I can't imagine it would be the sort of thing that he would pay much mind to. I may be of some renown in my own field, but like as not, I'm not even on his radar.
[Which means that if he does remain somewhere nearby, it may very well go unnoticed.]
It'll be in a cafe outside of campus. Tomorrow will be study hall for all my classes so I'm essentially free after that.
[If anything, the free time makes her feel more anxious; it means there's more room for the dead air to be filled with anxiety instead of being able to focus on teaching.
Professor Steinbeck begins to second guess the whole affair and suddenly says.]
I could ask Berna to step in. You don't have to get involved.
[It's not out of character for her, per se, to keep Dr. Dekarios at arm's length, but it is odd that she's taking it back.]
[It does strike him as just slightly strange that she would take back her concession that he might be of some help, but on the other hand—
Well, perhaps he's not the only one who has to occasionally remind himself that there's a line they've both committed themselves to not crossing. That said, offering his support in a difficult situation like this is something he would have done for any friend, he's certain— especially if it meant their academic integrity might be challenged. He'd had far too much experience in that area for his liking, and had no desire to see someone else struggle with it on their own.]
I've no doubt Berna would be more than happy to assist you, of course, close as the two of you are, but truly, I don't mind.
[He furrows his brow just slightly; that last bit strikes a chord with him, a bit closer to home than he realizes.]
It— might be good to have someone with their own connection to the university and acquaintance with our policies keeping an ear out, just in case. I have a feeling he might push for lenience regarding this issue.
[Who else could feasibly vouch for her? She's on good terms with everyone in her department, but that's just work. Yes, there are a few colleagues such as Blurg and Omeluum, but as friendly as she was with them, she respected their time too much to drag them into this situation. Professor Lens was genial, but they were just office-mates; Amelia, with some degree of shame (it keeps happening), realizes that she hasn't made any efforts to be more than professional towards her. Lens didn't owe her anything.
And really, neither does Dr. Dekarios.
His gentle insistence to be present during the meeting stirs something within her, a complex and conflicting mess of emotions that makes her purse her lips. The sheer kindness that he keeps giving Professor Steinbeck shouldn't be taken for granted and she almost had.
"I'm really happy that you like taking care of me... But you know, my parents and the doctors are in charge of that.
When I'm gone, think about how you can do the same care for yourself."
She wonders that if at some point, she had misconstrued his words to mean that she had to take care of herself. And lord, has she tried. She threw all her cards into literary academia, endured arguments with her mother over her choice in career, moved out of her childhood hometown, and saved every penny from her smaller jobs to survive and work her way up to her current position. Doing everything for herself, by herself helped to drown that white noise that made itself at home in the void within.
Had circumstances been different, Amelia would have fought Dr. Raphael over this scholarly misconduct by herself. She's not alone anymore though and it's not a fight she needs to do while ignoring her wounds.
Amelia looks at her unfinished lunch and then finally back at Gale. She takes a deep breath and nods at him.]
Thank you. For lunch and for... Well. Whatever tomorrow brings, I guess.
[Gale smiles faintly, giving a brief shake of his head. His concerns are not forgotten, but there's nothing to be done about them until they know more about what's to come— perhaps they'll get lucky and Raphael will surprise the both of them.]
You hardly need to thank me. It's my pleasure. What friends are meant to do for one another, yes?
[And if nothing else, they were friends. They had both put in the effort to be so, and despite all of the miscommunication and fumbling at the start, he thought they were doing quite well. He was grateful to have someone whose company he enjoyed so much, who shared some of his passions and was happy to share her own. Now and then, he did still think about what things might be like if their timing and circumstances hadn't been so abysmal— but only for a moment, if he could help it.
This was better for the both of them, surely. Better to remain friends than to open the door for potential heartbreak.]
Whatever tomorrow brings, you'll get through it. You're a consummate professional and a passionate educator.
As a friend, you're certainly rising up to the occasion.
[It's true; all their baggage aside with one another aside, Gale Dekarios was a really good friend. She liked being with him, appreciated the small gestures, and the respect he gave her as a fellow academic. Friendship, as Amelia needed to be reminded every so often, isn't just about similarities and enjoyment in that. It meant that at some point, someone would unequivocally would have your back when treading rougher waters.
And boy will she need that backup tomorrow.]
๐น๐โจ
[The next day arrives and the hours that lead up to lunchtime paradoxically drag on and then moves too fast. Amelia already sent the address of the cafe to Gale and arrives early. There's no sign of Dr. Raphael and so she seats herself first, taking out her phone to text her friend.]
I guess I'm being kept in suspense. If he isn't here in 15 minutes, I'm leaving.
I think that's more than fair. It's the same policy our classes hold us to, after all.
[Gale is paused on the walk out in front of the cafรฉ as he returns her message, smiling a bit to himself as he does so.]
