The semester became more interesting as Alexandra came back from Europe. Catherine enjoyed going to work each day. She even started having lunches with her colleagues again.
She also met Alexandra a few times and they had coffee during breaks. Every time they would drink coffee, they would talk on various issues, which helped Catherine to know Alexandra more. She definitely was the most interesting staff member of the department. Spending time with her was enjoyable.
One day, Catherine wanted to invite her for a coffee and decided not to wait until Alexandra finishes her class. She entered the lecture hall from the back door not to catch anyone's attention. This was also her chance to see her during the action.
Once she was inside and sat down on the last row seat where only a few students were sitting. She looked at the hall and saw that it was almost full. These many students are certainly too much for just a course.
Alexandra had already begun lecturing. Everyone listened to her.
-... Of course, it is very difficult to stay objective while you are conducting a qualitative research but you should try to stop occasionally during your conversation in order to remind yourself about your original intentions. Believe me, this is not only about qualitative research. That is why many doctors do not interact with their patients. Have you ever watched Daens? That is a great movie. Not only you will learn more about industrial age but also you will see what happens if you mix your job and feelings. Eventually, you will forget about your aim. The same can be said about the movie called The Last Samurai. If you want to know more about using your skills perfectly to learn more about a culture, please make sure you read Ruth Benedict's the Chrysanthemum and the Sword. Please relax, I will not ask questions about it during exams.
Everyone sighed in relief whereas a large smile appeared on Alexandra's face.
-You see, I was a student like you and I know about the all curses students make for a teacher. Knowing that I am afraid to give you more material than the ones assigned in our curriculum. These are just to broaden your outlook.
As everyone laughed and smiled, Catherine was listening and watching carefully. Alexandra was walking from one side to another. Her body language was perfect. When she was listing movies, books, articles and scholars, she would rush to the board and write on it the names and titles. She was like a walking encyclopedia and she really was passionate about passing her knowledge to other people.
The class ended. Alexandra said she could take questions if anyone has one. Some of the students rushed towards her and some started to leave.
Catherine sat back in her chair to be more comfortable. Once she relaxed a little bit she heard the students on the other side of the row.
-Dude, I told you she is hot.
-You are right. I should have listened to you before. Do you think she is dating anyone?
-Like if she is not, you are going to try your luck?
-Why not?
-You idiot... students and teaching staff are not allowed to date.
-She is not in this department.
-You are such a genius. She is still a teacher at the school.
The girl sitting with them interrupted both her friends.
-Even if it was allowed, I do not think you would have a luck with her.
-And why is that?
-Guys, she is way out of your league. I bet she is dating hot, adventurous and smart guys.
Catherine listened to them. She wondered whether there was anyone talking about her like that. Once there were a few students left, Catherine came closer to Alexandra.
-Hello there. Coffee?
-Would be great. Where did you come from?
-I was in the back row listening to your lecture.
Alexandra looked at her surprised.
-Why did you not inform about visiting my class? I could have reserved you a seat in the first rows.
-No need. I enjoyed the lecture anyway. You are good at what you do. I was fascinated by your teaching techniques.
They started to move and left the lecture hall.
-I really thought that you might have difficulties in making students listen to you due to you being young. However, they love listening to you. By the way, are all of those students registered for your course?
-No. Only 100 students. I let the other ones just join the lecture if they are so interested.
-That is so generous of you.
-Well, there is nothing wrong with sharing your experience and knowledge with others.
-You are right.
Catherine smiled. They were near the cafeteria. Once they got their coffees, Catherine insisted on paying.
They sat down on a bench.
-Hope you do not mind.
Alexandra pulled a cigarette.
-If you are OK to poison yourself, why should I care?
Alexandra smiled and lit the cigarette.
-An interesting thing happened when you finished your lecture.
-Don't tell me it was so boring that you cheered once it was finished.
Catherine laughed.
-No. Not that. A few students were talking about you. I heard them being very affectionate by you. One of them is even interested in pursuing a relationship with you.
-Really?
Alexandra smiled with a satisfied look on her face.
-What can I say? I still got it.
-Doesn't it bother you?
-Why should it? I am flattered. Would that make you uncomfortable?
-Well, yes. Those are students.
Catherine sipped her coffee and turned her face in the other direction to avoid looking at Alexandra's face.
-Please, Catherine. Do not tell me you are against teacher and student relationship.
-Are you not?
-Well, I do not say it is right. There should be some boundaries but if it happens, there is not such a big deal about it. Sometimes older and experienced people easily affect young people. I, for example, was in love with my History teacher back at high school. I was so obsessed with her. Once, I saw her leaving the school with her husband. That night, I cried myself to sleep.
Catherine looked at Alexandra. She shared this very intimate experience with her. Catherine felt an urge to do the same for the sake of reciprocity but she could not. If Alexandra's sincerity made her look adorable, Catherine's would be worse than that.
-I guess you might be right.
They smiled at each other and continued to drink their coffees.