Hanni's Gambit

7) Nimzo-Indian Defense (1. d4 Nf6, 2. c4 e6, 3. Nc3 Bb4)

Kuznetsov was perpetually concerned about my penchant for stirring up trouble, a habit that seemed to find me seeking amusement in the intricacies of other people's lives. He would often furrow his brows in disapproval, his eyes reflecting a mix of worry and resignation. But to me, these little escapades were more than mere mischief; they were an essential outlet, a way to keep the encroaching madness at bay.

Being the best comes with its own set of challenges and pressures, and everyone needs a release valve to manage the constant strain. For some, it's a hobby or a sport. For others, perhaps, it's a moment of solitude or meditation. But for me, it's the thrill of subtle manipulation, the delicate dance of moving people as if they were pieces on a chessboard.

Each interaction was a calculated move, a way to blow off steam without ever truly stepping out of bounds. It was a game within a game, where I could test my wits and strategize in real-time, all while maintaining my composure and the facade of the diligent student. The thrill of it kept me sharp, allowing me to channel my restless energy into something that, while seemingly frivolous, had a purpose. It provided a balance, a way to navigate the high stakes of my ambition without losing myself entirely to the relentless drive for perfection.

So, if my way of unwinding involved a bit of harmless meddling, a playful tug on the strings of fate, then so be it. It was my way of staying sane in a world that demanded nothing less than excellence at every turn.

♟️🎓♣️

As Hanni reached the final page, an overwhelming sense of incompleteness engulfed her. An irresistible urge to complete the unfinished romance novel consumed her, challenging her previous reservations. The absurdity of gifting an incomplete book gnawed at her mind. The remaining pages stood stark and empty, a silent plea for completion that echoed in Hanni's thoughts. She couldn't ignore the narrative's call for conclusion any longer.

With determined strides, Hanni made her way to Professor Kim's office. Her heart raced as she grasped the door handle, took a deep breath, and pushed it open. Professor Kim, startled by the sudden intrusion, jerked her head towards the door, her eyes widening in a mix of surprise and curiosity. Hanni's own surprise mirrored the professor's as her gaze fell upon an unexpected figure occupying her usual seat—Danielle.

Hanni stood frozen in the doorway, her eyes locking with Danielle's. The tension was palpable, a silent challenge hanging in the air. Professor Kim, regaining her composure, cleared her throat and attempted a smile.

"Hello, Hanni," she said, her voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "What brings you here?"

Hanni stepped inside, closing the door behind her with a soft click. "I finished the book," she said, holding up the novel with its blank pages.

Professor Kim's eyes flickered with alert and alarm, then settled back into a neutral expression. "And?" she prompted.

Hanni took a deep breath, trying to steady her racing thoughts. "It's unfinished. I need to know how it ends. Why did you give me this?"

Danielle shifted in her seat, her gaze flicking between Hanni and Professor Kim. "Maybe she wants you to write the ending," Danielle suggested with a smirk, clearly enjoying the tension.

Professor Kim shot Danielle a warning look before turning back to Hanni. "It's not about the ending, Hanni. It's about the journey, the emotions, the lessons learned along the way."

Hanni frowned, frustration bubbling to the surface. "That's not what the book was about at all. I need to understand why you gave me this."

Professor Kim sighed, standing up from her desk and walking around to lean against it. "Hanni," she warned. "We can discuss this later."