If he's fool enough to stand you up, we'll simply have to make the most of the outing ourselves. I have it on good authority this place makes a lovely chocolate croissant.
[He heads into the cafรฉ proper then, easily spotting Amelia the moment the door swings open thanks to that vibrant red hair, and catches her gaze just long enough to give her a small, reserved nod of confirmation before spots an empty table not too far from her own— close enough that he'll be well within range should he need to provide her with a quick excuse for an escape, but not so close as to be hovering.
He seats himself so that he's slightly angled away from her; if Raphael arrives and they're caught looking at one another, he'll reveal himself too easily, and so he pulls a book from the bag he's set on the chair beside him and opens it, leaving his phone face-up in front of him in order to be able to catch any incoming messages.
While neither of them knows what to expect, he has the distinct feeling that it's going to be a good thing that Amelia thought to allow a friendly witness to listen in.]
[Over time, Amelia's texts with Gale have shown she does have an intentional sense of humor, but it is still indistinguishable from her dry manner. This one almost, almost sounds like teasing.]
I'll try out the croissant after this depending on my mood. For now, chamomile tea because I sense my nerves are going to betray me.
[It's still hard to tell at times, even with as much time as they've come to spend together, but he's almost certain she's having a go at him— and suddenly, he's very glad his face is turned away as he feels heat creeping into his face.]
It would almost certainly be more fun than the discussion to come, but the matter is an important one. I can admit that it is better solved sooner rather than later, and nothing more.
[Notably, however, he has not turned down the offer of her company even once since this friendship venture of theirs had started.]
Deep breaths. You've handled this with professionalism and grace thus far, even in the face of a student making thinly-veiled threats while very clearly in the wrong. You have the high ground.
[And it's probably a good thing she doesn't see his face heating up because then she would have thought that she Messed Up.
(He's strangely bashful about certain things and Amelia doesn't hate it).]
It remains to be seen if I'll retain the high ground when I'm very tempted to kick people off of it.
[There's no time to continue quipping with Dr. Dekarios. A well-dressed man with slicked back hair, leisurely strides up to her table. The young professor pockets her phone and nods in acknowledgement.]
Sir.
"Professor Steinbeck! Thank you for agreeing to meet with me during your free time. I am, as you are assuming correctly, Dr. Raphael. It's quite the pleasure to make your acquaintance."
[Amelia shifts in her seat as Dr. Raphael pulls out the chair for himself. His voice had a smooth quality that made her feel uneasy, though she was never comfortable with anyone who tried to get into her good graces whether directly, or indirectly. Her presumption about him seemed to be on the money; he was a smooth talker.]
Thank you, Dr. Raphael, for inviting me out in the first place. I hope making time for me in your schedule hasn't caused you too much trouble.
[The dean chuckles, casually glancing over the menu that stands in the small stand on their table.]
"You are exactly as your fellow colleagues and students say; composed and professional. Perhaps to a fault? I'm finding it charming already."
[Some would find that to be a warm compliment and a perfectly welcome way to express admiration. Amelia, however...]
Let's order some drinks and we can continue our discussion as per your email.
[She isn't one to be buttered up, that's for certain.]
[Gale catches a glimpse of Dr. Raphael as he enters the cafรฉ; the man is precisely as he remembers him, sharply dressed and well put-together, with an air of confidence bordering on smug, not unlike the way Gale himself may have carried himself once upon a time. Though he and Dr. Raphael don't know one another well, they've met enough times that Gale is almost certain the other man would know him on sight if he had a few moments to piece things together, and so he angles himself away and busies himself with his book, resting an elbow against the table and the side of his face against his fist as he prepares to listen.
Amelia is, as ever, composed and direct. He's been fortunate enough to see her tease, see the occasional smile, but it hadn't taken him long to figure out that the stern, hard-edged way she presented herself hadn't been only for his benefit, when she'd been intent on their remaining strangers. It seemed to be a carefully-crafted facade, though not entirely disingenuous, and at least partly born of her desire to be taken as seriously as she herself took her work— but he had begun to think there was something more to it, as well, now that he'd had the opportunity to see her interact with a number of students and colleagues alike.
Amelia was careful. Careful of what she said, and careful not to allow herself to appear vulnerable at any given point, if she could help it. He had wondered more than once what must have happened to make her feel she had to wall herself off so entirely. People did not become so guarded by accident— but it was hardly his place to ask.
The corner of his mouth twitches against his will when he hears the dean introduce himself properly, laying it on even more thickly than Gale might have expected for someone of his reputation, and he finds himself scowling into his book when he goes so far as to call Amelia charming.
Charming? Well, yes, she certainly could be, but he needn't know that, and it was far from professional to say so, especially considering the grave topic they had to discuss. He sets his jaw as he listens further; from behind, Amelia will be able to see his shoulders go tense and square beneath his sweater, and he sits up just a bit straighter, alert.]
