sunnyslovin

[sunnyslovin]

being so real.. has anyone thought of this dynamic before 😭😭 like u cant tell me in someway they are not like them even if just a littleee bit🧍‍♂️

[sunnyslovin]

Hamilton: Chicago

At the lovely Nederlander Theatre

[sunnyslovin]

How to Fall in Love With a Scholar

Lesson 2: Becoming an Assistant?

synopsis: Frequenting the library you catch the eye of a mysterious snarky scholar with brilliant ideas,

ideas that will change all of Teyvat he tells you- and you just have to be a part of it. Who would pass up an opportunity as life changing as this?

Unknowing that it would involve much uncertainty and chaos along the way to a cure. You don’t even know how to properly dispose of a body for god's sake!

Experiments, awkward feelings, and antics ensue as you both struggle to figure out what exactly it is that you want from this research- and relationship.

Previous Lessons-

Lesson 1: https://www.tumblr.com/sunnyslovin/732305116817981440/how-to-fall-in-love-with-a?source=share

_______________________________________

The library was always a peaceful place, though it never was quite this interesting. Most scholars seemed to avoid the silent sections, preferring to study with others around. Zandik, on the other hand, was always holed away in the quietest corner, never minding the silence, but welcoming it. The only company he allowed was yours. Every other day you'd walk in to see him there, and for some reason you were comfortable around him. His quiet nature seemed to mesh with yours, and the two of you seemed to enjoy each other's company. You began looking forward to these days, with the occasional conversation with the strange academic.

As the days passed you learned quite a bit about each other.. ranging from your pasts to, more mundane everyday things. You talked about your majors and interests, what you wanted to do. Learning about Zandiks interests in ancient machines and furthering human advancement. In turn he learned about yours, entomology and reading. Although you both had the same fundamental understanding that this was just an acquaintanceship, you couldn't help but talk for hours sometimes, or steal glances at each other while reading.

The stern expression that always seemed present before faded the more you both talked. He would look down at his book, but his mind was elsewhere, not minding the looks you stole here and there, he occasionally caught your gaze too. Noticing your hand gestures while you talked, and your mannerisms. There was a layer of intrigue in his voice, and he seemed genuinely interested in your life and aspirations. He’d also begun telling you about the darker aspects of Sumerus culture he had always known about, and the shady things he had done for his research.

Another week passed and it was another day of you both chatting in the library after class. Zandik had begun to open up more and you suppose to a certain degree, trust you? Or just know from judge of character that you weren't one to tattle because he opened up a conversation about his.. extracurriculars.. going on about the research he was doing to find a cure for Eleazar. A few things that required more.. unconventional methods. Sitting in front of you now, legs crossed and arms folded, he grew frustrated at the lack of progress. Making it known in conversations.. and making it known with that scowl on his face. It did sound hard.. You finally spoke up, “You know.. I really admire what you're trying to achieve but, I don't think the Akademiya would be too happy about your experiments if they found out..”

Chuckling softly, there was a hint of annoyance in his tone, “I know they would be unhappy with my actions, which is precisely the reason I choose to conduct them separately. I aim to further human research and development, at any cost.” Pausing, he smiled softly before continuing on, “You know, I never would have expected to be sharing this with anyone, or for them to be so understanding of my actions.” He closed his book. “I've been thinking, you would make for an excellent lab assistant.”

Closing your book as well, loudly exhaling, “It's just.. I don't want you to do something brash one day and get caught.. You would certainly be expelled and.. ughh I don't want to be here alone again, that would be terribly boring!” Laughing quietly before looking at him a bit more serious, “I.. still have some qualms about your actions, but.. I do understand. As for lab assistant, you know my research lies with insects, not humans.”

Zandik smirked and placed his book on the desk in front of him. Looking directly at you, his tone almost teasing. “You don't have to worry. I won't get caught, that's one thing you can be certain of.” His expression shifted to one of seriousness. “And I know your research lies with insects, not humans. But, I've read some of your notes, you're far more intelligent and capable than many other students in the Akademiya. I could use a helping hand.”

