44. Professor's call

Adrian sat by the window in the living room, sunlight filtering through the curtains and casting a warm glow on his face. His hand absentmindedly rested on his growing stomach, which now showed a soft, rounded curve—evidence of the little life developing inside him. He smiled softly, feeling a strange mix of joy and apprehension. His world had shifted so dramatically over the past few months, and he was still trying to find his balance.

Suddenly, his phone buzzed on the table beside him. Picking it up, he glanced at the screen and saw an unfamiliar number. Hesitant but curious, he answered.

"Hello?"

"Adrian? It's Professor Li," came the familiar, deep voice on the other end.

Adrian's heart skipped a beat. His professor from the university. He hadn't heard from him in so long—after everything that had happened, school had been the last thing on his mind.