[The ensuing conversation begins as perfunctory and basic. The dean orders for the both of them, a sparkling water for himself, Professor Steinbeck a chamomile tea. Throughout it all, she sits with her back straight and not a hair out of place, and nothing in her expression to betray her actual thoughts.
She was absolutely being careful. Growing up, she had a temper, befitting, if not stereotypical of a redhead (which ironically, her father never had as far as she knew, despite inheriting the physical trait from him). It has gotten her into trouble more than once and thus, Amelia's life beyond college was spent sharpening that professional image to the point where the line between work and her personal affairs was very well defined.
But one can only remain immovable for so long. Dr. Raphael, has his own storied career that continues to this day and that length of time has allowed him the privilege of understanding different types of people. And much to Professor Steinbeck's misfortune, he definitely knew her type.
Soon, their talk turns to what they were both there for; the problem student. There's a review of events, a bit of back and forth...]
... Plagiarizing, as you are more than well aware of, Dr. Raphael, is grounds for expulsion.
"True, but we don't have to make a whole performance around one instance of it, Professor. Before I became a dean, I too dealt with such circumstances. Flexibility, you see, is much more beneficial to students' well being rather than being quick to punish."
[They're getting nowhere. Amelia's tea has cooled down at this point and she's tapping her finger on the table impatiently.]
Are you suggesting that I'm being inflexible, sir?
[Raphael chuckles and leans back in his seat, head shaking.]
"My dear, I'm suggesting nothing of the sort. I believe you can demonstrate flexibility if you'll allow me to expand on my side.
... You may continue.
[The dean lazily swirls the remains of his beverage in his glass.]
"Professors as fresh as you are, are so diligent. You have much to prove in order to justify your place in this esteemed university. Of course it wouldn't look good if a student in your course got away with rule breaking."
Your point, Dr. Raphael?
"Simple, my dear Professor. I can ensure your reputation remains as is. Something like this is easy to wave away with the right person passing along the right word."
[Gale's teeth clench hard enough that he feels the strain in his jaw. The university, in fact, had a zero tolerance policy regarding academic dishonesty, as most did, and to hear Dr. Raphael try to flout it so brazenly made him bristle. That Professor Steinbeck was willing to make the effort to discuss the situation and potentially help the student in question was more than most would do, and certainly more than was expected, and Gale's irritation regarding the blatant disregard for the university's policies by one of its own deans is almost enough to make him interject right then and there— but it wouldn't do Amelia any favors if he did so.
What follows, however, has him even further on edge. What, exactly, was the dean intending to ask for in exchange for such a favor? For passing on the right word? It's not the sort of thing he can imagine Amelia being willing to bargain for in the first place, but more than that, the condescending tone the the dean has taken with her has Gale gripping his book just a little too tightly. There's a cup of coffee in front of him now that he had ordered a few minutes earlier, but it may as well not be there. He's not interested in anything regarding his own table.
Tense, he continues to listen— depending on how Dr. Raphael proceeds, he may find himself forced to intervene sooner rather than later, but it is important not to undermine Professor Steinbeck's ability to speak her mind.]
[There's a flash of anger in her eyes, but she's yet to act upon it and has forced down the urge for trembling fury to show in her fingers. Her voice is barely above the level of pure ice as she replies to the dean.]
Waving away the problem sounds most convenient, but I did not work my way through this career path by avoiding inconvenience. Or in this case, turning a blind eye to it. Get to your point, Dr. Raphael.
[Dr. Raphael sets down his glass shaking his head, his expression remaining smugly placid.]
"Brevity it is then. Here's the situation, Professor."
[He leans forward elbows resting on the table, fingers intertwined and making eye contact with her.]
"Our student in question comes from a distinguished family from the upper echelons of Baldur's Gate. You know the kind, yes? Old money, titled, well-established. Generous contributors to several departments including your own. They wouldn't be happy to hear that one of their own has been reprimanded so harshly. In fact, someone would have to answer for it."
[Amelia is staring at Raphael in disbelief.]
Are you implying what I think you're implying?
[A brow of his raises up imperiously.]
"Someone here is the weakest link and I think you know who it is."
[Oh, she's mad now, mad enough to forget that Gale was there to witness this discussion and she stands up, slamming her hands on the table which attracts some attention from the other customers. Dr. Raphael, hardly looks taken aback. In fact, he looks pleased for this turn in events as Professor Steinbeck hisses back.]
You would dare wouldn't you? Do you think I was going to fold? I don't care about old money, connections, and the like. I don't respect meddlers and you can be damn certain that I will rain down repercussions. Consequences be damned, I am not going down without rightfully dragging down the rest of you.
"No need to make a scene, my dear. And is that a threat? On that grounds I couldโ"
Edited (quotation marks missing ) 2024-08-10 04:23 (UTC)
[The time for listening was through. Amelia's anger had kept her from noticing as Gale approached the table with his arms folded, and while he made every effort to remain collected, his own fury was evident in the tense set of his shoulders, the clench of his jaw, his gaze unusually hard and unblinking.]
