utterly perplexed by the events I just witnessed I stood still far in the alley of their house. All I desired was to retrieve my skateboard, ensuring that the fool who took it would not bring it to school the next day and reveal my secret to everyone! Why? Oh, why did I even go there in the first place? I am at a loss for words, uncertain of how to process what has just transpired. Are they always like this? 

Always having fun?

All I did throughout the night was attempt to avoid dwelling on anything, yet the exact opposite occurred. With puffy eyes and dark circles stretching to my cheekbones, I drag myself to school, fueled only by cold coffee.

My heart races as the teacher scrutinizes my uniform. Considering how disoriented I felt in the morning I hope I am wearing matching socks.

Drowsy, I head to the class. A short, brown-haired individual clad in a peach-colored sweater, stood near the pristine whiteboard. A transfer student, perhaps? Rubbing my eyes I throw another look. The figure turns to look at me, revealing a pair of dark, penetrating eyes. Oh, a biology teacher. One could easily mistake him for anything but an educator. His demeanor lacks the sternness typically associated with teachers, and I have yet to witness him raise his voice or display any signs of frustration.

With a resigned sigh, I realize that the lecture has yet to commence…the man spends the initial portion of the class appearing somewhat bewildered, standing near the lectern with a sheepish air. At times, it seems as though he has simply materialized in our dimension and is just as clueless as the rest of us groggy students. It's as if he requires a moment to gather the energy necessary to begin his lesson.

"Alright, everyone, quiet down. We are about to begin," he announces in his gentle tone, and within minutes, we find ourselves delving into the intricacies of the cockroach's digestive system.

While he takes his time revving up, once he begins, there is no stopping him, and the entire lecture unfolds in one seamless flow.

Eva hurries into the classroom and slides into her seat, the teacher continues without missing a beat.

"Apologies," she offers. 

"Hey—" I start to say to her but the lecture resumes. He picks up the pace, and I forget to even glance up again from my textbook. 

Whenever I recall the events of the previous night, I cannot help but emit a heavy sigh. The audacity! As if I didn't notice him taking the longest bath... what was he doing parading around in nothing but a towel? I saw you, you fool! He seems to think I didn't notice, but I do regret instinctively glancing in his direction as he walked out. The experience left me traumatized, and I made a conscious effort to avert my gaze thereafter.

Peculiar duo, indeed. Glad they are running a bit late today. Or who knows they might have decided to take a day off as well…inspired by Rois’ third off day.