I Keep Watching You

“M-Mr. Bouchard!” Martin squeaks, gripping the handles of the cart and unconsciously putting it between them like a shield. Adorable, Elias thinks as he waits for Martin to answer. “I-um, yeah, thanks. Can I-can I help you find something?”“Elias, please,” Elias says, waving his hand. “We’re an academic institution but not every formality needs to be observed. And no, thank you. I have lunch with the various departments and today is Tuesday so it is your turn.” He places a little bit of emphasis on the word ‘your’ just to watch Martin gulp. “Come along, then. You can sit with me, I’m interested in hearing about how your first week has gone.”