The Art Teacher | Carlisle Cullen X OC

Chapter 3 | Absent and Concerned

The sun cast its warm embrace through the tall windows of the art classroom as Eloise prepared for another day of inspiration and creativity. With a stack of papers in hand, she moved gracefully between rows of empty desks, her purpose clear as she set about the task of taking attendance.

Yet, as she methodically scanned the room, her heart sank at the conspicuous absence of one student – Edward Cullen. A furrow formed between her brows as she mentally retraced the morning's events, searching for any indication of Edward's whereabouts.

Unfolding her list of names, Eloise's gaze lingered on the empty space where Edward's name should have been, a void that seemed to echo the uncertainty that now clouded her thoughts.

Pushing aside her growing concern, Eloise summoned her resolve and beckoned her students to gather around, their eager faces alight with anticipation as they awaited her guidance.

"Good morning, everyone," Eloise greeted, her voice a soothing melody that resonated throughout the room. "Today, we embark on a journey of artistic exploration, where our brushes shall weave tales of color and form."

With practiced ease, Eloise guided her students through the nuances of technique and composition, her words a symphony of instruction and encouragement that spurred them onward.

As the room buzzed with the fervor of creation, Eloise found herself drawn towards Jasper, a quiet presence amidst the sea of artistic endeavor. With measured steps, she made her way towards him, her footsteps echoing softly against the tiled floor.

"Jasper," Eloise began, her voice a gentle interlude amidst the artistic frenzy, "may I have a word with you?"

Jasper looked up from his canvas, his eyes alight with curiosity as he regarded his teacher. "Of course, Ms. Uley" he replied, his voice a mere whisper amidst the vibrant energy of the room.

Leaning in closer, Eloise broached the topic that weighed heavily on her mind. "I couldn't help but notice Edward's absence today," she confessed, her voice tinged with concern. "Do you happen to know where he might be?"

A shadow flickered across Jasper's features, his expression tinged with sympathy as he met Eloise's gaze. "Edward wasn't feeling well after biology class," he explained softly, his words a balm to her worried mind. "He went home to rest."

Eloise nodded, a sense of relief washing over her at the reassurance of Edward's well-being. "Thank you for letting me know, Jasper," she murmured, gratitude lacing her words. With a final nod of acknowledgment, she turned to leave, her thoughts already drifting towards Edward's swift recovery.

Yet, as she moved to retreat to her desk, Jasper's voice halted her in her tracks, his words tinged with a quiet determination. "Ms. Uley," he began, his tone tentative yet resolute, "may I stay after class today, as I did yesterday?"

Surprise flickered across Eloise's features, her brows furrowing in silent contemplation. Yet, with a gentle nod of assent, she offered Jasper a reassuring smile. "Of course, Jasper," she replied, her voice warm with encouragement. "You're always welcome here."

With a sense of purpose renewed, Eloise made her way back to her desk, the rhythmic cadence of brushes against canvas serving as a backdrop to the day's unfolding narrative. And amidst the ebb and flow of artistic inspiration, she found solace in the bonds that bound her students together, a testament to the enduring power of creativity and connection.