The much-anticipated history trip began on a breezy Friday. Students laughed around the bonfire late into the night, singing songs and sharing stories under the stars. It felt magical, a night no one wanted to end - until Professor Lee arrived.
"It's late now," he said firmly. "You should all head to your rooms."
Reluctantly, the students scattered. Bella gave him a small smile before walking to her room.
A few minutes later, a knock sounded at her door. It was Kabir.
"Hey, Bella," he said, stepping inside. "I want to tell you something."
Before she could respond, he blurted out, "I liked you from the first day. I love you." And without warning, he grabbed her and tried to kiss her.
Bella resisted, struggling and calling for help.
Just then, Professor Lee, who had been checking on students in the corridor, heard the noise. He rushed in, pulled Kabir away, and punched him. Bella collapsed into tears.
"It's okay," the professor said gently. "You're safe now."
From that day forward, Bella's feelings for Professor Lee began to deepen. She started dressing simply, the way she heard Kabir liked, though her heart now beat only for Lee. Her grandmother noticed the sudden brightness in Bella and, though puzzled, was happy to see her smile.
Bella attended every class. One afternoon, she asked Lee out for coffee to thank him for helping her that night. At first, he declined, but later agreed.
After coffee, they went to a quiet hillside to talk. There, Bella opened up.
"My mother died by suicide," she said, tears filling her eyes. "She couldn't bear that my father remarried without her consent. I was just seven…"
Professor Lee listened, his expression soft. "I'm sorry, Bella. That's a heavy burden to carry. But not everyone is the same."
Bella, who had never been in love before, started seeing him often. She began calling him by his first name - Lee - and over time, he became her entire world.
On her birthday, Lee surprised her with a cake and decorations at his home.
"Happy birthday," he said. "I love you."
While eating cake, some landed on Bella's white shirt.