Unfinished Business
The classroom is filled with soft murmurs as Elsie paces in front of the whiteboard. She adjusts her glasses, scanning her students
Elsie Valdez
Alright, let’s take a five-minute break.
A chorus of “Yes, Miss Elsie” fills the room as students stretch and whisper among themselves. Elsie exhales, massaging her temples. Teaching is exhausting, but at least it keeps her distracted.
Mia Carter
Still overworking yourself, I see.
Elsie turns and spots a familiar face leaning against the doorway—her best friend, Mia Carter. Dressed in her usual stylish blouse and ripped jeans, Mia grins mischievously as she strides inside.
Elsie Valdez
Mia, what are you doing here?
Mia Carter
Oh, just checking if my favorite teacher is still alive.
Mia plops onto Elsie’s desk, swinging her legs playfully.
Mia Carter
Actually, I came here for something important.
Elsie Valdez
Oh? Should I be worried?
Mia smirks, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Mia Carter
So… are you single or what?
Elsie nearly drops her marker.
Mia Carter
You heard me. Are you single or secretly dating someone?
Elsie Valdez
Why are you asking?
Mia Carter
Because— drum roll, please—I’m inviting you to a double date this weekend!
Mia Carter
A double date. Me, my boyfriend, you, and a very charming guy. It’ll be fun!
Elsie Valdez
I'm not interested
Mia Carter
Oh, come on! You've been single for months. It's time to move on, babe.
Elsie tenses. Move on? As if it were that easy. As if her past wasn’t creeping back into her life just last night.
Mia Carter
Too busy to have fun? Don't lie, Elsie.
Mia Carter
Is this about him?
Elsie stiffens. Mia’s gaze sharpens, as if reading her mind.
Mia Carter
Oh my god. Did Damian ever text you?
Elsie Valdez
...It doesn't matter
Mia Carter
It does. And if you're thinking about letting him back in-
Mia Carter
Good. Then prove it. Say yes to the date.
Elsie hesitates. A part of her wants to say no. Another part of her remembers Damian’s words from last night.
"I’ve changed. Let me prove it."
Her stomach twists.
Elsie Valdez
…I’ll think about it.
Mia Carter
That’s a yes in my book
Before Elsie can protest, the school bell rings, signaling the end of the break. Mia winks before hopping off the desk.
Mia Carter
See you this weekend!
And just like that, she’s gone—leaving Elsie alone with a mind full of doubts.
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