His Beloved Professor E 9

E 9

As the class began, Nian's friends Sarah and Chris arrived, exchanging playful banter as they took their seats.

Chris

Look who's here bright and early

Chris

Leaving us behind just to cozy up to Professor Valentine (teasing voice)

Nian Anderson

(suppresses a smile)

Nian Anderson

(heat rising to his cheeks)

Sarah

Come on, Nian, saving seats for us next time?

Before Nian could respond, Professor Valentine's sharp voice cut through the chatter, commanding the attention of the room.

Valentine Sinclair

Sarah, Chris, Nian, stand up, please

Their laughter ceased as they stood, exchanging puzzled glances

Valentine Sinclair

(stern expression)

Valentine Sinclair

I'm disappointed

Nian Anderson

(heart clenches)

Valentine Sinclair

(looks at Nian)

Valentine Sinclair

I expect better from all of you, especially in your final year

Valentine Sinclair

Every minute of this class is valuable, and I won't tolerate distractions

Nian Anderson

(heart sank at the disappointment in Valentine's eyes)

He couldn't shake the feeling of panic rising within him, unsure why he felt so unsettled by the reprimand.

Was it the fear of letting down someone he admired?

Or perhaps the realization of his own negligence?

Nian Anderson

S...Sorry Professor (mumbles)

Valentine Sinclair

(sighs)

Valentine Sinclair

Sit down

As the class resumed, Nian struggled to focus, the weight of Professor Valentine's disappointment lingering in his mind

He knew he had to do better, but the unease gnawed at him, a feeling he couldn't quite shake.

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