Despite the charm of his actions, Jared still carried a youthful innocence in every move he made.
I found myself caught in a dilemma.
Gathering my courage, I looked him in the eyes and said, "Jared, I don't know what you think you're doing, but I hope you understand the implications. If this was just a moment of impulse, I'm willing to pretend it never happened."

A shadow passed over his eyes when he heard that. He looked away and withdrew his hand, seeming suddenly lost.
"Also, I can't afford to take care of you right now," I added.
His once imposing presence seemed to shrink.
"Go and wash up, Yvette. I'm sorry about this," he murmured.
After Jared left, I was calmer, but I couldn't help but wonder if what I said was too harsh. Truthfully, I didn't want to hurt him.
By 8:30AM, Rachel and I were on our way to work.

We shared everything, and part of me felt I should confess the entire incident to her. But before doing so, there was something I needed to know.
On the bus, I asked Rachel, "What did you do last night?"
She laughed in response, and in that instant, I realized she had orchestrated the whole thing.
"Didn't you say Jared is handsome? I thought this would give you a chance to get close to him," Rachel said.

"Come on, you must have been too hot at night and pushed me into the middle. I know you well enough."
"I knew it. I knew you would understand me."
I gave her a pointed look. However, I knew she would probably send Jared home immediately if she knew what had just happened.
"I'm sorry. If it bothers you, I can have them go home right away."
We were on the same wavelength, but I hadn't seen enough of him yet. There was no way I would let them go home this early.
"It's fine. I don't mind. But tell me, are there really a lot of girls crazy about Jared? Is he really that handsome?" I asked, feigning nonchalance.
"I can't deny it. Last semester, a new music teacher came to their class, and she's about our age. He always told me how good she looked. Such a little brat," Rachel shared.
She was right. At my age, I could be his teacher.
"That's just how kids are. They easily crush on younger teachers," I replied, trying to keep the conversation light, but inside, I felt a storm of emotions.
After years of waiting, I finally met someone who made my heart race.
However, he was someone I shouldn't have feelings for.
Despite this, I couldn't help but hope he felt the same way about me, too.