Page 50 of Silver Fox's Baby

Aiden

“Ineverwant to step in when it comes to issues like this,” Dr. Lewis says, his tone sharp and unforgiving. “But this is clearly out of hand.”

I bristle at the condescension in his expression. “Absolutely nothing happened. I was stepping in to help a student being harassed. I would’ve had the same reaction regardless of whether or not they were my TA.”

I fight to keep my composure. My blood is still boiling, and I’m still primed to punch someone at the merethoughtof what I heard those boys saying to Melody. Had Dr. Lewis not shown up, I might’ve been hauled out of there by the police.

“I understand what your intentions were, but the basis of the harassment stems from the rumors floating around that you and your TA’s relationship is more than professional.”

“It’s not. I have never crossed the line with a student before, and I will not ever do that.”

Dr. Lewis sighs, pacing the space behind his desk. “I know that, Aiden. You’ve never been a professor that I’ve had to keep a close eye on, but these rumors are vicious. They’re damaging to you, to her, and to the university. We already have a shitstorm over Dr. Brewer.”

I see where he’s coming from, I do, but my exasperation toward the situation is nearly drowning me on the spot.

I turned down a woman that I would’ve fucked mercilessly for this very reason.

And it’s still coming back to bite me.

“I don’t know what to tell you.” I sigh. “I’m not crossing any lines with Ms. Everett. She’s a very bright young woman, and she works hard. She’s really picked up the slack for me.”

He purses his lips, appearing to mull over my words. “I’m not trying to mess up whatever arrangement you have, but unfortunately, she is notjusta TA for you. She’s also a student in one of your classes, and that’s why I can’t overlook this.”

“Nothing has happened between us. She’s almost twenty years younger than me.”

“That hasn’t stopped anyone before. You’d be surprised at the age gaps. Dr. Brewer was young, but I’ve seen gaps of almost forty years.”

I can’t hide the borderline disgust. I already think she is too young for me, regardless of how much I want her. But what would possess anyone to think it is okay to have relations with students old enough to be their grandchildren?

“Listen, Aiden.” Dr. Lewis sighs, stopping to lean his hands against the top of his desk. “I don’t think that you’re necessarily engaging in any sort of sexual relations with her, I don’t. You know that would be a means for termination, and I don’t think you’d take that risk. However, Idothink you hired her for some other reason than just the fact you need help.”

I bite down hard on the inside of my cheek as his eyes scrutinize my face. “I’m going through a tough time with my son and ex-wife.”

“I know that, but why choose to hire a current student as a TA? I saw her failing grades. She’s not the ideal candidate. You didn’t even put up a job posting or offer interviews.”

Shit. He’s done his research.

I gather my thoughts. It seems like no matter what, I’m not going to win this conversation.

“Your truthfulness will go a long way, Dr. Banks.”

“I hired her because she’s a hard worker, and prior to taking the job for me, she was working two jobs, which is the reason she was failing my class. I saw an opportunity to help a student of mine in need, and it also served to help me as well.” It’s basically the truth.

Her grading papers has provided me with a lot more time to focus on actual coursework and have free evenings with Connor.

“I see.” Dr. Lewis lets out a sharp exhale. “I had a feeling it was something honorable, and because of that, I hate to make this suggestion, but...”

I already know what he’s going to say.

“I think you should find another TA. If Ms. Everett is the hard worker you say she is, then you should have no problem finding another professor to take her in under their wing.”

But they won’t pay her like I do.

“I am paying her out of my own pocket.” I hold my ground as my knees start to feel weak beneath me. “I don’t know if she will be able to sustain herself and her brother if there is a change in that compensation.”

His eyebrows shoot up. “Ah, I see what you’re doing.” He pops his jaw and then shakes his head. “As much as I truly admire you for helping her out to such a degree as to support her on your own dime, I still stand by my suggestion. Now.” He pauses.“The board has not learned of such matters, so this is a meresuggestioncoming from me as more of a friend than anything else, but still, I would seriously consider it.”

“Thank you.” I force the words out, even though it all feels a little backhanded. “I’ll consider your suggestion.”

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