So, this is how it ends.
I lost nothing more than a man who didn’t love me—why should I feel sad? I should be celebrating, really. Today, I not only freed myself from Kelvin but also received the official notification: I’d made the finals for the national physics competition. Double the happiness, right?
But as I made my way down the bustling street, the sounds around me faded, my vision blurred and I felt light-headed. Maybe it was the blood loss, or the mix of joy and sorrow hitting all at once. My body grew heavy and before I could steady myself, darkness overtook me.
***
I woke up in an unfamiliar room, sunlight filtering through elegant curtains and a faint scent of sandalwood lingering in the air. The pain in my ankle was duller and when I glanced down, I noticed that my wound had been carefully re-bandaged. I tried to sit up, wincing slightly and then noticed a man sitting at a desk across the room.
He was writing intently, surrounded by stacks of books and scattered papers, occasionally pausing to tap his fingers against the wood as if in deep thought. His face, handsome and composed, looked vaguely familiar.
“Evan Blake?” I asked softly, still uncertain.
The man glanced up, his eyes warm as he gave a slight smile. Yes, it was him—Evan Blake, the prodigy of the physics world. With an IQ of 230, he had been known as a “medal collector” in international competitions since middle school. By twenty-five, he was already a renowned Harvard professor, someone every aspiring physicist admired.
“It’s me, Evan Blake. I’m the honorary chairman of this year’s physics competition,” he said, setting down his pen. His gaze was calm and reassuring.
“Oh, um… how did I end up here?” I mumbled, unsure of where to even begin.
Evan’s expression softened as he leaned back in his chair. “The organizers couldn’t reach you when they tried to call, so I decided to come by in person. I’ve read your work, Diana. Your research shows remarkable promise. But I didn’t expect to find our ‘physics genius’ injured in the street.” He offered a half-smile, his tone gentle. “Luckily, I was nearby.”
My cheeks flushed in embarrassment. I couldn’t possibly tell him that I’d fainted on the street because of a petty argument with Kelvin.
Sensing my discomfort, he waved a hand dismissively. “It’s alright; no need to explain. Let’s focus on getting you settled. I’ll take you back to the school soon to pack up your things. After that, we’ll head to the training base where you’ll prepare for the competition.”
When I opened my mouth to protest about my injury, he shook his head, amused. “Don’t worry. I’m quite competent in first aid. I’ll make sure you’re well taken care of.”
I nodded, feeling a strange warmth spreading through me. “Thank you, Professor Blake.”
“You’re welcome,” he replied with a kind smile.
As I lay back, I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. Diana, I thought, you finally earned your place in this competition. Don’t let anything—or anyone—distract you from your goals. Kelvin’s betrayal had stung, but it wasn’t a loss. Letting go was better than clinging to someone who couldn’t value me.
***
Later, back in my dorm, I packed my things slowly, realizing this might be the last time I’d ever be here. Even if I didn’t win the finals, there would be other opportunities ahead, other paths to pursue.
I was carefully tucking a few keepsakes into my bag when I felt a sharp tug on my arm. I turned, shocked to see Kelvin standing there, his face contorted with anger.
“Whose car was that?” he demanded, his voice a low growl. “What do you think you’re doing, going behind my back to meet some other guy?”
I pulled my arm free, narrowing my eyes. “You lost the right to question me a long time ago, Kelvin. We’re done. I’m leaving for the competition and after that… who knows?”
His expression twisted with frustration. “Diana, you can’t be serious. You know how Luna needs me—”
“Enough,” I cut him off, feeling the last bit of patience drain out of me. “You’ve made your choices clear, Kelvin. Now I’m making mine.”
Without another glance, I picked up my suitcase, feeling lighter with each step away from him. I walked out, leaving the past behind and embracing the unknown future.
