As days passed, each one was filled with purpose and direction.
It was as if I had suddenly discovered my life's compass – to ace the university entrance exams and become a better version of myself, then ask if we could be together.
In truth, my academic foundation was weak. To get into university, I studied tirelessly. I didn't have time to ponder whether I was stupid or unsuited for studying.
I immersed myself in endless practice questions. Each night, my mind was consumed with errors, leaving no room to think of Nathaniel.
Initially, I went home weekly. Closer to the exams, Nathaniel found my commute exhausting and time-consuming.
Instead, he visited me in town every week. Sometimes with Uncle Fat, sometimes alone.
Always claiming he had business in the town and dropped by to see me. How much business could there be?
Deep down, I knew he came for me, maybe he did like me, but I didn't mention it.
During exam week, he said he had business in town for a week. I knew he just wanted to be in the same city, supporting me through the exams. "Call me anytime, I'm always available. Don't worry, we'll go mountain climbing after exams. Tell me if you need money, I'll transfer it."
... I sensed his anxiety, greater than mine.
He stayed outside while I was at school, but knowing we were in the same place brought comfort.
On the night exams ended, he celebrated with a cake and balloons in our new rental.
"Woah, looks amazing." When I saw him arranging balloons, I was surprised. Him, a typical guy, would do such a delicate work
"Uncle Fat and the others did it, I told them not to bother."
"It's pretty, I'm happy."
"As long as you are,we are happy about it." He then, mysteriously, fetched a box, "Congratulations on completing your exams."
"What is it?"
A gift? I grew excited.
"Open it."
I carefully unwrapped it, revealing a fluffy creature with red eyes.
"A rabbit!" I exclaimed.
"A man's rabbit had babies, insisted I take one."
"Really? It's adorable."
"I am glad you like it." His stern face softened into a smile.
"I love it!"
Thrilled, I hugged Nathaniel, planting a kiss on his cheek.
"Felicity, you..."
"Thank you, Uncle."
"As a girl, aren't you supposed to be reserved?"
"Just a thank-you kiss, Uncle. It's not big deal" I held the rabbit. "Said someone forced it on you, you're a grown man, they wouldn't give it unless you asked."
"Uncle, you're funny, why contradict yourself? Isn't that right, little rabbit?"
"Enough now." Nathaniel chuckled helplessly.
"You said after exams, so what's your answer now?" I looked at him intently.
"When did you get such a good memory?"
"Don't dodge the question."
He stood, poured a beer, calming himself.
"Are you regretting, want to see my results first?" I pressed.
"I don't care how well you did, grades don't matter."
"Then what matters ?"
Changing houses for me, controlling his mates for me, altering habits for me...if this wasn't liking, I wouldn't believe it.
"I thought a year would mature your childish thoughts," he said.
My heart sank.
He still found me childish?
"And?"
"No further." He paused, downed the beer, "I'm hooked."
He tossed the glass, lifted me onto the table, and kissed me.
"Uncle?"
My head buzzed.
"Don't call me that, makes me feel a sense of guilt." He tangled his fingers in my hair, deepening the kiss.
Finally, he released me, calming us both.
But how could I calm down, my heart pounding at my throat.
Dizzy, I stared at him blankly.
"Staring at me for more?"
"Mm-hmm." I nodded, possessed.
He cursed under his breath, "Little enchantress, I'll deal with you when you're older."
He carried me to the bathroom, ran water to fill the bathtub, told me to freshen up and sleep.
"What about you?"
"Me?" He bent, "I'll catch some air, cooling off myself."
"Okay."
I seemed to understand something, too timid to meet his gaze.