How very fortunate that I just so happened to be present to overhear you threatening her first.
[Dr. Raphael had not needed to say the words themselves out loud— what he intended to leverage against Professor Steinbeck was crystal clear, and all present knew it.
The dean arches a brow once more, only a passing glimpse of surprise fleeting across his otherwise composed features as he leans back in his seat, fingers steepled in front of him.]
"Dr. Dekarios, what a happy coincidence. It isn't very gentlemanly of you to eavesdrop on someone else's lunch meeting."
[Gale looks unbothered by the accusation, his firm stance remaining.]
Consider I've heard you threatening a colleague for simply adhering to the university's own policies, I don't feel I'm the one whose manners need addressing. That you would ask any member of our faculty to turn a blind eye to academic dishonesty is shameful, though I've begun to think shame is not a feeling you are well-acquainted with.
[The dean gives a faint click of his tongue, shaking his head as he remains comfortably seated, one leg crossed over the other.]
"I'd heard that you were self-righteous, but it is quite something to see in action. You're Dr. Manx's discarded lapdog, aren't you? I suppose you ought to know a great deal about shame, in that case, and that your own academic integrity has been called into question. It would be truly awful if that great 'discovery' of yours is proven to be the result of someone else's work. I hardly need a lecture from either of you; this university does not run itself. Now and then, we must bend the rules— where do you think your salaries come from?"
[For a moment, Gale looks as though he's been stricken across the face, but he rallies to stand his ground.]
If we're taking mere rumor as fact, then I've heard of a great number about you that I'm sure the chancellor would be very interested to hear— it would seem this isn't the only rule you've been keen on bending.
[Dr. Dekarios' interjection shouldn't have come as a surprise to her, but when it does happen, Amelia's eyes widen slightly. In all the time she's known him so far, she had never seen him angry before and finds herself at a loss for words as he confronts Dr. Raphael directly.
A foreign type of relief floods the professor's mind, the burden of fighting this battle alone lifted. Even in the face of his own mistakes and the venom being thrown at him, Dr. Dekarios doesn't relent for her sake. She always approached every situation as a conflict to be solved by herself because that was what she expected of herself.
(He keeps extending himself for her and it makes everything what's between that much more difficult to untangle.).
Amelia swallows, composes herself, and sits down with her arms crossed.]
Well, I don't think you can accurately call me a weak link anymore, Dr. Raphael.
[Raphael gives a low and contemplative hum and crosses one leg over his knee.]
"Indeed. You've quite the fortune to have a white knight come to your aid Professor. I almost thought you would try to resolve this all by yourself."
[He was probably counting on it too. But with Gale as witness and the prospect of the chancellor's involvement, it's clear that Raphael's position is starting to teeter towards precarious.
There's little need to drag this out.]
I believe our meeting is done.
[The details of whatever happens next is negligible in the moment. What matters is that she can't be removed so easily.]
[Raphael narrows his gaze at the both of them, irritation thinly veiled. This meeting may be done, but it is clear that he is not— for as inclined as he had been towards leniency for the student's sake, now his own pride had been made part of the equation.]
"For now. I'll be happy to remind the both of you of this exchange when your insistence on inflexibility brings forth consequences, Professor Steinbeck."
[He has no doubt that there will be retaliation in the way of pulled funding, but he'll not harp on that now. He reaches for his bag and rises to his feet, looking none too pleased with the situation, and his gaze comes to rest steadily on Dr. Dekarios for what feels like a few moments too long.
He knows full well precisely which rumors the astrophysicist had been implying.]
"As for you, Dr. Dekarios, I would take great care when it comes to putting that nose of yours where it doesn't belong. Don't think I don't know a threat when I hear one. You're the youngest professor this university has ever seen on the tenure-track, I believe. It would be a terrible shame if something were to get in your way when you're so very close."
[Gale smiles thinly, and it lacks any of his usual warmth; though it takes effort, he has no interest in allowing himself to appear intimidated, and holds tightly to his composure.]
I suggest that all involved keep their noses clean, then. I can't say I'm particularly worried.
[Raphael looks at him a moment longer before letting out a brief, ominous 'hm' and turning to take his leave, leaving the two professors in his wake as the door of the cafรฉ closes behind him.
The moment he's gone, Gale exhales soundly, seeming to deflate as his shoulders drop and that steely resolve fades away, immediately softening him. He looks to Amelia, apologetic.]
You did the right thing, standing your ground. I apologize for interfering— I realize you're fully capable of fighting your own battles, but the audacity of that man, threatening your position when he didn't have a gods bedamned leg to stand on.
[That anger of his hasn't entirely faded after all, his brow furrowed.]
[Well. That happened. Amelia watches as Raphael takes his leave and only when he completely disappears from view does she inhale deeply through her nostrils and then exhales through her lips.
