5 - Frustration at its Finest

ERA’S POV

“So, rather than being angry with your professor, thank him instead."

To be honest, that's not what I expected my parents to tell me. I just don't understand why it's like they're just giving me away like I'm a cat being strayed into a corner or being thrown in the trash. I can't imagine why they even seem to have turned their backs on me. When it is solely due to financial problems. I just can't believe it.

I just sat quietly in the passenger’s seat. He was still eating a lollipop he had bought from our very own gossiper Aling Puring, listening to pop music, tapping his thigh to the beat with his hand. I try not to cry next to his presence, but my teardrops are rolling from down my cheeks. So, I just looked out the window.

“I didn’t buy you, and they didn’t sell you to me. Stop contemplating things,” he comforted me, but his words were nonchalant. Will I be happy with his comfort? Because it sounded like it's out from the nostrils.

We came to a halt in front of a fairly large house. The gate opened on its own, as if by remote control. My tears, however, would not stop. I don't want to get out of the car. I'd like to be alone. However, his unbuckling my seatbelt, as well as my tears, is one of the qualities that I look for in my ideal man.

“Come on, I know it’s tough. Separation anxiety is tough but there are times that we must make rational decisions for us to go on.”

He showed a warm smile before getting out of the car. I thought he would leave, but he opened the door for me. He carried the suitcase from the compartment.

“I know we are both tired so you can begin your duty after you recuperate. I'll just take you to your room and leave you to rest.”

I just followed him. I am not myself as we walk. I even stumbled behind him. Ah? Has he stopped walking?

"Go to bed first. You don't have a class schedule tomorrow so it's okay not to start right away. Just rest first—"

“Are you certain about this?! Why did you choose me over everyone else?!”

“You’re just exhausted from what happened. I’ll go now—"

“Tell me first! There is a deep reason for this! You won't choose me like that!”

I knew it was a mistake to argue with him, but I was curious as to why. This man will not impose something on himself without a reason.

With a sigh and scratching an eyebrow, he didn't seem to want to tell me. No, Era. Even if he doesn't tell you, you have plenty of time to ask questions. You are the only one in the house—

Oh, my craping god... what? I am alone with him?! W- We're cohabitating?! Why hadn't I thought of that from the start?!

“Let’s call it a day, all right? We’re both exhausted. Or do you want me to sleep here with you—"

“N- No!" I even slapped his hand, "Keep your distance from me! Don't come near me! Stay away!”

Ugh! He really likes to tease me! I was so annoyed; I just threw the pillow at him. He's out of his mind! Crazy prick.

I lay down on the bed when he left the room. Hmm. To be fair, the foam is soft and the sheets smell pleasant. It smells just like a fabric conditioner. Wow, I'm at a loss for words. I wasn't expecting my room to be this spotless.

What will happen tomorrow? We both don't have any schedule. So, he'll be staying here? Gosh!? That would be awkward!

It was roughly one o'clock in the morning. It didn't look good to roam around a stranger's house but I went out of the room and walk around his house. It's enormous. But there are only two rooms, they are direct across from each other— Sh*t! Does that mean Sir Mikhail is there in the room?

When it comes to home design, he is clearly not artistic. Gray and black dominate the interior. Actually, I only sleep in the living room, specifically on the sofa. So… I'm still getting used to having my own room.

There is a swimming pool in the backyard. When I saw him sitting in the gutter, I quickly took a step back. Of course, I was startled. But I know his broad back so I know he is Sir Mikhail. He is drinking beer.

“Hmm? Why brings you here?”

"I- I want to take a bath... but I don't know where your bathroom is?"

“Tch. You’re not very good at lying. Do you want some beer? Oh, don't drink. Why are you still up?”

Sipping beer, then looks at me— deeply. He looks drowsy but he just keeps himself from closing his eyes. He’s gradually dozing off with those cans of beers.

“Hm. You can’t sleep… I see.”

“And how about you, Sir? A- Aren't you sleepy?”

I couldn't help but scratch my neck while talking to him. Now that he's drunk, I can't talk to him with courage. This is the perfect time to ask him everything I wanted to know. But what if he's in a bad mood tomorrow?

“Nah. It’s my free time to be drunk. After all of the conversations and discussions with everyone. I just missed being alone. It’s exhausting on my part.”

Oh. Okay. Does he have a problem? How should I respond to that sentiment? I'm not sure.

I was planning on leaving him alone because he might ask me again to drink with him. I don't want to drink with him at all. Sir, if you're still with me—

"AAHH!"

UGH! It's a good thing I know how to swim! Why did he grab my hand and dragged me to the pool?! Then he simply laughs at me?! It’s so cold!

"What the?! You know what, Sir?! We’re not close, okay?! Stop it!”

“Oh. We don’t?”

"Yes!" Oh, wow! He's just really laughing at me! Is that funny? Is it? Ah, sh*t! I'm getting cold because of him. So annoying. While he was just there, floating on the pool.

“Era, I don't care if you don’t want us to get closed with each other. I totally get your concern. And I know the responsibility you have is too heavy, but I think it would be best if you forget it now.”