of the previous night felt like a surreal blur, leaving her unsure whether the pain was a physical reminder or a par

er who had come to her aid. There was something unsettling yet intriguing about him. Despite her grati

ay seemed to drag on, each minute feeling like an eternity. She found herself absentmindedly

ies. The room buzzed with the usual chatter and laughter of students, but Sophia felt isolate

lion things on your mind. What's up?" Emma

lain her feelings. "Oh, it's nothing.

range? Do tell. You know I'

ossip. I had a bit of a... medical issue.

st piqued. "S

"Just a lecturer from the universi

u talking about Julian Harrington? I've

Emma's knowledge. "Yes, th

. Some say he's brilliant, others say he's a bit of

t wonder if Julian's reputation was more than just hearsay. She was drawn t

l preoccupied with Julian. As she passed by his office, she hesitated, glancing at the closed

office, his expression thoughtful and slightly distrac

voice carrying a warm tone. "Good to

"Oh, Professor Harrington. I'm... I'm feeling bet

I was concerned about how you were doing. May I o

ncern. "Sure, that would be nice.

f them. As they settled into a quiet corner, Julian's gaze was atten

ling you?" Julian aske

nusual condition of mine. I've never experience

metimes the unexpected can be overwhelming. If you'r

entally took a painkiller from a friend. Ever since then, I've been able to produce

n. "That sounds quite distressing. I'm sure it'

it happened and what it means. I feel like I'm caught between trying t

. If there's anything I can do to help or if you need s

lian's words. "Thank you, Professor

ing, and she appreciated his willingness to listen without judgment. Their conversation

ndeniably compelling about him. His empathy and concern had made a significant impact on her. She

ique, and his curiosity was piqued. He found himself wanting to learn more about her, not just as a stu

complexity of Sophia's condition and the connection they had forged were starting to consume his though

her of them had anticipated. The journey that lay before them was filled with possibilities, and as t