It was a harrowing situation and she feels like they've scraped by. Her mind needs a minute to process everything that just went down, but first... The professor straightens her back and smooths out the wrinkled fabric on her lap. And then she clears her throat.]
... Thank you.
[How else is she supposed to reply? She's used up so much energy and so much of her own anger on the dean; that less than clean ending to the conversation and the weight of Gale's contribution makes her feel spent.
And a simple 'thank you' wasn't enough. Not at all. Amelia looks away from his gaze and purses her lips.]
It's been a terrible afternoon for the both of us, even if that ended as well as it could have.
[His brows are knit with worry, even as she turns her gaze away, and he can feel the faint numbness that always comes after a surge of adrenaline starting to set in.
Surely, there were going to be consequences of some sort, but he doesn't regret stepping in. Amelia had been in the right, and Dr. Raphael's air of self-importance had always sat ill with him. Once he had begun to make threats, Gale doesn't know that he could have stayed sitting still even if he wanted to.]
Are you alright?
[A few other patrons had been looking their way, but most have begun to turn their attention back to their lunches now that the scene has calmed.]
Your place at this university is well-deserved. I hope this whole mess hasn't made you doubt that for even a moment, Amelia.
[Or more, to be honest. He has to wonder precisely what Dr. Raphael knows about certain aspects of his life, past or present, but there's no use worrying about that now.]
It must be five o'clock somewhere. A clichรฉ, I know, but for good reason.
[She takes out her phone and sends the location to Gale. And with that, she pockets it and then stands up primly.]
See you there.
[Her thoughts don't show on her face; perhaps it's a tad unusual after such an emotionally and mentally taxing confrontation. Then again, Professor Steinbeck had a knack for gathering herself to the point where one could hardly tell something happened at all.
But there's probably some meaning to her inviting Dr. Dekarios out like this. Maybe. He'll just have to see.]
[He nods in agreement, and shortly after, they part ways. It makes sense enough that she might need a bit of time to breathe after such an encounter, in addition to tying up any loose ends from earlier in the day, and he has a few ends that need some quick tending to, himself.
If he stops to subtly freshen up and run his fingers through his hair before meeting her, what's the harm?
He arrives shortly before she does, helping himself to a seat at the bar to wait, letting the bartender know he's waiting for a friend and that he'll order once she arrives. In the meantime, he takes a moment to text Tara and let her know he'll be off-campus for the afternoon and that he'll fill her in at breakfast the following morning— no doubt she'll be thrilled to hear that Dean Raphael had been forced to back down, at least for now.]
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sunfloras2024-01-21 09:17 pm
no subject
[Which means that if he does remain somewhere nearby, it may very well go unnoticed.]
Did he say where he wishes to meet?
no subject
[If anything, the free time makes her feel more anxious; it means there's more room for the dead air to be filled with anxiety instead of being able to focus on teaching.
Professor Steinbeck begins to second guess the whole affair and suddenly says.]
I could ask Berna to step in. You don't have to get involved.
[It's not out of character for her, per se, to keep Dr. Dekarios at arm's length, but it is odd that she's taking it back.]
It might be more trouble than it's worth.
[I might be more trouble than I'm worth.]
no subject
Well, perhaps he's not the only one who has to occasionally remind himself that there's a line they've both committed themselves to not crossing. That said, offering his support in a difficult situation like this is something he would have done for any friend, he's certain— especially if it meant their academic integrity might be challenged. He'd had far too much experience in that area for his liking, and had no desire to see someone else struggle with it on their own.]
I've no doubt Berna would be more than happy to assist you, of course, close as the two of you are, but truly, I don't mind.
[He furrows his brow just slightly; that last bit strikes a chord with him, a bit closer to home than he realizes.]
It— might be good to have someone with their own connection to the university and acquaintance with our policies keeping an ear out, just in case. I have a feeling he might push for lenience regarding this issue.
no subject
I wasn't thinking.
[Who else could feasibly vouch for her? She's on good terms with everyone in her department, but that's just work. Yes, there are a few colleagues such as Blurg and Omeluum, but as friendly as she was with them, she respected their time too much to drag them into this situation. Professor Lens was genial, but they were just office-mates; Amelia, with some degree of shame (it keeps happening), realizes that she hasn't made any efforts to be more than professional towards her. Lens didn't owe her anything.
And really, neither does Dr. Dekarios.
His gentle insistence to be present during the meeting stirs something within her, a complex and conflicting mess of emotions that makes her purse her lips. The sheer kindness that he keeps giving Professor Steinbeck shouldn't be taken for granted and she almost had.
She wonders that if at some point, she had misconstrued his words to mean that she had to take care of herself. And lord, has she tried. She threw all her cards into literary academia, endured arguments with her mother over her choice in career, moved out of her childhood hometown, and saved every penny from her smaller jobs to survive and work her way up to her current position. Doing everything for herself, by herself helped to drown that white noise that made itself at home in the void within.
