Chapter 971: Chapter 971



“What’s going on, Lynda? You haven’t been turning in your assignments, and your test scores are the lowest. Out of everyone in your year, I’ve always had high hopes for you and Dunn. But lately, your performance has been falling behind his.”

Lynda pressed her lips together, having nothing to argue.

It was true—she had been so distracted lately that she had repeatedly missed submitting her assignments on time.

“I’m sorry, sir. I’ll do better and be more mindful next time.”

The professor studied her closely, adjusting his glasses. “I’m more concerned about your disposition than your grades. Are you going through something difficult recently?”

Lynda shook her head. “No, sir.”

But the professor believed otherwise. “If you’re struggling with something, you can tell me or anyone you trust, so we can help you figure it out. I understand that you’re under a lot of pressure since you’re in your senior year, but it’s okay to ask for help.”

“I know, sir.”

The professor sighed, handing back her error-riddled assignment. “Rewrite it and submit it back to me.”

“I will. Thank you, sir.”

Walking out of the classroom, Lynda felt her collected demeanor crumble. She didn’t understand the shadow of sadness in her heart. Was this awful feeling because of one man?

If this continued, the professor would lose faith in her. Even she was beginning to despise herself, let alone Dunn.

Thinking about how to forget her feelings for Dunn and end this pettiness, Lynda walked numbly toward the teaching building’s entrance.

But as soon as she caught sight of him, her spirits lifted instantly.

She raised her hand, ready to greet him, when she saw him pull a girl into his arms.

Her hand froze mid-air, her gaze dropping to his affectionate and warm smile as he ruffled the girl’s hair. The girl shyly buried herself in his embrace.

It was the first time Lynda had seen that look on Dunn’s face—and this side of himself. She craned her neck to see the girl’s face, but the wall blocked her view. Then Dunn moved, shielding the girl completely, as if protecting her from the flames of Lynda’s jealousy.

Lynda felt her eyes sting, and before she could burst into tears, she pivoted and hid behind a pillar. Fortunately, no one was nearby to see her shatter inside. Her heart ached as she tried to process what she had just witnessed.

She used to believe Dunn was simply that way—a tough exterior masking a warm heart, someone who struggled to show affection. Now she understood: his indifference was reserved for those he didn’t care about. For someone he liked, he could be incredibly gentle and patient.

“Hey!” Aurora blushed as she wriggled out of Dunn’s embrace. “You’ve messed up my hair!”

Dunn stared at her. “You owe me.”

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