A veil of hearts

•be professional•

24
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The rhythmic thud of the basketball against the asphalt echoed through the court. Sweat poured down Joshua's face, his shirt clinging to his body as he dribbled, pivoted, and shot with an intensity that bordered on desperation. His friends called for passes, shouted encouragement, but Joshua seemed to be in a world of his own, pushing himself to the brink of exhaustion.

Mike stood on the sidelines, his brow furrowed with concern as he watched his friend play as if his life depended on it. It wasn't just a game anymore; it was catharsis, a physical manifestation of some inner turmoil that Joshua couldn't – or wouldn't – voice.

"Come on, Josh!" someone shouted. "Take a breather, man!"

But Joshua ignored the plea, driving towards the basket once more. His layup bounced off the rim, and as he landed, his legs finally gave out. He stumbled, catching himself on his knees, chest heaving as he fought to catch his breath.

Mike was by his side in an instant, offering a water bottle. "Enough, Josh. You're going to hurt yourself."

Joshua looked up, his eyes wild and unfocused. For a moment, it seemed he might argue, but then the fight drained out of him. He accepted the water bottle with a shaky hand, gulping down half its contents in one go.

"Thanks," he muttered, using his shirt to wipe the sweat from his face.

Mike shooed away the other players, giving them some privacy. Once they were alone, he crouched down next to Joshua. "What's going on, man? I haven't seen you play like this since... well, ever."

Joshua was quiet for a long moment, staring at the ground. When he finally spoke, his voice was barely above a whisper. "Aina texted me last night."

Mike's eyebrows shot up. "Aina? What did she say?"

Joshua pulled out his phone, his fingers trembling slightly as he pulled up the message. He read it aloud, his voice tight with emotion:

"Dear Professor Joshua,

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to formally apologize for my recent absences and to update you on my situation.

Firstly, I want to express my sincere gratitude for all you have done for me, particularly in teaching microbiology. Your lectures and guidance have been invaluable to my academic journey.

I've been dealing with some personal issues, and I've come to realize that I need to seek professional help to work through them. I've started seeing a therapist and am committed to this process of self-improvement.

I appreciate all the support you've offered beyond your role as my professor. However, I believe it's best for me to focus on my healing process independently at this time. Please know that your concern has been noted and appreciated, but no further support is necessary.

I will be returning to class soon and I assure you that I will catch up on all missed work promptly. Thank you for your understanding during this time.

Respectfully, Aina"

As Joshua finished reading, he looked up at Mike, his eyes a storm of conflicting emotions. "She's thanking me for teaching her microbiology, Mike. And telling me she doesn't need my support anymore. It's so... formal. So distant."

Mike sat down next to his friend, processing the information. "It sounds like she's trying to establish some clear boundaries, Josh. That's probably a healthy thing for both of you."