) - By Mummert, Teresa Page 0,37

pictures. She looked so sad, so broken. I wanted to change that. I wanted to always make her smile, feel happiness, feel pleasure.

That night I fell asleep to her face as I drifted off on the couch. I didn’t want to sleep in my bed alone. A feeling that bothered as much as it comforted. I dreamt of her all night. We went away together where no one knew us. She was at my side everywhere I went.

“You are beautiful.” Her cheeks turned pink under the praise. “I have something for you.” She sat quietly, patiently waiting. I pulled a velvet box out that I had hidden in a drawer and held it out to her, sinking down on my knee. “Open it” She took it in her delicate fingers and slowly opened the hinged top. Her eyes glowed with excitement. “May I?” I asked, taking the box from her hand. She watched me as I pulled the leather strap from the box and fixed it around her neck. “Mine” She sat taller on her heels.

The next morning all I could think about was seeing her. I couldn’t keep myself away any more. I drove to work earlier than usual, anxious to catch a glimpse of Emma. My heart was racing like a stampede of wild horses.

I spotted her car immediately. She sat inside, her eyes searching around her. I texted her to let her know I was there.

Eager to learn Ms. Townsend?

A smile spread across her face.

You are a great teacher.

There are so many more things I would like to teach you, Emma.

I watched her get out of her car and make her way into the building. It took every ounce of self-control not to run after her. Instead, I watched her. Watched her fingers glide through her hair. Watched her hips sway gently as she walked. Watched as she disappeared out of sight. My phone beeped and my heart leapt in my throat, but it was not from Emma. It was my father. He was out on location filming a movie and wanted me to check on his property. I swallowed hard and clenched my jaw. That was all my father ever cared about, his things. He never asked how I was. We had an understanding that we would stay out of each other’s lives. That was, after he made sure I had lost the only thing I had loved a few years ago. I didn’t respond. I grabbed my belongings and made my way inside.

My classroom was empty as usual in the morning. I pulled out my laptop and began searching flights to California. Perhaps I could kill two birds with one stone and take Emma out there. It was on the complete opposite side of the country.

A knock came at the door and I quickly closed my computer.

“Come in” I shouted. The door slowly opened and Tracy stepped inside. She was in the same class as Emma. Her hair was golden blonde and long. Her skin had a deep tan. “What can I do for you Tracy?” She chewed on her lip as she pulled the door closed behind her. An action that got my attention immediately. She stepped closer, closing the distance between us.

“I was wondering if there was something I can do to help improve my grade. Maybe..some extra credit?” Her fingers traced the collar of her shirt. I splayed my hand out on the desk and rubbed the surface. She smiled seductively as she shifted her weight from one foot to the other. I stood and rounded my desk, walking towards her. Her eyes never leaving mine as her smile grew wider. I didn’t stop, walking past her to the door and pulling it open.

“I suggest you study and do your assignments.” I said, smiling back politely. She pouted but reluctantly left the room. I slammed the door behind her and leaned back against it, running my hands through my hair roughly. I was used to being hit on. That was nothing new. I just wasn’t used to turning someone down.

The rest of the morning went by quickly and I was soon anxiously awaiting Emma. The students filed in, chatting for a few minutes before taking their seats. Emma was not among them. I closed the door and began the lecture. I glanced towards the door and caught sight of her. She smiled and I knew what she wanted.

“Ms. Townsend, see me after class.” Her cheeks burned red. I was glad I had