27| How Can I Hate You?

JULIE

"Well, why do you want to keep chewing gums in my glass, Ms. Dawson?" He asks, now giving me his full attention. His eyes rest on me and I feel my cheeks heating up just by gaining his attention. Through that look, he can burn me alive.

"Hm?" He urges me to say, leaning closer. I did not know that I was silent till now.

I clear my throat and say, "Chewing gum distracts me. I… I have…"

"Anxiety issues, I know, Ms. Dawson. Your father cleared it already. But the problem is, chewing gum distracts, as you said, yeah?" I give him a quick nod so that he continues, "And it distracts you from what I teach, so I have to scold you."

I do not say anything.

He sighs, adding, "And you're easily distracted, Ms. Dawson. When I'm teaching, I find you either looking out through the window or mumbling under your breath. Now, I have no other way than to yell at you and remind you of the ongoing class." He rests his elbow on the desk as he leans towards the table, adding, "I know you're good