Chapter 8

And so, somehow, I ended up with Harvey.

At twenty-five, I had thought my ability to love had withered, yet in my most vulnerable moment, I encountered someone I wanted to stay with.

This relationship reminded me of the innocence and sweetness of youth, a kind of love I had once believed was irretrievable.

Every day after his lectures, Harvey would wait for me outside my classroom. I'd share with him the small dramas and mundane details of my lessons, or we'd discuss my latest design ideas. He'd take my hand, and together we'd walk to our favorite little restaurant near campus for dinner.

On weekends, I would stay home sketching designs. He never disturbed me, respecting my need for solitude, but his presence was always tangible. Still, there was no denying that Harvey was incredibly clingy in his own way.

Our budding romance didn't escape the keen eyes of the landlord and his wife. The landlady's glances toward me became increasingly meaningful, though she always held her tongue