Had circumstances been different, Amelia would have fought Dr. Raphael over this scholarly misconduct by herself. She's not alone anymore though and it's not a fight she needs to do while ignoring her wounds.
Amelia looks at her unfinished lunch and then finally back at Gale. She takes a deep breath and nods at him.]
Thank you. For lunch and for... Well. Whatever tomorrow brings, I guess.
no subject
You hardly need to thank me. It's my pleasure. What friends are meant to do for one another, yes?
[And if nothing else, they were friends. They had both put in the effort to be so, and despite all of the miscommunication and fumbling at the start, he thought they were doing quite well. He was grateful to have someone whose company he enjoyed so much, who shared some of his passions and was happy to share her own. Now and then, he did still think about what things might be like if their timing and circumstances hadn't been so abysmal— but only for a moment, if he could help it.
This was better for the both of them, surely. Better to remain friends than to open the door for potential heartbreak.]
Whatever tomorrow brings, you'll get through it. You're a consummate professional and a passionate educator.
timeskip
[It's true; all their baggage aside with one another aside, Gale Dekarios was a really good friend. She liked being with him, appreciated the small gestures, and the respect he gave her as a fellow academic. Friendship, as Amelia needed to be reminded every so often, isn't just about similarities and enjoyment in that. It meant that at some point, someone would unequivocally would have your back when treading rougher waters.
And boy will she need that backup tomorrow.]
[The next day arrives and the hours that lead up to lunchtime paradoxically drag on and then moves too fast. Amelia already sent the address of the cafe to Gale and arrives early. There's no sign of Dr. Raphael and so she seats herself first, taking out her phone to text her friend.]
I guess I'm being kept in suspense. If he isn't here in 15 minutes, I'm leaving.
no subject
[Gale is paused on the walk out in front of the cafรฉ as he returns her message, smiling a bit to himself as he does so.]
If he's fool enough to stand you up, we'll simply have to make the most of the outing ourselves. I have it on good authority this place makes a lovely chocolate croissant.
[He heads into the cafรฉ proper then, easily spotting Amelia the moment the door swings open thanks to that vibrant red hair, and catches her gaze just long enough to give her a small, reserved nod of confirmation before spots an empty table not too far from her own— close enough that he'll be well within range should he need to provide her with a quick excuse for an escape, but not so close as to be hovering.
He seats himself so that he's slightly angled away from her; if Raphael arrives and they're caught looking at one another, he'll reveal himself too easily, and so he pulls a book from the bag he's set on the chair beside him and opens it, leaving his phone face-up in front of him in order to be able to catch any incoming messages.
While neither of them knows what to expect, he has the distinct feeling that it's going to be a good thing that Amelia thought to allow a friendly witness to listen in.]
no subject
[Over time, Amelia's texts with Gale have shown she does have an intentional sense of humor, but it is still indistinguishable from her dry manner. This one almost, almost sounds like teasing.]
I'll try out the croissant after this depending on my mood. For now, chamomile tea because I sense my nerves are going to betray me.
no subject
It would almost certainly be more fun than the discussion to come, but the matter is an important one. I can admit that it is better solved sooner rather than later, and nothing more.
[Notably, however, he has not turned down the offer of her company even once since this friendship venture of theirs had started.]
Deep breaths. You've handled this with professionalism and grace thus far, even in the face of a student making thinly-veiled threats while very clearly in the wrong. You have the high ground.
no subject
(He's strangely bashful about certain things and Amelia doesn't hate it).]
It remains to be seen if I'll retain the high ground when I'm very tempted to kick people off of it.
[There's no time to continue quipping with Dr. Dekarios. A well-dressed man with slicked back hair, leisurely strides up to her table. The young professor pockets her phone and nods in acknowledgement.]
Sir.
[Amelia shifts in her seat as Dr. Raphael pulls out the chair for himself. His voice had a smooth quality that made her feel uneasy, though she was never comfortable with anyone who tried to get into her good graces whether directly, or indirectly. Her presumption about him seemed to be on the money; he was a smooth talker.]
Thank you, Dr. Raphael, for inviting me out in the first place. I hope making time for me in your schedule hasn't caused you too much trouble.
[The dean chuckles, casually glancing over the menu that stands in the small stand on their table.]
[Some would find that to be a warm compliment and a perfectly welcome way to express admiration. Amelia, however...]
Let's order some drinks and we can continue our discussion as per your email.
[She isn't one to be buttered up, that's for certain.]
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Amelia is, as ever, composed and direct. He's been fortunate enough to see her tease, see the occasional smile, but it hadn't taken him long to figure out that the stern, hard-edged way she presented herself hadn't been only for his benefit, when she'd been intent on their remaining strangers. It seemed to be a carefully-crafted facade, though not entirely disingenuous, and at least partly born of her desire to be taken as seriously as she herself took her work— but he had begun to think there was something more to it, as well, now that he'd had the opportunity to see her interact with a number of students and colleagues alike.
