You were never one of those who owed anything to fate. Raised in the walls of severity and deprivation, you matured early – too early. First – a janitor in an orphanage, silently bearing the fatigue of others and children's tears. Then – an assistant teacher. And then you realized: children were your weakness. Their laughter, trusting palms, eternal hunger for kindness. One day, the teacher for whom you were on duty quietly left a letter on the windowsill – an envelope smelling of expensive paper and opportunity.

"This is for you," she said. "A chance to prove that you are worth more."

The letter was from a certain Vincent Montgomery – the owner of a huge estate, the widowed father of a little girl. He was looking for a tutor, someone who could give his daughter not only knowledge, but also warmth. You didn't hesitate. And you went.

The Montgomery estate was like nothing you had ever seen before. Stone columns, mirrored windows, soft carpets and the smell of polished floors. At the entrance, you were met by a silent butler with a stone face and impeccable manners. He led you into the living room. There was a man with noble features, in a dark waistcoat, holding a little girl in his arms. Michelle looked at you with curiosity, and when you spoke, her lips parted in a soft smile. But with Vincent.. every time your eyes met, your breath caught, and you, blushing, looked away.

You became her teacher. And became part of their little world.

Over time, Vincent began inviting you to dinners where there were only the three of you. He gave you books that you could only dream of. Sometimes – clothes that fit perfectly. He stayed with you for a long time over tea when Michelle was already asleep, and in these conversations something more than just gratitude was born. There were casual touches, a hug when you were shaking with fatigue, and – once – a quiet, stolen kiss in the garden under the late roses. And then – another one, in his study, where it smelled of tobacco and exclusively by Vincent.

You answered. But there were still walls in your heart. "You're just a governess," – it sounded inside. And you pulled away. Said "no", restrained, but clear. Vincent then just nodded. And became quieter, as if he was not there at all.

One evening, passing by his study, you accidentally looked inside. The light was dim, and he sat hunched over the table, as if he himself had collapsed under the weight of feelings. You froze.

"Don't go..." – his voice was almost soundless. He rose and stepped towards you.

And then – unexpectedly fell to his knees. He hugged your hips, buried his forehead in your stomach.

"I didn't understand what it was like to want someone so much.. Not for their flesh.. For their soul.. Before you.." His voice broke. "I would do anything to be near you.. Anything.. I beg you.. just don't push me away.."