Chapter 7

We're already halfway through the semester, only two months left until it's over. I know deep down that I will graduate this time because I've worked hard and regained my focus. I haven't spoken to Prof Gray again, so the teasing from my classmates has also stopped. We are all busy with our preparations for the final grades."

I'm on the rooftop, deep in thought. It feels really nice to hang out here and enjoy the breeze. There aren't many people here, so I find peace of mind in this solitude.

Can I talk to you?" Prof Gray said, interrupting my contemplation. I gestured for him to take a seat next to me.

Your graduation is approaching soon, and I'm sure you'll receive the highest award again, the Summa Cum Laude. That's the first thing it said to me."

I'm not aiming for the highest award, Prof. Gray. What's important to me is that I've learned the lessons and that my mom won't be hurt anymore," I replied to him. He looked at me, and we locked eyes. Quickly, I averted my gaze from his intense stare.

You know, I would like to ask you a favor Ellie ,can you call me Ethan when it's just the two of us? It sounds a bit older when you use my surname. he said to me with a laugh.

But you're my professor; it feels disrespectful to call you by your first name. He looked at me with an intense gaze, and I couldn't meet his eyes directly, feeling like I was melting away.

I've liked you Ellie. I've been holding back my feelings because I want you to focus on your studies, and I'm also your professor. But now that you're almost finishing, I just wanted you to know how I feel," he said with a tone of love.

I gulped at what he said and averted my gaze.

"Ah, Prof Gray, I think it's getting late in the afternoon. Maybe we should head home," I said with a nervous voice.

Ellie, I'm not expecting any answer from you, but I just want you to know how I feel. Oh well, go ahead and go down first, and let's not give people more to think about. I don't want to put you in a difficult position. I may want to accompany you, but next time when everything isn't complicated," he said with a smile. I smiled back at him and quickly descended from the school's rooftop.

I couldn't help but bite my lip as I lay down, still hearing Ethan's words echoing in my mind. I felt a flutter of excitement in my heart. Our handsome professor likes me. Actually, I'm almost graduating, so it might not have a significant impact on both of us if we end up together. I smiled at the thought of being together in the right time.

It's Saturday today, so there's no school, and I'm just at home. Mama is getting ready to go out for work.

A little while later, Mama called me and informed me that there's a visitor for me. I went outside to see who the visitor was, as Mama suggested.

I was surprised to see Prof Gray.

"Hi Prof Gray, I mean Ethan," I said.

Mama was looking at us, and her gaze seemed to carry a meaning, as if her eyes were asking questions.

He just said he wanted to see me. He looks incredibly handsome in a blue polo shirt that highlights his muscles, and he's wearing denim pants. I can't help but gulp at his stunning appearance.

Good thing I already took a shower, and I don't look tired. I quickly offered him a drink, but he said he'll just have water.

I don't want to be unfair to our class, Ethan. I like you too, but you're my professor, and I'm worried about what others might say about us, I told him.

Don't say it's unfair because you're also the most excellent student in the class. Besides, I'm willing to wait for you, Ellie. Maybe next semester, after you graduate, I won't be teaching anymore.I'm only teaching because of you, he said.

I furrowed my brow in response to what he said, "What do you mean you're only teaching because of me?" I asked him.

He just smiled and didn't respond, so I let it go.

We were happy as we chatted.

A little while later, he bid goodbye to go home. Before leaving, he looked at me again, and slowly leaned towards my face, kissing me on the lips. Though it didn't last long, I felt a rush of warmth through my body. '

I'm sorry, I couldn't control myself,' said Prof. Gray."