Rolling your eyes, you let out another long exaggerated breath. “Ok Zandik whatever you say, but.. if you do get caught one day just, don't leave me here with these.. these people..” Glancing around the library you notice a few students studying while others pick out books, all having the same air of arrogance surrounding them. “As for helping you.. you're far too flattering with those words but, I can't fathom how I could be of any assistance.” Shrugging, he leaned back in his seat, “Believe me, I won't let you down. You're far too nice for these people to deserve your presence.” Smirk flashing across his face, he shook his head. “As for helping me, being a lab assistant requires very little technical knowledge. You don't need to know everything there is to know. As long as you can be an extra pair of hands during my experiments, you'll be fine. I'm sure you'll pick things up quickly.”

You nod at his words, thinking.. The offer was intriguing.. “Hm, I'll give it some thought and come back with an answer tomorrow, how does that sound?”

The young scholar nodded slowly, a trace of excitement in his eyes. “Very well, that sounds good with me. It would be good to have some help with my research..” Smiling softly, he tilted his head, “But don't you dare answer yes because you feel obligated to help me. I won't be bothered if you decline the offer, I'm quite used to doing things myself. Besides, I'll find another volunteer, sooner or later.”

“I hear you, and i'll think about your words well Zandik.. now shush and lets get back to reading..” You both respectively go back to reading your books in silence next to each other. After some time passed it was once again time to say goodbye, leaving the library to head back to your apartment for the night. Mind filled with thoughts about the offer, seeming to weigh on you as you mentally list out the pros and cons, it was quite a struggle trying to decide.

Eventually reaching the abode, thinking about this and that. You didn't have many friends, so an acquaintanceship was a nice change. You enjoyed his company, and being an assistant could be fun. But what if it wasn't? Would it be a mistake or could it help to expand your knowledge and interests?

Studying your own research and eating dinner, your mind occasionally came back to the offer and as you drifted to sleep the thought of it occupied your mind, not willing to leave so easily. Your own research seemed to pale in comparison to what you could possibly gain from your involvement with him. Perhaps it was the excitement that came from something new, or just the curiosity of what would happen if you agreed to his offer, even if the two of you were just acquaintances. Whatever the case, sleep did not come easy to you as you tossed and turned. Filled with an anticipation and nervousness for what's to come.

The next day classes seemed to drag on and the lectures seemed never ending. Until they were and you were at the library door again, still a bit nervous about this new endeavor. Shaking off any anxiety, the oak doors parted way to the book sanctuary, your feet leading you to the back, to the familiar spot.

Zandik glanced up from his book as you came over, giving a small nod in greeting. His expression remained straight, but it seemed to hold a tinge of expectation as he waited for your response. “Well? Have you thought about my offer yet?” Straightening up to turn to where you sat, it was as if he expected you to respond in an instant.

“Wow, not even a hello, how are you, anything? Maybe I'll retract my yes just for that!” A smile formed on your lips at that look of expectancy, and the playful sarcasm you spoke that rang the answer to his question.

He raised an eyebrow at your words, almost in a way to ask if you were joking or not. Seemingly thinking about your response, he tilted his head slightly still holding that tinge of excitement in his eyes. “I- so.. is it yes?” He stared at you, waiting for you to confirm his suspicions. You could feel the anticipation emanating from him, as he tried to hold back the elation currently being felt.

Rolling your eyes with a sigh and a smile, you gave way to confirmation. “Yes, I thought it over and.. it would be stupid of me not to accept such a rare opportunity of hands-on learning you could seldom find elsewhere.”

The scholar in front of you heaved a sigh as well, though one possibly from relief as the butterflies fluttering in his stomach slowly seemed to die down. He thought he was keeping his joy in check, but it was evident in his tone; the words rolling off his tongue exuded enthusiasm. “Wonderful.” Thoughts passed through his mind, and he glanced at you curiously, “Do you have time to start your duties today, perhaps? I believe I can give you a quick tour, and show you my current lab location.”

_____________________________________________

notes:

Hi all, thank you for reading! I've cross posted this from my ao3 if you care to check it out, https://archiveofourown.org/users/sunnylovin/works

mad short chapter but progress 🧍‍♂️ how do you feel about becoming his assistant?? should be interestinggg 👁️ next chapter will be welcome to mtv cribs vibe- lab tour!!

