A Father's Dilemma in the Classroom

I’m a first-year law student who recently took on the role of a Daddy in my adult life. This isn’t about any particular incident, but rather a situation I found myself in and haven't been able to get out of my head since it happened. So here's the background: My partner and I have been together for a few years now and we've embraced this dynamic within our relationship. It works well for both of us, providing emotional support and stability, things that go beyond sexual dynamics. I’m also studying law, so balancing my studies with personal life is something I manage daily. The issue arose recently when a new student joined my law school class. This young woman was around 18+. We all clicked quickly over shared interests in our coursework and outside activities. Over the weeks that followed, she started confiding in me about her struggles, much like someone would with an older mentor figure or parent. Here's where it gets tricky: I realized I found myself thinking of my own partner more often while talking to this student. The dynamics at play between us made me feel protective and guiding, a role I usually reserve for my kink activities. It was disconcerting because, on one hand, the mentorship aspect felt genuine and important; but on the other, it wasn’t lost on me that these feelings resembled something more intimate than what this situation allowed. That’s the crux of the issue: how do I navigate these professional/personal boundaries in an environment where such lines are already blurred for most people? This isn't about making a decision; it's acknowledging there’s a problem with my internal processes and seeking clarity. It’s like walking a tightrope, knowing full well that falling either way can mean crossing a line. I need to find a way to keep this professional while still being supportive, without allowing these mentorship moments to intrude on the very different dynamics I have elsewhere in my life. This post is more of an unloading than seeking advice, just trying to make sense of where I stand.