Marrying the Man in the Dark

Emma’s brow furrowed, a subtle indication of her perplexity. “Third year,” she confirmed.

The palpable aura emanating from Cherise unsettled her deeply.

An uneasy tension settled in Emma’s core, manifesting in the nervous nibbling of her lip.

Realization dawned upon her with a jolt.

Though it was evident she held the role of interrogator, why did she find herself unexpectedly assuming the position of being interrogated?

“Oh, third year?” Emma echoed, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

Cherise’s smile remained intact as she probed, “Since you’ve graced our halls for three years, I presume familiarity with our school motto?”

Emma pressed her lips together, hesitating before reluctantly acquiescing to Cherise’s inquiry. “Our school motto… it’s to absorb, heed, uphold, follow, enact, embody wisdom.”

Cherise’s smile widened subtly. “You’ve committed it to memory quite admirably. Yet, one must ponder, why do you not abide by it?”

her confusion evident. “How can you assume I haven’t

countered, “Then, allow me to pose this question: absorb, heed, uphold, follow, enact, embody

guard. “But what

in the speculation of others‘ private affairs. Does that grant you a license to do the same?” Cherise’s tone remained composed yet

Cherise were enough to send Emma into a stuttering spiral

a journalism student. I simply require your assistance for

of pride in her eyes, “Surely, you wouldn’t withhold

me–it’s only natural,” she added, her words

“Certainly, if your ambition is to merely revel in reporting on others‘ private affairs and stirring online

your request,”

I’m prepared to share aspects

herself at a loss

pressed her lips together, acknowledging the

intent

testament to her transparency. “As your senior, I’m prepared to share my life openly. Transparency and sincerity are my

her eyes, Emma studied the woman before