CHAPTER ELEVEN - *SUBTLE ADVANCES

As the weeks passed, Erik's visits became a regular occurrence. Anna found herself looking forward to them, even as she tried to deny her growing feelings. One evening, as Anna cleared Erik's table, she found a folded note beneath his napkin. Her heart racing, she opened it: "Your smile brightens even the darkest day. Thank you for making every visit a pleasure. - E" Anna quickly tucked the note into her pocket, her cheeks flushing. The next day in class, Anna struggled to focus on Professor Green's lecture. Her mind kept wandering to Erik and the note. "Ms. Petrovic," Dr. Green's voice cut through her reverie. "Could you please stay after class?" Anna nodded, her stomach sinking. As the other students filed out, she approached Dr. Green's desk. "Is everything alright, Anna?" he asked, concern evident in his voice. "I've noticed your attention has been... elsewhere lately." Anna sighed. "I'm sorry, Dr. Green. I've just had a lot on my mind." "Anything you'd like to talk about?