Unwritten Rules

New Beginning

Kierra's POV

A week before graduation, the campus buzzed with excitement. Students chattered eagerly about their upcoming futures, their anticipation palpable. The once-looming cloud of rumors had dissipated, and the atmosphere was filled with a sense of relief and optimism.

The administration had taken swift action to address the situation surrounding Mike and me. They had recognized the impact of the rumors and the damage they could have caused. In a series of closed-door meetings, they had come to a resolution that would protect both our reputations and Mike's career.

When I was called into the administration office, I felt a mix of nervousness and curiosity. As I entered the room, I saw a few familiar faces, including Ma'am Maricar, who greeted me with a reassuring smile.

"Congratulations, Kierra," one of the administrators began, their tone warm. "We wanted to let you know that we've made a decision regarding the recent situation."

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "Thank you. I appreciate the opportunity to hear this."

The administrator continued, "After careful consideration, we've decided to handle the matter discreetly. We recognize the value of Professor Mike Albarez as an educator and the unfairness of allowing the situation to tarnish his reputation. Therefore, the incidents involving you and Mike will be officially recorded as hearsay, and no formal action will be taken against him."

A wave of relief washed over me. I had feared that the damage to Mike's career would be irreversible. "So, you mean that the rumors won't affect his career?"

"Exactly," the administrator confirmed. "We've taken steps to ensure that the truth of the situation remains private. The public narrative will be that these were merely rumors, and there will be no official record of the events as they happened."

I glanced at Ma'am Maricar, who gave me an encouraging nod. "Thank you so much," I said, my voice trembling with gratitude. "I can't express how much this means to both Mike and me."

"Of course," another administrator added. "We understand the importance of protecting your privacy and that of Professor Albarez. We commend you for making a difficult decision that was in the best interest of everyone involved."

The conversation continued, with the administrators outlining their plan to maintain confidentiality and how they would manage any residual rumors. They assured me that they would handle any further inquiries discreetly and ensure that Mike's professional integrity remained intact.

As I left the office, a sense of peace settled over me. The administration's decision meant that Mike could continue his career without the shadow of scandal hanging over him, and I could move forward with my own future, knowing that our story wouldn't be defined by the rumors that had tried to tear us apart.

The week before graduation, I felt a renewed sense of hope and closure. The excitement of the upcoming ceremony and the support from my friends and mentors helped me focus on the positive aspects of this transitional period in my life. The rumors that once threatened to overshadow everything had been effectively put to rest, and I could now look forward to graduation with a sense of accomplishment and optimism for the future.

-

The day before graduation was filled with an air of finality and reflection. Amid the celebratory buzz and preparations, Mike reached out to me, asking if we could have one last conversation. I agreed, knowing that it was an opportunity for us to seek closure and face the reality of our situation.