If you have any comments or anything to share, feel free to. I'd love any feedback as this is my first long story! It's also my first times ever posting to tumblr & I had a bit of trouble formatting this so any advice would be helpful towards that as well! :)

[sunnyslovin]

How to Fall in Love With a Scholar

Lesson 1: A New Acquaintance

The hallway was filled with chatter amongst peers, huddled together in packs on the sidelines. Students in the Akademiya excited to chat with their friends during free period before the next class creeps up to snatch them from the more mundane pleasures. Shouldering your way through to come upon oak stained doors, pulling them open to the heavy scent of parchment and ink. The dimmed light more easy than the fluorescents outside, giving your tired eyes a much needed break. It was like another home, the library, towering shelves cluttered with books made you feel smaller. Not negatively but though in the way you'd feel being wrapped in a cozy blanket in a small cabin by your lonesome. That said, all worries can be left at the door as you delve into writings, some for research others, enjoyment, but all the same it takes your mind off reality even if just for a moment.

Sitting at a rather large desk, hands begun rummaging through your bag to fall upon your current read. Taking it out, getting comfortable, you'll be here awhile after all. Fingers smooth over the cover, opening up the lightly faded book, eyes scan the pages, drinking in every word. Getting immersed back into the story, you find yourself beginning to smile. The light from a nearby lamp illuminates the pages and makes for the perfect atmosphere, also adding a faint glow to your face. Unbeknownst to you someone appreciated that glow, as they looked up from their own book, stealing a glance at you. It wasn't about admiration, it was a mere observation, but through your reading you caught it. Mind beginning to take an unknowing interest in the fellow that looked at you so quickly, as if to get caught meant being sentenced to death. He wore normal Akademiya robes, the only thing unusual being the blue hair that tufted out from his school cap and those deep cardinal eyes that are.. staring at you right now.

“What? Is there a problem?” Raising an eyebrow with a hint of annoyance, the stranger questioned, the book in his grip falling face open onto his lap. The scowl that resided on his face made you want to die right there.. “Ah, sorry, I was just wondering what you were reading, didn't mean to stare.” Smiling a bit sheepishly you turn your attention back to your own book, mentally cursing yourself and silently judging the audacity of this stranger, like he wasn't the one staring first.. An awkward silence engulfed your corner of the library as the air felt thicker, you both read silently, still occasionally stealing glances at each other. Despite his usual aloof demeanor, something about your presence piqued his curiosity. Not seeming to mind the awkwardness he continued to study both his book and you in peace.

After a few minutes, he put the literature down, moving closer to you. From his position before to now sitting across from you, the warm lamp light now shining on him as well, allowing you to fully make out his features. “What's your name?” Those red eyes seemed to glow as he spoke, tone attempted friendly yet authoritative, carrying a subtle sharp edge. His face remained straight, expressionless, at least it wasn't that scowl anymore. A bit surprised to see him actually move to talk, you place your book down as well. Introducing yourself, you give him your name but in turn request his own as well, quite curious about this stranger. “What about yours? I think I've seen you around here before..”

“Zandik.” He said, leaning his chin on one palm, casually crossing his legs. The way he studied you was odd, eyes flickering from your face, chest, and limbs, as if sizing you up. Clearly analyzing your mannerisms and expressions. Zandik then glanced down at your book with peculiar interest, “What are you reading about?”

“Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka.. just some pleasure reading, I got bored of studying.” Adjusting in the stiff wooden chair, you flip the book shut, showing the cover with title and author. Eyes scan about him as well, trailing to the book of his own sitting face down on the table before inquiring. “And you, what are you reading? Are you here to study or just relax?”

“Hm, im reading a book of a similar nature. The Death of Ivan llyich.” While speaking his gaze traveled down your legs, resting on your ankle. “It's nice to take a break from studies. I come here to do both. Read, relax, and research. Sometimes I just come to observe.” He said the last line while staring directly into your eyes, as if he was reading your soul.

“Are you kidding, I love Leo Tolstoy's works!” You speak with a hint of excitement, not expecting him to have such similar taste in literature. Trying to ignore the fact that he basically just admitted to observing you.. you continue on. “Ah, I get that too. People watching can be interesting although I find it to be much more.. eventful to observe in areas with higher foot traffic.” Zandik cracked a slight smile, which he quickly hid with a neutral expression. “You've got good taste. And I agree. People watching is more “eventful” in areas of high traffic. But in particular, I like to watch how people of different classes, backgrounds, and upbringings interact.” His gaze turned into something else as he continued to study you closely. “I find your presence particularly.. intriguing. What's your background?”