Amelia was careful. Careful of what she said, and careful not to allow herself to appear vulnerable at any given point, if she could help it. He had wondered more than once what must have happened to make her feel she had to wall herself off so entirely. People did not become so guarded by accident— but it was hardly his place to ask.
The corner of his mouth twitches against his will when he hears the dean introduce himself properly, laying it on even more thickly than Gale might have expected for someone of his reputation, and he finds himself scowling into his book when he goes so far as to call Amelia charming.
Charming? Well, yes, she certainly could be, but he needn't know that, and it was far from professional to say so, especially considering the grave topic they had to discuss. He sets his jaw as he listens further; from behind, Amelia will be able to see his shoulders go tense and square beneath his sweater, and he sits up just a bit straighter, alert.]
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She was absolutely being careful. Growing up, she had a temper, befitting, if not stereotypical of a redhead (which ironically, her father never had as far as she knew, despite inheriting the physical trait from him). It has gotten her into trouble more than once and thus, Amelia's life beyond college was spent sharpening that professional image to the point where the line between work and her personal affairs was very well defined.
But one can only remain immovable for so long. Dr. Raphael, has his own storied career that continues to this day and that length of time has allowed him the privilege of understanding different types of people. And much to Professor Steinbeck's misfortune, he definitely knew her type.
Soon, their talk turns to what they were both there for; the problem student. There's a review of events, a bit of back and forth...]
... Plagiarizing, as you are more than well aware of, Dr. Raphael, is grounds for expulsion.
[They're getting nowhere. Amelia's tea has cooled down at this point and she's tapping her finger on the table impatiently.]
Are you suggesting that I'm being inflexible, sir?
[Raphael chuckles and leans back in his seat, head shaking.]
... You may continue.
[The dean lazily swirls the remains of his beverage in his glass.]
Your point, Dr. Raphael?
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What follows, however, has him even further on edge. What, exactly, was the dean intending to ask for in exchange for such a favor? For passing on the right word? It's not the sort of thing he can imagine Amelia being willing to bargain for in the first place, but more than that, the condescending tone the the dean has taken with her has Gale gripping his book just a little too tightly. There's a cup of coffee in front of him now that he had ordered a few minutes earlier, but it may as well not be there. He's not interested in anything regarding his own table.
Tense, he continues to listen— depending on how Dr. Raphael proceeds, he may find himself forced to intervene sooner rather than later, but it is important not to undermine Professor Steinbeck's ability to speak her mind.]
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Waving away the problem sounds most convenient, but I did not work my way through this career path by avoiding inconvenience. Or in this case, turning a blind eye to it. Get to your point, Dr. Raphael.
[Dr. Raphael sets down his glass shaking his head, his expression remaining smugly placid.]
[He leans forward elbows resting on the table, fingers intertwined and making eye contact with her.]
[Amelia is staring at Raphael in disbelief.]
Are you implying what I think you're implying?
[A brow of his raises up imperiously.]
[Oh, she's mad now, mad enough to forget that Gale was there to witness this discussion and she stands up, slamming her hands on the table which attracts some attention from the other customers. Dr. Raphael, hardly looks taken aback. In fact, he looks pleased for this turn in events as Professor Steinbeck hisses back.]
You would dare wouldn't you? Do you think I was going to fold? I don't care about old money, connections, and the like. I don't respect meddlers and you can be damn certain that I will rain down repercussions. Consequences be damned, I am not going down without rightfully dragging down the rest of you.
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[The time for listening was through. Amelia's anger had kept her from noticing as Gale approached the table with his arms folded, and while he made every effort to remain collected, his own fury was evident in the tense set of his shoulders, the clench of his jaw, his gaze unusually hard and unblinking.]
How very fortunate that I just so happened to be present to overhear you threatening her first.
[Dr. Raphael had not needed to say the words themselves out loud— what he intended to leverage against Professor Steinbeck was crystal clear, and all present knew it.
The dean arches a brow once more, only a passing glimpse of surprise fleeting across his otherwise composed features as he leans back in his seat, fingers steepled in front of him.]
[Gale looks unbothered by the accusation, his firm stance remaining.]
Consider I've heard you threatening a colleague for simply adhering to the university's own policies, I don't feel I'm the one whose manners need addressing. That you would ask any member of our faculty to turn a blind eye to academic dishonesty is shameful, though I've begun to think shame is not a feeling you are well-acquainted with.
[The dean gives a faint click of his tongue, shaking his head as he remains comfortably seated, one leg crossed over the other.]
[For a moment, Gale looks as though he's been stricken across the face, but he rallies to stand his ground.]
If we're taking mere rumor as fact, then I've heard of a great number about you that I'm sure the chancellor would be very interested to hear— it would seem this isn't the only rule you've been keen on bending.
