Ador Union University was known for its prestige and luxury, a massive campus that catered to the wealthiest students. With sleek, modern buildings and perfectly manicured gardens, it looked more like a city than a school. The campus buzzed with students rushing to their classes, their designer bags slung over their shoulders. Everything at Ador Union screamed wealth and power, from the towering library to the sparkling fountains.
Haerin's POV
Pulling into the campus parking lot, I found an empty spot, killed the engine, and leaned back for a second. It was the first day of our third year at Ador Union, but it didn't feel like anything special. Same school, same routine.
I glanced at my phone no messages from Minji yet, but she was always running late. I looked up, and there she was, weaving through the crowd like she owned the place. Typical Minji.
"Wassup, Haerin" she called out the second she saw me, her voice cutting through the noise of the students around us.
I gave her a small nod, keeping it cool. "Hey."
"You don't seem excited" she teased, bumping my shoulder as we walked toward the entrance.
"It's just another day" I shrugged. Minji was the type to overhype everything, and I... well, I wasn't.
"You heard about the new professor, right? Everyone's talking about her. Professor Marsh or something. They say she's tough" Minji continued, her excitement practically buzzing off her.
"Tough, huh?" I replied, barely interested. Professors were all the same to me just part of the background.
As we made our way inside, I tried to focus on finding Room 722, scanning the signs along the hallway. Meanwhile, Minji kept yapping about who knows what, her words like background noise.
"I heard they changed the cafeteria menu. Finally, right? Like, how many days in a row can you eat the same bland pasta? Oh, and did you see that girl from our biology class last year? She totally dyed her hair pink. Honestly, it looks kinda cool but wait, did you hear about the party this weekend? Everyone's going. You should come this time."
I kept my eyes on the room numbers, ignoring most of what she said. "Uh huh."
Minji barely paused. "And guess what? Hyein said she saw Professor Marsh driving a fancy car, like, top tier rich. I bet she's some kind of genius who doesn't even need this job. Can you imagine? We're probably gonna fail if we even blink wrong in her class."
"Right," I muttered, finally spotting Room 722 ahead.
Minji was still going. "Also, did you know Yuna's back this semester? She was abroad last year, and now everyone's talking about how different she looks..."
I sighed, pushing the door open.
As we strolled into the classroom, Minji and I scanned for seats, eventually sliding into the middle row. The room buzzed with energy, students whispering and glancing at the door, waiting for the famous Professor Marsh to make an appearance.
While I tried to focus on finding Room 722 earlier, Minji had been yapping non-stop. Now, even seated, she didn't slow down.
"Hey, have you seen Hyein around?" Minji asked, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "I heard she might be dropping by. She was saying something about how she's not too thrilled about starting classes again."
I shrugged, scanning the room for any sign of Hyein. "Nope, haven't seen her. Maybe she's just running late. You know how she is."
Minji's eyes lit up with curiosity. "I hope she's not skipping out. Oh, and did you hear that Yuna's back this semester? Everyone's buzzing about it."
I raised an eyebrow, chuckling. "Minji, you're like a walking gossip column. Can't wait to see what you'll come up with next."
She nudged me playfully, grinning. "Hey, someone's got to keep things interesting."
As we continued chatting, I spotted Hyein walking in with Yuna. They made their way to the back of the classroom, taking their seats.
Minji's eyes widened in surprise. "Oh, Yuna, you're really back this semester!"
Yuna smiled and waved casually. "Yeah, I couldn't stay away for long."
Hyein gave a friendly nod in our direction before settling into her seat.
Minji leaned over to me, her voice dropping to a whisper again. "Looks like the class is about to get a lot more interesting with those two around."
I nodded, amused. "Definitely. Let's see how this semester goes."
The clicking of heels echoed through the room as the door opened, revealing Professor Marsh. She strode in with confidence and headed straight to the front of the class. The room fell silent.
"Good morning," Professor Marsh said, her voice firm. "I'm Professor Marsh. Let's start with introductions. Please state your name and a little about yourself. Keep it brief."
