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?”

aback, Emma glanced up at Cherise, her confusion evident.

me to pose this question: absorb, heed, uphold, follow, enact, embody wisdom. Among these virtues, does any justify the indulgence in

“But what

online are but idle chatter, relishing 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

I simply require your

of pride in her eyes,

me–it’s only natural,” she added,

to merely revel in reporting on

accommodate your request,” Cherise assured, her demeanor composed.

you have any further inquiries, let’s address them together. I’m prepared to share aspects of my life

herself at a loss

pressed her lips together, acknowledging the eloquence of Cherise’s response.

her as a reporter intent on prying into private matters

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

eyes, Emma studied the woman before her.