Dirty Christmas
Harlan that burned hotter than the fake fireplace flickering in the corner of the room.
Mr. Harlan, her history teacher, leaned against his desk, loosening his tie. At thirty-five, he had that rugged look, broad shoulders, stubble shadowing his jaw, eyes that lingered too long on her during lectures. The mistletoe hung innocently above the door, a joke from the faculty party earlier.
"Mr. Harlan?" Elena's voice was soft, hesitant, as she stepped closer, her boots clicking on the linoleum. She clutched a wrapped gift in her hands, red paper with a bow. "I... I got you something. For the holidays."