**Chapter 8: The Web of Deception**

The dim lighting of the office seemed to amplify the tension between them as Eric stepped closer, his eyes burning with an unspoken promise. Maya felt her resolve crumbling, her defenses weakened by the desire that had been building up inside her since their encounter in class. "I want to see you tonight," Eric repeated, his voice low and husky, sending shivers down her spine. "Meet me at the old oak tree in the park at 7 pm. We can talk then." Maya nodded, her heart racing with anticipation. She knew that she was taking a risk, but she couldn't help herself. She was hooked, and she was willing to do whatever it took to keep the high alive. As Eric turned to leave, Maya caught his arm, her fingers brushing against his skin. "Be careful," she whispered, her eyes scanning the hallway to ensure they were still alone. "We can't afford to get caught." Eric smiled, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Don't worry, I'll be careful. I have a plan." With that, he slipped out of the office, leaving Maya to wonder what he had in store for her. She spent the rest of the afternoon in a daze, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of Eric and their secret tryst. As the clock struck 6 pm, Maya gathered her things and made her way home, her heart racing with excitement. She couldn't shake off the feeling that she was living a lie, that her life was about to take a drastic turn. The hours ticked by slowly, and before she knew it, 7 pm had arrived. Maya made her way to the park, her heart pounding in her chest. She spotted Eric standing beneath the old oak tree, his eyes locked on hers as she approached. "I'm glad you came," he said, his voice low and husky, as he pulled her into his arms. Maya felt a rush of desire as their lips met, their kiss deep and passionate. She knew that she was in trouble, that she was falling for a student, but she couldn't help herself. She was caught in a web of deception, and she didn't know how to escape. As they broke apart for air, Eric smiled, his eyes glinting with mischief. "I have a surprise for you," he said, pulling out a small package from his pocket. Maya's heart skipped a beat as she wondered what it could be. Was it a gift, or something more? She took the package from him, her fingers trembling as she unwrapped the paper. Inside, she found a small camera, its lens gleaming in the fading light. Maya's eyes widened as she realized what it meant. Eric had been planning this all along, and she had walked right into his trap.