The Hard love

Chapter 2: Shared Moments

In the weeks following their initial meeting, Mitsugi Arkinosh Sungbin found himself increasingly drawn to Professor Isekai Nischovich Suguri. What began as admiration for the professor's achievements soon deepened into a genuine curiosity and respect for the man behind the titles. Suguri, with his vast knowledge and warm demeanor, quickly became Mitsugi's favorite mentor.

One afternoon, Mitsugi was studying in the library when he received an email from Professor Suguri, requesting a meeting to discuss an upcoming project. Heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves, Mitsugi headed to the professor's office.

As he entered the room, Suguri looked up from his desk and greeted him with a smile. "Mitsugi, thank you for coming. Please, have a seat."

Mitsugi sat down, trying to hide his nervousness. "Thank you, Professor. You wanted to discuss the project?"

"Yes," Suguri replied, leaning back in his chair. "I was impressed with your recent presentation in class, and I think you'd be a great fit for a research project I'm starting. It's a blend of engineering and athletic performance—something I believe you have a unique perspective on."

Mitsugi's eyes lit up. "I'd love to be involved. What exactly would my role be?"

Suguri explained the project's details, and as they talked, Mitsugi found himself captivated not just by the content, but by the way Suguri's passion shone through. There was a genuine excitement in his eyes, and Mitsugi couldn't help but feel inspired.

As their discussion continued, Suguri paused and looked at Mitsugi thoughtfully. "You know, Mitsugi, I've noticed something about you. You have a rare combination of intellect and athleticism, much like I did at your age. It's not just talent; it's the drive to excel in multiple fields."

Mitsugi blushed, taken aback by the compliment. "Thank you, Professor. That means a lot coming from you."

Suguri smiled. "I see a lot of potential in you. And I want to help you realize that potential. If you're open to it, I'd like to mentor you, not just for this project, but beyond that as well."

Mitsugi's heart skipped a beat. "I'd be honored, Professor."

From that day forward, their interactions became more frequent and meaningful. Suguri guided Mitsugi through the complexities of the research project, while also offering insights into balancing academics with his responsibilities as School Council President and his commitments to chess and athletics.

One evening, as they worked late in the lab, Suguri noticed Mitsugi's fatigue. "You've been working hard, Mitsugi. How about we take a break and get some fresh air?"

They walked to a nearby park, the cool evening breeze providing a welcome respite from the stuffy lab. As they strolled, they talked about their lives, their passions, and their dreams. Mitsugi shared stories from his childhood, his love for chess, and his aspirations for the future. Suguri, in turn, spoke about his journey from being a world champion football player to becoming a professor and engineer.

The more they shared, the more they discovered common ground. Suguri was not just a mentor to Mitsugi; he became a friend, a confidant. Mitsugi found himself looking forward to their meetings, cherishing the time they spent together.

One night, after an intense discussion about their project, they decided to grab dinner at a nearby café. As they sat across from each other, Mitsugi couldn't help but notice how the soft light accentuated Suguri's features, making him look even more striking.

"Professor," Mitsugi began hesitantly, "I've been thinking a lot about what you said—about finding balance and joy in what we do. I think I'm starting to understand it more, thanks to you."

Suguri smiled, a warm, genuine smile that made Mitsugi's heart flutter. "I'm glad to hear that, Mitsugi. It's important to find what truly makes you happy and pursue it with all your heart."

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world outside the café seemed to fade away. Mitsugi felt a connection that went beyond mentor and student, a bond that was slowly transforming into something deeper.

As the evening drew to a close, Suguri walked Mitsugi back to his dormitory. They paused at the entrance, the night air filled with unspoken words.

"Thank you for tonight, Professor," Mitsugi said softly. "I really enjoyed our time together."

"Me too, Mitsugi," Suguri replied, his voice equally soft. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Professor," Mitsugi said, watching as Suguri walked away, his heart full of emotions he was only beginning to understand.

In the quiet of his room, Mitsugi lay awake, replaying the evening's events in his mind. There was a growing realization within him—a realization that his feelings for Professor Suguri were evolving, blossoming into something more than admiration.

As the days passed, Mitsugi and Suguri continued to work closely together, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment. They were two souls finding solace and inspiration in each other, unaware that they were slowly, inevitably falling in love.