“My.. background?”

“Yes. Your background, where you come from, why you are here. What's your story?” A slight twinkle of wonder was ever present in his eye as he continued to size you up, skipping the small talk to go right into personal questions. It seemed as if he was searching for any and every reaction from you. What a strange guy.. good to be wary. “Oh, well.. you're still a stranger to me, why should I tell you that?” You think a moment before asking, switching the narrative and trying to get him to think if he were in your shoes. “Would you be willing to tell a stranger your background, if they asked?” Smirking at your response, he shifted his weight to lean against his other hand in turn, seemingly getting a bit closer. “If I was in your shoes, I'd answer the question. I'd rather not keep a stranger curious. Curiosity is dangerous after all.”

“Ok Zandik, but i'm expecting to hear a bit of your background after.. just to be fair of course.” You sit thinking for a moment of how much you really want to share with him before speaking again, “I'm from the countryside, middle of nowhere. I came to this city myself to leave what terrible family I had left behind. Upon arrival I decided I wanted to study at the Akademiya. Does that suffice?” He listened to your brief explanation, a slight look of boredom on his face. Once you finished talking, he crossed his arms, eyes still fixed on you. “That's quite the sad story, to have no familial attachments, must have been hard. Are you here on a full scholarship, or do you have the finances to provide for your studies yourself?” It was almost as if he were interviewing you, the way he talked. Sighing you answer, shaking your head lightly in disagreement. “Dont say its a sad story, it's just a story, it doesn't have to be sad. And well.. my familys never been on the wealthy side but before I left I came into a hefty sum which I used for schooling and studies..” Raising an eyebrow you look at him with expectancy, “Now.. tell me a bit about you, I'm interested.”

A soft chuckle left him as well an eye roll. He tsked. “You're one of those. The type to pretend they didn't have a difficult life, the self-proclaimed survivor.” He paused, and the faint glow of a smile danced around his lips, before fading again. “Not that the backstory I'll share with you is any less dark. Similar to you, I have no family. We were never poor, but not wealthy either, lived just outside of Sumeru city. That is until I decided to run away from it all.”

Shifting a bit uncomfortable in your seat, a bit of defensiveness boils within at that first comment, ‘One of those’. “I don't pretend I didn't have a difficult life, I did. I just find it distasteful when someone, especially a stranger, views it as sad.” Clearing your throat, as if for punctuation you carry on, “Hm, did you always grow up around here, in Sumeru, or did you travel from somewhere else?”

Raising an eyebrow, a smirk came to Zandiks face, one that he didn't bother to hide. Your defensiveness was rather amusing to the boy. “Don't pretend to be a lone survivor, you're more fragile than you'd care to admit.” Tone softening at the question, he answered, “All my life. I grew up here, in a small village nearby. My family and I lived comfortably until there was a bit of.. let's call it a falling out. After that, I decided to travel to Sumeru city to pursue my goals.”

“Ahh, have you ever traveled to Mondstadt? That's where I'm from, a small countryside town a bit away from the main city.” Leaning both elbows on the table, he laced his fingers together listening with intrigue. “No, I've never been to Mondstadt. I'm guessing it's a peaceful town?” Chuckling softly, the cold tone from earlier rang warm. “It's funny, you've come from Mondstadt, and you have a similar background to mine. I wonder what's life like in Mondstadt compared to Sumeru city?”

“The same thought passed my mind as well first arriving here.. what it might be like to grow up in a place like this vs. a place with nothing to do in the middle of nowhere..” You sigh, “It was a bit peaceful at times but you know, small towns, everyone knows each other.. and when bad things happen everyone knows. Then it's reminisce of a public trial, the whole town judging you.”

Zandik nods, “I understand that. Small towns are a bit too close-knit for me. At least in the city, you're lost amongst everyone else. If something bad happens in a small town everyone will know and your reputation, ruined! But in the city.. no one bats an eye.” He paused, before changing the subject. “What type of people are in Mondstadt? Are they nice and friendly? Or perhaps more reserved and pompous like most Sumeran citizens.”

