CHAPTER 7
938 Words
MARA'S POV
I was walking towards the Dean's office. Mr. Velez asked me to come in as he had something to say to me. I found it strange because I had just seen him less than twenty minutes ago. We even exchanged greetings, and yet he didn't say anything
The Mechanical Engineering department was right next to the Dean's office. Denver's name and the names of other professors were posted outside the door.
There was no response after I made several knocks. When I tried to turn the doorknob, it wouldn't budge; it was locked. It meant there was no one inside. I wondered if a student had played a prank on me, claiming that Mr. Velez wanted to see me.
I sighed and was about to leave, but suddenly, the door to the Mechanical Engineering Department Office swung open, and Denver, without any warning, pulled me inside. I was taken aback by his actions.
"Mara, are you avoiding me?" he asked.
Yes, I had been avoiding him after that passionate kiss we shared. I knew I needed to distance myself from him because it wasn't right. He was my sister's fiancé, but I was just listening to my heart, turning a blind eye to the truth. What kind of sister was I?
"I'm sorry if I have to do this," he said.
"It's okay," I replied, realizing that he was the one who had asked the student to call me.
"Mara—"
"Professor, it's not right for us to get any closer. You know I have feelings for you, and you're my sister's fiancé."
"Mara, I'm sorry if I forgot."
"You don't need to apologize," I said, "but let's just avoid each other. If we're in class, treat me as your student, because that's what's appropriate."
"Can't we forget all of this?" he asked, his voice filled with inner turmoil. "Mara, you also mean so much to me...as... as a little sister."
I forced a bitter smile. "But that's not how I see you. Do you understand?"
"I can't do anything about it if that's your decision," he said with a deep sigh.
"Alright, Professor, I'm leaving," I said, turning to go.
As I walked away from him, the doorknob moved, indicating that someone was entering. Denver pulled me and we behind the bookshelf.
I was about to speak when he quickly covered my mouth and gestured for me to stay quiet. The Dean of the Engineering Department had entered, and I understood why Denver had done that.
Many incidents had occurred with female students entering without permission and showing interest in Denver. The Dean had issued a warning, and female students were prohibited from entering. Denver's job was at risk if the dean caught me here.
In reality, Denver didn't need to work at that university. He was about to turn thirty-two, so young to be listed among the country's successful businessmen. He was not only known as a professor but also as a hotelier with two branches outside Emerald County.
Denver had been a professor for only two years, and he was not yet a regular employee. His life was quite overwhelming, which was likely why women pursued him. He was not only incredibly handsome but also had a secure future. That's why many envied my sister, Bella.
People had no words to describe my sister, who was considered a nation's pride as she was able to perform in prestigious ballet shows. The event was a big deal, and many renowned figures in the ballet industry were expected to attend.
We watched as the Dean approached the bookshelves where we were hiding. There were only books as barriers, so we had to squeeze closer and stick together to remain unseen.
I closed my eyes, trying to keep quiet, secretly hoping the dean would leave soon. But I caught a glimpse through the books that the dean seemed to be enjoying his reading.
Denver's hand moved up to my head, tapping it gently as if trying to calm me down. I felt his lips on my hair and sensed his tension as if he was surprised by what he was doing. I turned to look at him, and the close proximity made our noses almost touch, and I could feel his breath on my skin.
I turned my head away, bowing slightly, but the problem was that I was almost pressed against his chest.
Our position was unbearable, and I was about to push him when he stopped me, pulling me more against his chest and signaling me to stay quiet. His eyes pleaded with me to be silent, and I had to calm myself.
We stayed there for a while longer, and I felt Denver's breath on my forehead. Our bodies were almost touching, and we had no choice. The bookshelves were small, and we would be seen by the dean if we didn't stick together.
I just closed my eyes and fought the urge to look up. I silently prayed for the dean to leave soon. Eventually, the dean checked his watch, stood up, and left the office. It was only then that we could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
We quickly left our hiding spot behind the bookshelves.
"Mara—"
"I'm going out, Professor," I interrupted.
"Please, don't avoid me," he pleaded.
"I'll think about it."
"I'm coming to your house later."
"My sister's not home!"
His face fell. "Is it not allowed to visit your house now?"
"It's up to you," I said, heading for the door.
"Expect me tonight, Mara—"
I closed the door behind me.
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