One by one, students introduced themselves. When it was Haerin's turn, she stood up casually. "Haerin. I'm a third-year student."
Hyein followed, a playful grin on her face. "Hyein. Ready for some fun this semester!"
Yuna, with a cheerful wave, added, "Yuna. Happy to be back!"
Minji, ever energetic, said, "Minji. Excited for the new semester!"
As the introductions wrapped up, Professor Marsh gave a nod of approval and began detailing the course expectations.
As Professor Marsh wrapped up the introductions, she moved to the board and wrote the day's topic in bold letters: "Introduction to Modern Theories."
"Today, we'll dive into the basics of modern theories in our field," Professor Marsh said. Her tone was precise and authoritative. "We'll cover key concepts and discuss their applications."
She turned to us and began explaining the first theory with clear, structured points. Her voice was steady, and she didn't waste any words. She quickly engaged the class with questions, encouraging participation.
"Who can tell me about the core principles of this theory?" she asked, scanning the room.
Minji raised her hand eagerly, but Professor Marsh called on another student. "Yes, you in the front row."
The student answered confidently, and Professor Marsh nodded in approval. "Exactly. Now, let's explore how this theory applies in real world scenarios."
As the class continued, Professor Marsh moved around the room, engaging with students and addressing questions. Her approach was strict but effective, and everyone was focused, knowing she meant business.
I was drifting off, lost in my own world as Professor Marsh spoke. The warmth of the room and the steady rhythm of her voice made it easy to zone out. Suddenly, my name jolted me back to reality.
"Haerin," Professor Marsh's voice was firm and unyielding. "Can you explain how this theory applies to contemporary settings?"
I blinked, slowly returning to the present. I glanced at the board and then at my notes, taking a moment to gather my thoughts. I didn't rush.
"Well," I began, my tone relaxed, "this theory is relevant because it helps us understand modern trends and make predictions. It adapts to current issues and challenges."
Professor Marsh's gaze remained intense. "And why is this particularly significant today?"
I took another moment to think before responding. "It's significant because it remains flexible and addresses evolving circumstances effectively."
Professor Marsh's expression didn't change. "Haerin, while I appreciate your answer, make sure you stay engaged. This subject requires full attention."
I nodded, feeling a twinge of irritation but accepting the feedback with my usual composure.
After I answered, Professor Marsh continued her explanation, delving deeper into the topic. Meanwhile, Minji and Hyein were quietly chatting and giggling in the back of the room, clearly distracted.
"Minji, Hyein," Professor Marsh's voice cut through their chatter, cold and authoritative. "Since you two seem so engaged in your conversation, could you please share your thoughts on the current topic?"
Minji and Hyein looked up, surprised and caught off guard. "Uh, we weren't really-" Minji started, but Professor Marsh interrupted.
"Please, come up to the front," she said, gesturing firmly. "Both of you."
Minji and Hyein exchanged nervous glances before slowly walking to the front of the classroom. I glanced at Yuna, who was trying to stifle a laugh. I couldn't help but smirk slightly as Minji and Hyein stood there, looking uncomfortable and unsure.
Professor Marsh gave them a stern look. "Explain the main points of the theory we're discussing."
Minji and Hyein fumbled for words, clearly unprepared. Yuna and I tried to hold back our laughter as we watched the scene unfold.
Danielle's POV
As Minji and Hyein stood at the front of the classroom, I glanced around and noticed Haerin's subtle smirk. It was clear she found the situation amusing, which was both infuriating and oddly satisfying. Haerin was one of the few students who seemed unfazed by my strictness, and her reaction was a mix of nonchalance and slight amusement.
I focused back on Minji and Hyein, who were now shifting awkwardly in front of the class. "Let's see if you can explain the theory," I said, my tone remaining firm. "If you can't, we'll continue this until you get it right."
