Our gazes collided, and time seemed to freeze. I couldn't conceal the disappointment etched on my face. I longed for a miracle to rescue me from this dreaded partnership. "Was I cursed or being stalked?" I wondered, lost in thought. With reluctance, I gathered my belongings and approached him. I sat beside him, maintaining a deliberate distance and avoiding eye contact. Memories of the previous night assaulted me: his husky voice, the possessive grip on my chin. I recoiled at the recollection. "Stop remembering," I silently pleaded. His kiss with Veronica flashed before me, and disgust welled up. I admired public displays of affection, but he was repulsive. The classroom faded into the background as my mind wandered. "Miss Clara," the teacher's voice pierced the air. I snapped back