“Oh you know, ‘country hospitality’ and all that.. They like to seem nice and friendly face to face but once you turn your back, they'll stab you in it and twist the knife.”

Raising an eyebrow, that smile ghosted his lips again, words almost humorous. “Backstabbing hypocrites? Ah, I don't like those.” Pausing, his head tilted slightly. Gaze fixed steady on you as he dripped with intrigued to what your response would be to his next question, “Do you have any.. friends? Either in Mondstadt or Sumeru?”

“Hm.. I keep in contact with one friend back home, I know, a little embarrassing. Not many but, I'd rather have quality over quantity, you never know who you can trust these days anyway.. how about you?” Before speaking Zandik shrugged, as if it didn't matter to him. “People are people. Most aren't worth the time or energy to maintain a relationship with. I do agree that quality is better than quantity, but most people tend to be lacking in the quality department.” His expression changed, an air of irritation now surrounding him. “I do not understand why people place so much value in relationships these days. To me, it is unnecessary.” Words he spoke hung in the air for a moment, annoyance evident in his intonation.

You nod silent, a bit incelly put but, you understand that point of view. “I often find myself feeling that way as well. Too many disappointments to be had. A bit morbid but, we were born alone and will die alone, no one else will be there so.. better to focus on yourself I think..”

Ruby eyes across sparkled with approval of your response. “I see you're intelligent, after all.” The compliment was genuine, eyes showing a trace of warmth. “Like you said, you can't trust anyone these days, so you must learn to rely on yourself. I like your outlook.”

“But it is nice.. to have someone to talk to every now and again.”

Letting out a low chuckle, he nodded knowingly at your words, “That's true. I understand the need for human interaction and communication, but I despise the need for company every second of the day. It gets rather.. irritating.” Pausing, the breath he let out could almost be considered sigh worthy. “I am glad youre not one of those fools. You don't seem to be so irritating.”

“You don't seem to be so irritating either Zandik..” Looking down a faint smile plays on your lips as you don't.. dislike this conversation with him. Fingers fiddling with the edge of the book in your lap, words come out a bit quieter than intended, “If you want.. we could talk like this occasionally sometimes, ah.. not as friends or anything maybe just.. acquaintances?”

The same warm smile that scorched your lips now transferred over to his, the edges of his own mouth tugging upwards at the suggestion, thinking it over. “That sounds.. acceptable. A meeting every now and then, just to conversate.” Sighing softly, he leaned back, stretching his neck. His expression was relaxed, and he seemed surprisingly approachable. “An acquaintance, then. I will accept your offer.”

Feeling a bit of excitement at this new prospect, you hide it, pushing back your seat to stand, arm outstretched for a handshake. A gesture to signify your new acquaintanceship. “It's about time I head out so.. I'll see you around Zandik!”

Staring at your extended hand for a moment, he laughed quietly before shaking it. “Agreed. We will meet another time. Farewell for now.”

As he watched you leave, expression returning to its usual stern countenance, he remained still for a moment, mind still processing what had just happened. “A new acquaintance. Hm, a new variable to observe. I will keep this in mind, for research purposes.” The mysterious scholar returned his attention to the library, and continued his reading. He had never met anyone he’d agreed with so fast. Perhaps, it wouldn't be too bad, having an acquaintance.

Leaving the library, your heart pounded as you smiled wide. A bit giddy at being able to make a new friend- ah, acquaintance. It had been awhile since last talking to someone like that.. You hastily make your way back to the quaint little apartment you reside in to cook dinner then get to bed.. Tomorrow was another day of studying and classes after all..

_____________________________________________

notes:

Hi all, thank you for reading! I've crossposted this from my ao3 if you care to check it out, https://archiveofourown.org/users/sunnylovin/works

A bit more information, I wrote reader in their early to mid-twenties, originating from Mondstadt with research pursuing entomology. I've already got around 10 chapters pre written, so this is gonna be a sloww burn like, really fucking slow. But I promise there will be eventual awkward romance and sex stuff~

If you have any comments or anything to share, feel free to. I'd love any feedback as this is my first long story! It's also my first time ever posting to tumblr & I had a bit of trouble formatting this so any advice would be helpful towards that as well! :)