105 Well-Concealed Secre (2/2)

I looked at Professor Singh and realized that he was a gossipy old man. Worse than those women you see in dramas.

”No, I liked kissing him!” I exclaimed, a little too loudly. I could see some heads turn and I hung my head, hiding from the inspection. Professor Singh cleared his throat and a minute of silence ensued.

”Okay, what is the problem, again? He confessed his feelings. You kissed him and you know you like him, too. So...” He motioned me to explain what the problem was.

”I liked it and him. But I don't want a relationship with him,” I told him. ”It's embarrassing, okay? I did it on impulse and now I can't help but feel awkward around him.”

”Do I know this guy?” he asked, his pitch becoming higher.

”No!” I responded immediately.

”Okay, so I know this guy,” he confirmed much to my dissatisfaction. ”Anyway, I don't need to know who he is. Must be a nice guy... You don't want a relationship at the moment. I understand. So, why don't you start something casual?” He blinked.

”Casual? He's too nice and understanding. I couldn't possibly...” I trailed off, frustrated.

”So, he'll understand that you're not ready for a relationship.” He shrugged.

”So simple?” I was confused. ”No, you don't understand. It feels wrong to just take advantage of him.”

He rolled his eyes. ”Believe me, the guy won't mind if you take advantage of him. The first rule is to be transparent about your intentions. You're not ready for a relationship right now but you want to have a physical relationship with him. That's perfectly normal. Now, the next question would be, do you want a relationship in the future? If yes, do you see yourself with him or someone else? Make sure you have these boundaries and you will be fine.”

Boundaries, there it was again.

”And if he isn't up to the mark?”

”Well, I'm your friend. Not their. I can only be biased towards you. Now, if I knew this other guy...” he trailed off, insinuating. I shook my head. ”Okay, I don't know him. Doesn't matter. Make full use of his shapely body and tell him you want to do dirty things to him.”

”Are you sure you're a professor? Your words are too salacious,” I commented with a hint of horror. I was effectively scandalized.

”Wel, you've called me your friend, so I must do good on that and embarrass you in front of people. Children these days are bold. They pounce at chances, so you should follow the trends.” I snickered as I watched him take another bite of the sandwich.

”Oh, if it doesn't work out, there is a guy I know who you would be a great match with.” I raised my brow.

I saw Sebastian standing at the entrance of the canteen and dropped my head. He had found me too quick.

”I don't think I will be needing a match. For now.”

”Never say never. He studied Economics and did an MBA. He's rich, too.” He elbowed me and I didn't realize it until the man sat down beside me.

”Well, I'll keep that in mind,” I said lightly. ”What are you doing here?” I asked, turning to Sebastian.

”We didn't make breakfast this morning. What am I supposed to eat?” he asked. I could see the hint of a pout on his lips and turned to see Professor Singh's expression.

His expression was blank and well-concealed. I knew that he had figured out who the guy in my story was. He avoided looking at Sebastian but failed miserably.

”Harshit, why are you staring at me?” Sebastian asked, exasperated.

”No, I just remembered how you threatened those students to not approach you and waste your time. It all makes sense now.” He looked between us. So much for being inconspicuous.

”Why didn't it make sense then?” Sebastian's words were laced with sarcasm.

”You're right... why didn't it make sense then?” He took the last bite of his sandwich.

”The post-doctoral studies didn't really help, did they?” Sebastian clucked his tongue.

”Well, what can I do, Evie? It seems I am friends with him too.” He laughed and laughed and I just hid my face in embarrassment.

God, if friends were supposed to embarrass you at every turn, I wasn't sure if I wanted any.