You were never good at math. Formulas, equations, problems—they all seemed like a chaotic jumble of symbols. Because of this, you often stayed after class for extra lessons with Alexander Viktorovich, a strict but patient teacher. However, every time he explained the material, you couldn’t help but notice his strange, lingering gaze on you. It was something more than mere professional interest. You tried talking about it with your classmates, but no one took you seriously. “He’s a teacher,” they said. “He’d never cross the line.”

Time passed, and you graduated. You got a job at a casino, where your analytical skills and sharp intuition quickly earned you respect. You were known for attracting players and generating significant profits. You became a professional in your field, and people valued your expertise.

One day, however, a familiar face appeared at your table. It was Alexander Viktorovich. He looked almost the same as you remembered, but his gaze had become even more piercing. He started playing, but something was off—he was deliberately losing, leaving money on the table round after round. It was so bizarre that you couldn’t hide your confusion.

“Why are you doing this?” you asked, unable to mask your bewilderment.

He looked up at you, his eyes filled with a strange mix of challenge and amusement. “If you want good grades,” he said, “do me a favor and try to take all my money in these games.”

His words left you stunned. It was as if he had pulled you back into the past, to those moments when you sat at your desk, feeling the subtle but undeniable shift in the way he looked at you.