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A foreign type of relief floods the professor's mind, the burden of fighting this battle alone lifted. Even in the face of his own mistakes and the venom being thrown at him, Dr. Dekarios doesn't relent for her sake. She always approached every situation as a conflict to be solved by herself because that was what she expected of herself.
(He keeps extending himself for her and it makes everything what's between that much more difficult to untangle.).
Amelia swallows, composes herself, and sits down with her arms crossed.]
Well, I don't think you can accurately call me a weak link anymore, Dr. Raphael.
[Raphael gives a low and contemplative hum and crosses one leg over his knee.]
[He was probably counting on it too. But with Gale as witness and the prospect of the chancellor's involvement, it's clear that Raphael's position is starting to teeter towards precarious.
There's little need to drag this out.]
I believe our meeting is done.
[The details of whatever happens next is negligible in the moment. What matters is that she can't be removed so easily.]
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[He has no doubt that there will be retaliation in the way of pulled funding, but he'll not harp on that now. He reaches for his bag and rises to his feet, looking none too pleased with the situation, and his gaze comes to rest steadily on Dr. Dekarios for what feels like a few moments too long.
He knows full well precisely which rumors the astrophysicist had been implying.]
[Gale smiles thinly, and it lacks any of his usual warmth; though it takes effort, he has no interest in allowing himself to appear intimidated, and holds tightly to his composure.]
I suggest that all involved keep their noses clean, then. I can't say I'm particularly worried.
[Raphael looks at him a moment longer before letting out a brief, ominous 'hm' and turning to take his leave, leaving the two professors in his wake as the door of the cafรฉ closes behind him.
The moment he's gone, Gale exhales soundly, seeming to deflate as his shoulders drop and that steely resolve fades away, immediately softening him. He looks to Amelia, apologetic.]
You did the right thing, standing your ground. I apologize for interfering— I realize you're fully capable of fighting your own battles, but the audacity of that man, threatening your position when he didn't have a gods bedamned leg to stand on.
[That anger of his hasn't entirely faded after all, his brow furrowed.]
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It was a harrowing situation and she feels like they've scraped by. Her mind needs a minute to process everything that just went down, but first... The professor straightens her back and smooths out the wrinkled fabric on her lap. And then she clears her throat.]
... Thank you.
[How else is she supposed to reply? She's used up so much energy and so much of her own anger on the dean; that less than clean ending to the conversation and the weight of Gale's contribution makes her feel spent.
And a simple 'thank you' wasn't enough. Not at all. Amelia looks away from his gaze and purses her lips.]
It's been a terrible afternoon for the both of us, even if that ended as well as it could have.
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Surely, there were going to be consequences of some sort, but he doesn't regret stepping in. Amelia had been in the right, and Dr. Raphael's air of self-importance had always sat ill with him. Once he had begun to make threats, Gale doesn't know that he could have stayed sitting still even if he wanted to.]
Are you alright?
[A few other patrons had been looking their way, but most have begun to turn their attention back to their lunches now that the scene has calmed.]
Your place at this university is well-deserved. I hope this whole mess hasn't made you doubt that for even a moment, Amelia.
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I need a drink.
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I could use one, myself.
[Or more, to be honest. He has to wonder precisely what Dr. Raphael knows about certain aspects of his life, past or present, but there's no use worrying about that now.]
It must be five o'clock somewhere. A clichรฉ, I know, but for good reason.
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[There's an awkward pause, a lull after his reply to her. And then Amelia holds up her index finger.]
One.
[She continues not to make eye contact with Gale, but her cheeks are very visibly turning pink.]
You can have one drink with me.
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The limitation is fair, he supposes, given what had happened the last time they drank together. Boundaries, and all.]
Of course. Just one— at the establishment of your choice.
[That seems more than fair.]
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[She takes out her phone and sends the location to Gale. And with that, she pockets it and then stands up primly.]
See you there.
[Her thoughts don't show on her face; perhaps it's a tad unusual after such an emotionally and mentally taxing confrontation. Then again, Professor Steinbeck had a knack for gathering herself to the point where one could hardly tell something happened at all.
But there's probably some meaning to her inviting Dr. Dekarios out like this. Maybe. He'll just have to see.]
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[He nods in agreement, and shortly after, they part ways. It makes sense enough that she might need a bit of time to breathe after such an encounter, in addition to tying up any loose ends from earlier in the day, and he has a few ends that need some quick tending to, himself.
If he stops to subtly freshen up and run his fingers through his hair before meeting her, what's the harm?
He arrives shortly before she does, helping himself to a seat at the bar to wait, letting the bartender know he's waiting for a friend and that he'll order once she arrives. In the meantime, he takes a moment to text Tara and let her know he'll be off-campus for the afternoon and that he'll fill her in at breakfast the following morning— no doubt she'll be thrilled to hear that Dean Raphael had been forced to back down, at least for now.]
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