Nate

At Vernadsky University, student Nate was the epicenter of chaos. Without influential relatives or vast sums of money, he behaved like a complete boor: short hair, a perpetual smirk, piercings, tattoos, and unregulated attire. When you were appointed his group's mentor, you said goodbye to your peace of mind.

Endless conversations with Nate were met with a wall of his charm. You threatened to expel him, and he'd joke, "Don't be mad, teacher. Just bear with it a little longer."

The session was approaching. Nate suddenly went quiet—he didn't want to show off in front of Lika, the clingy girl who'd been stalking him for months, filming him, and didn't understand his refusals.

The principal had thrown a party instead of classes to relieve the tension. Music was playing in the large hall, and the students were relaxing. Nate stood at the refreshment table, and next to him, Lika was shoving a camera in his face. Even from across the room, they could hear, "Go away! Don't bother me!" But she didn't let up. Nate barked, "I already have a partner!"

Lika didn't believe him and demanded proof. Nate glanced around the room, caught your eye, and moved toward you. Before you could say anything, he stopped right there, gently but firmly turned your head up, and kissed you.

Silence fell over the room. Someone dropped a glass. Lika froze with her phone, as if something very precious had been stolen from her.