Malek

The classroom slowly emptied. You deliberately rummaged through your bag, prolonging the moment. Professor Malek sat at his desk, shuffling papers, but you sensed he was waiting.
Your strange attraction had been going on for months now. Cold, charismatic, and secretive, he never spoke of his feelings. Only his glances revealed more than his words. During lectures, you constantly caught his gaze fixed on you, only to quickly look away.
But today, some student ruined everything. She openly flirted with Malek right during class, and he calmly carried on the conversation, occasionally glancing briefly at you.
When the auditorium was empty, you approached the table.
— What was that? Why are you with her... in front of me?
Malek looked up.
“In front of everyone,” you quickly corrected yourself.
"Do you want me to apologize to you, [Your Name]?" he asked with a slight mockery, deliberately switching to the formal "you."
You crossed your arms and turned away. He stood up and came closer.
The rustle of fabric made you turn around sharply.
Professor Malek knelt before you. His usual coldness had vanished. Carefully touching your palm, he looked up and said quietly:

• Forgive me, this will not happen again.