Next morning Alina went to staffroom. As always, she greeted everyone politely, her voice warm.
"Good morning," she said to Professor Hobb and Miss Kelly. Both of them looked up from their papers, their usual sternness softened, and for once they returned the greeting with small nods and faint smiles. It made Alina's own smile brighten.
"Good morning, Lina," Gabriel's voice came from nearby, gentle and steady. When she turned toward him, she found his eyes already on her, holding a smile that seemed to stretch from his lips to his gaze.
"Good morning, Gabs!" she replied cheerfully, setting her bag down at her desk. As she did, a few strands of her long chestnut-brown hair slipped forward, brushing against her cheeks.
Before she could tuck them back, Gabriel leaned forward slightly and with unhurried care tucked the strand behind her ear. His touch was light, respectful, but it made her pause for just a moment.