Their attempts to answer were shaky, and I could see the frustration building on their faces. Meanwhile, Haerin and Yuna were clearly trying to stifle their laughter. I kept my gaze steady, knowing that I needed to be consistent in enforcing the classroom rules.
As I watched Minji and Hyein stumble through their answers, I kept explaining the theory to the rest of the class. They needed to understand the material thoroughly, especially if Minji and Hyein couldn't grasp it right away. It was frustrating, but I maintained my composure, ensuring everyone got the lesson.
Finally, the lunch bell rang, and I released Minji and Hyein from their ordeal. They shuffled back to their seats, looking relieved. The classroom buzzed with the chatter of students heading out, and I took a moment to collect my thoughts. Despite the challenges, I was determined to make sure every student understood the material.
As I packed up my things, I overheard Minji and Hyein complaining to Haerin and Yuna about their numb legs from standing at the front. Minji was rubbing her calves, and Hyein was trying to stretch her muscles.
Haerin, with her typical sharp wit, teased, "Well, maybe if you had been more focused, you wouldn't have been stuck there so long."
Yuna, attempting to ease the discomfort, added, "It's not that bad. At least you got a close up view of the lesson."
Minji and Hyein shot Haerin playful glares but managed a laugh. I remained focused on my task, maintaining my professional demeanor despite the light hearted banter among the students.
Haerin's POV
As I sat at the lunch table with my friends, eating and listening to them yapping about Minji and Hyein's earlier stand off, I suddenly heard a commotion down the hall. It sounded like an argument or maybe even a fight.
Without asking anyone, I got up and headed toward the noise. Minji, Yuna, and Hyein followed close behind, their curiosity matching mine. We moved quickly through the hall, drawn to the source of the disturbance.
There I was, standing in the hallway with Minji, Yuna, and Hyein, when we saw Professor Marsh and a student in the middle of a heated argument. The student was shouting angrily, his face flushed with frustration.
"I can't believe you made me stand there for so long!" he yelled, his voice echoing off the walls. "It was humiliating!"
Professor Marsh's expression was stern and unyielding. "If you can't answer questions, you stand until you do," she snapped back. "It's not about humiliation it's about learning."
The argument continued, with the student's protests growing louder and Professor Marsh's responses becoming firmer. The tension in the air was palpable, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of intrigue and sympathy for both sides.
I saw the student's hand rise, ready to strike Professor Marsh, and I acted without hesitation. I rushed over, grabbing his wrist and pulling it away from her. "Stop! You're not touching her," I commanded firmly.
The student struggled, glaring at me. "Let go of me!"
"Calm down and leave," I said, maintaining a steady grip. "You don't want this to get worse."
He finally relented, his anger shifting to frustration as he stormed out. I turned to Professor Marsh, noticing a small cut on her hand and a scratch on her arm. The scratch was from the student's earlier struggle with her. "Professor Marsh, you're bleeding," I said, taking her hand gently despite her firm insistence that she was fine.
"No, it's okay," she said, trying to pull away.
Ignoring her, I kept a tight grip on her hand. "We're going to the clinic. You need to get this looked at."
She seemed taken aback but didn't argue further. I led her to the campus clinic, doing my best to keep her hand clean and elevated. The urgency of the situation made me forget I was just a student; right now, it was important to make sure she was taken care of.
When we got to the clinic, it was deserted no nurse in sight. I took charge, searching for alcohol, cotton, and bandages. I found the supplies and noticed that, being taller than Professor Marsh, it was a bit awkward for me to tend to her. I had to bend down slightly to get the job done.
"Alright, this might sting a bit," I said as I soaked a cotton pad with alcohol.
"I know, Haerin. I'm an adult," she replied firmly, catching me off guard.
I carefully dabbed the alcohol on the cut, trying to be gentle. After cleaning the wound, I applied the bandage, making sure it was secure.
"There you go," I said, stepping back.
"Thanks," she said, her tone as firm as ever. Without another word, she turned and left the clinic.
