Chapter 6: Shifting Tides

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Mitsugi Arkinosh Sungbin walked back to his dormitory, Yuki’s words echoing in his mind. The night was cool, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves and carrying the faint scent of the sea. He took a deep breath, trying to sort out his feelings.

The next day, Mitsugi arrived early at Professor Isekai Nischovich Suguri’s office. As he knocked lightly on the door, it opened almost immediately, revealing Suguri with a welcoming smile.

“Good morning, Mitsugi. Come in,” Suguri said, stepping aside to let him enter.

They began their session as usual, delving into complex theories and engaging in vibrant discussions. However, Mitsugi couldn’t shake the lingering thoughts from the previous evening. Suguri seemed to sense his distraction.

“Is everything alright, Mitsugi? You seem preoccupied,” Suguri asked, his eyes filled with genuine concern.

Mitsugi hesitated, then decided to be honest. “Yuki saw me leaving your apartment last night. He… he questioned our relationship.”

Suguri’s expression turned serious. “And what did you tell him?”

“I told him that our relationship is based on mutual respect and learning,” Mitsugi replied, meeting Suguri’s gaze. “But, Professor, I need to ask… do you feel that too?”

Suguri sighed, leaning back in his chair. “Mitsugi, our relationship is indeed rooted in respect and academic growth. However, I’d be lying if I said that’s all it is.”

Mitsugi’s heart skipped a beat. “What do you mean?”

Suguri looked at him intently. “Over time, I’ve come to care for you deeply, Mitsugi. Our connection goes beyond the classroom. But I understand the complications, the boundaries we must respect.”

Mitsugi felt a rush of emotions. “I… I care for you too, Professor. More than I can express. But I’m afraid. Afraid of crossing lines, of what others might think.”

Suguri reached across the desk, gently taking Mitsugi’s hand. “Fear is natural. But we must decide what’s more important: adhering to societal expectations or acknowledging our true feelings.”

Mitsugi felt a warmth spread through him at Suguri’s touch. “I want to be with you, but how can we navigate this? The risks, the judgments…”

Suguri smiled softly. “We take it one step at a time. We remain professional in public, but in private, we can explore what this means for us. No rush, no pressure.”

Mitsugi nodded, feeling a sense of relief and excitement. “I’d like that.”

They spent the rest of the session in a comfortable silence, their work interspersed with stolen glances and shared smiles. As Mitsugi left the office, he felt a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to Suguri.

That evening, as the sun set over the campus, Mitsugi found himself standing outside Suguri’s apartment once more. This time, he wasn’t filled with doubt but with anticipation. Suguri opened the door, and without a word, they embraced, holding each other tightly.

In that moment, Mitsugi realized that their relationship, though unconventional and fraught with challenges, was something worth pursuing. The tides had shifted, and together, they were ready to face whatever came their way.

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