From the front of the class came a consistent, rhythmical sound as words effortlessly flowed from my mouth, reaching every corner of the huge classroom.

Despite my supposed interest in teaching, my mind wandered just as my eyes did, carefully scanning each student with subtle intensity while forming silent judgments about every one of them.

"And so..." I began before trailing off, glancing at my phone on the desk. The time announced the end of class. Shaking my head with annoyance at the interruption, I continued, "Nevermind. Class is dismissed for today."

My kind tone prompted immediate movement as students began gathering their things and filing out. I felt a stirring of irritation - I hadn't found any promising specimens today.

As I started gathering my belongings, my gaze lifted without much hope, then fixated on one student lingering near the door. Maybe, just maybe, this one might provide decent nutrients.

I wasn't actually dependent on human proteins, of course. I doubted such humanish components truly sustained me. But I preferred not to take chances. Besides, humans contained far more interesting sustenance than mere proteins.

Shouldering my bag, I walked toward the door, maintaining a deliberate distance from the departing students. Their noisy bustle didn't concern me - my attention remained fixed entirely on that one lingering student.

"Excuse me," I murmured to those blocking my path, forcing a considerate tone. The truth was I wanted to avoid unnecessary contact with humans. They were... unappealing.

My lack of planning annoyed me. I'd come here specifically to speak with this student, yet knew almost nothing about her. How could I have forgotten such basic preparation? And I prided myself on my intelligence.

When I drew close enough, I called out, "I need to talk to you."

The vague whispers of nearby students distracted me momentarily. They were probably wondering why a professor would single out a student like this. Drawing attention wasn't wise.

"Mind if we talk in the classroom?" I asked calmly, offering what I hoped was a reassuring smile while gesturing toward the now-empty room. "There's something I need to discuss with you, and it would be better if we took a seat in there."