After Professor Marsh left, I stood alone in the clinic, smiling like an idiot. I snapped out of it and wondered why I'd done all that.
Hyein rushed in, her eyes wide. "What happened? Are you okay?"
Yuna followed close behind, looking concerned. "Yeah, what's going on? You seemed really involved."
Minji came in, breathless. "Seriously, why did you help Professor Marsh like that?"
I shrugged, feeling a bit confused. "I don't know. I just... I didn't really think about it. I guess I just felt like I had to help."
Danielle's POV
As I walked back to my office, I couldn't stop thinking about why I hadn't stopped Haerin from helping me. Normally, I'd have shouted at anyone who tried to interfere or handle my injuries. But with Haerin, I hadn't said a word.
I was puzzled by my own reaction. Why did I let her help me? I'm used to dealing with things on my own, not letting others take charge. Maybe there was something about Haerin's demeanor, or maybe it was just the way she acted without hesitation that made me accept her help. Either way, I found myself questioning my usual approach and wondering why this time was different.
As I drove home, I couldn't stop replaying the events of the day in my mind. The confrontation with the student, Haerin's unexpected intervention, and my own reaction it all swirled together.
Why did I let Haerin help me? Why did I react so differently today? I kept asking myself these questions as I navigated through traffic, unable to shake the feeling that today's events were more significant than I initially thought. The day's chaos seemed to linger, and I found myself caught between frustration and curiosity about what had happened and what it might mean for the future.
When I got home, I went straight to my room, took a quick shower, and changed into something more comfortable. As I was heading downstairs, I pulled out my phone and ordered dinner from my favorite takeout place.
Hanni, my older sister, came into the kitchen as I was waiting for the delivery. "Hey, Dani," she said, noticing the bandage on my hand. "How was your day at the university?"
"It was busy," I replied, trying to sound nonchalant. "We started the semester, so there was a lot to do."
Hanni gave me a curious look. "What happened with your hand? It looks like it might be more than just a scratch."
I sighed, not wanting to go into details. "It's nothing serious. Just a minor incident with a student."
Hanni wasn't convinced. "Are you sure? It seems like it could be painful."
I shrugged, trying to downplay it. "Really, it's fine. It's just a little cut. Nothing to worry about."
Hanni nodded but still looked a bit concerned. "Okay, if you say so. By the way, did you have a lot of trouble with the students today?"
I gave a small smile, trying to change the subject. "Nothing too out of the ordinary. Just the usual first-day chaos."
The conversation shifted as we talked about other things while we waited for the food to arrive. Even though I tried to keep the focus off my day, my mind kept replaying the events and the surprising act of kindness from Haerin.
Haerin's POV
As I lay on my bed, I kept replaying the events from today in my mind. I could still see Professor Marsh's surprised expression when I rushed in to stop the student from hitting her. The way she reacted, calm and firm, yet grateful it was so different from what I expected.
I thought about how I acted without really thinking, just stepping in and taking control of the situation. It wasn't like me to get involved so directly, but something about the way Professor Marsh had been so composed, even as she was hurt, made me want to protect her.
My friends' questions kept echoing in my head. They were curious and concerned, but I had brushed them off, not wanting to talk about it. I felt a mix of confusion and embarrassment about why I'd reacted that way. Why had I felt such a strong urge to help? It was a question I didn't have an answer to yet.
I rolled over in bed, staring at the ceiling, and tried to make sense of the day. It felt strange, realizing I had cared so much about someone I barely knew.
As I lay on my bed, replaying the events from today, one question kept nagging at me What's Professor Marsh's full name? Why did I care so much? It wasn't like me to get so caught up in someone I barely knew.
The way she handled the situation with such calm strength, even with a cut on her hand, was impressive. I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to her than just the stern professor I'd seen in class.
I tossed and turned, trying to push the thoughts away, but they kept coming back. Why did I feel so invested? Why did I care so much about her full name, about her? It was a puzzle I couldn't quite solve, and it kept me up all night, wondering what it all meant.
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