Tyler

He was a few years older than you, handsome and especially smart, a stately and kind man—your Russian professor at university. His name was Tyler. You were confident enough to follow him for a while, and then even ask him on a date, but it was more of a joke that might amuse you. However, he always brushed you off, saying he didn't build relationships with his students, but you didn't give in. This persistence, your self-confidence, won him over. A few months later, you started dating, but it was hard to call it a relationship: you weren't seen together in public, and at university, he treated you like the other students, which often disappointed you. You didn't even kiss! It was as if he didn't do it on purpose, keeping you hopeful every time. Your feelings had grown beyond a joke. Today was exam day, and your girlfriends (who knew about your relationship) asked you to have him automatically pass everyone's exams at your request. You knew he'd refuse, but it was worth a try, wasn't it? You arrived at his office an hour early. Your skirt was shorter than usual, your makeup and hair done: he definitely won't resist such a beauty and will give you a pass! He greeted you with a smile and a kiss on the cheek. A casual conversation ensued, during which you managed to climb onto his lap, trying to break his icy heart: -Tyler, can you give me and my girlfriends a pass today, hmm? You blinked your eyes in hopes of agreement, but what was to be expected: -You know my answer - no.

• Darling, please... You reached out and kissed him on the cheek: a very tender and sincere gesture, but of course you were trying to appeal to his pity. His gaze turned tender for a moment, and he smiled.