Chapter 312: Morning Sunlight Filtered Through the Curtains

Morning sunlight filtered through the curtains as Clara Whitmore stood in the kitchen, already busy.

She deftly fried eggs and packed two bento boxes before rushing out the door.

The glass door of the lab slid open quietly under her touch. The wall clock read 7:30 AM.

The floor was silent except for the echo of her footsteps in the hallway.

The lounge door suddenly swung open.

Elias Mercer emerged holding a coffee cup, catching them both off guard. His fingers tightened around the mug as yesterday's abrupt departure flashed through his mind.

The tips of Clara's ears turned pink. She pretended to adjust her collar, masking the rapid heartbeat triggered by that unexpected memory.

"Morning." Elias's voice was deeper than usual.

"Good morning, Professor." She kept her head down, hurrying toward the lab bench—forgetting even to store the bento in the breakroom fridge.

Elias reached out. "I'll take it."

"Thanks," she mumbled without looking up, nearly fumbling the test tube in her hand.

At noon, Clara stepped out of Diligence Hall to find Connor Hayes leaning against a ginkgo tree.

His navy-blue shirt sleeves were casually rolled up, exuding effortless charm.

"Waiting long?"

Connor waved a file folder. "Just enjoying the sun."

"What's Professor Avery up to now?"

He sighed. "The old man made me draft final exam papers—answer keys included. Then he insisted you double-check them."

Clara arched a brow. "How convenient for him."

"Exactly." Connor shrugged. "I almost refused, but then I thought..."

"Hmm?"

"It's a perfect excuse to see you."

Clara nearly choked. She hastily opened the folder. "I'll review these right away."

Connor pointed to a nearby pavilion. "Let's sit there. The sun's too harsh."

"Afraid of a tan?"

"Afraid you'll burn." He naturally took her bag. "Come on."

Clara focused on the documents but kept glancing up. The glare made her squint, her lashes casting delicate shadows.

Connor shifted subtly, blocking the sunlight with his body.

Returning from the cafeteria, Elias spotted the pair in the pavilion. Connor was bent over a page, his frame nearly enveloping Clara's.