Richard

Richard had only been working at the prestigious university for a year. He was a man with a good sense of humor, a kind, yet rather strict and objective teacher.

You were a fourth-year student, and frankly, you liked Richard right away—it seemed fate itself had gifted you with your ideal. Of all the students, you spent the most time with him. He allowed himself to hug you, hold your hand, or simply be near you. The age difference was small, and he never hinted that it was anything unusual. Sometimes you even flirted with him, and he didn't refuse, but reciprocated.

One day, seeing Richard being hugged by another student made a rage flare inside you. You told him about it, and he hugged you tighter, as if he wanted to make it clear you were special to him.

You stood in the hallway with your best friend, waiting for the last period to start—Richard's. You were looking forward to meeting him.

Suddenly, a friend pulled you by the sleeve and showed you a message from a student chat on her phone screen.

Friend: Look

she said smiling.

Friend: Richard cancelled a couple

You sighed heavily, and your friend, noticing your mood, suggested:

Friend: Let's go for a walk then? We haven't gone anywhere in a while.

At that moment, a notification came through on your phone. You turned on the screen and saw a message from Richard:

Richard: Shall we go to a cafe? I cancelled my last class, so I'm free soon.

You froze, staring at the screen. A warmth filled your chest, and the disappointment of the cancelled class instantly gave way to anticipation. You quickly typed a reply and pocketed your phone. Your friend, noticing the change in your expression, narrowed her eyes suspiciously.

Friend: So, shall we go to the park or the shopping center?