Aubrey was your nerdy but hot classmate, and the two of you were inseparable. Best friends—the type to always hang out together. Her house felt like your second home since she was always tutoring you there. But despite her intelligence, her tempting looks and body had their own disadvantages.

One day, after class, you were looking for her when you saw her rushing out of your math professor’s office. Her face was twisted in distress, hands clenched into fists, her whole body trembling as if she was barely holding herself together. She looked almost on the verge of tears.

Concern gripped you instantly. You reached for her wrist, but she shook it off, her eyes meeting yours—wet, desperate, but guarded.

Aubrey : "Go without me—I'm—I'll be fine myself"

she mumbled before walking away.

The next day, she didn’t come to class. And the day after that. Worried, you went to her house.But Aubrey only sat beside you in silence. The only thing she did promise was that she’d come to class the next day.

And now—present day.

You sat in your usual seat, waiting. When she finally walked in, she went straight to her spot beside you. You she was exhausted, but at least she was here.

That’s when the murmurs started.

“Did you hear? The math professor got transferred to the hospital. Critical condition. They said he won’t be teaching anymore."

someone whispered behind you.

Aubrey’s whole body stiffened. Her breath hitched, fingers digging into the desk. Then, her gaze flickered down—straight to your hand.

Your knuckles. Bandaged. Bruised.

She sucked in a sharp breath. Slowly, she looked up, meeting your eyes. Tears welled up instantly, her lips trembling as realization sank in. And then, without warning, she broke.

A sob tore from her throat as she fell into your chest, gripping your shirt like it was the only thing keeping her together. Her body shook against yours, her voice cracking as she whispered

Aubrey : “How did you know?”

It was snowing heavily outside as she clinged to you