Chapter 4 Chapter 4

I reached into my pocket, took out a cigarette, and lit it before I made the decision to go to the pub and become intoxicated. Recent events have completely derailed my life. What is the point of studying now? No one will go on stage with me anyway. No one will clap for me either. No one will be happy that I have finished my degree. Graduating is not on my list now.

I looked at the screen on my mobile device, hoping that Sybill's name would pop out, but even at this time, he still did not feel the need to contact me. What is the real reason why he suddenly disappeared? Has he forgotten me as well as his promise? Our first anniversary is around the corner.

After having one last drag before putting the cigarette out for good, I flagged down a cab and traveled to a nearby bar. What time is it? One in the afternoon? It looks like I would have a long drink.

I went into the pub, which was bustling with activity despite the fact that it was just afternoon. The majority of people are dancing along with the lights in the air. Others are casually talking with their companions while laughing. While I was alone. Are there any of them like me who drink to forget their problems for a while?

"What can I have for you, Miss?"

As soon as I sat down at the bar counter, the bartender immediately asked what I wanted. Tequila will do. I will just drink that until I pass out.

I looked around. I'm not used to such places. This is something that Professor Sybill taught me when we were here celebrating his birthday together, and now, what in the world was I thinking to choose to go here when all I will remember is him? Such a bad idea.

I sighed as the memories of me and Professor Sybill came back to my mind. Even all the ones we've been together with. I missed him so much. How awful it was for me that he vanished out of nowhere like a bubble, and I was left sitting here like an idiot, not sure if he would come back. I couldn't even find it in myself to stop hoping. I feel that he will come back, that he will stop by my room again at some point during the night, but he has never shown up since then. I hope it's easy to forget him, but I don't think I have the right to do that either. I'm still hoping. What if he was merely holding off to go to me? What if he has a valid excuse for not being able to come to see me? What if he's just waiting for me to graduate?

I suppressed a yawn and took another swig of the tequila I was drinking before closing my eyes. I'm making an effort to clear out the mess in my head, but it just keeps getting worse. It's gotten to the point where I have no idea what time it is. It seems like I've been at this bar for a very long time already, drinking. Even my hearing is deteriorating due to the loud music in the environment as well as the loudness of the crying in my heart.

"Sir, what time is it?" I asked the bartender.

"It's five in the afternoon."

My lips curved. Why does it take so long? I thought it was already late. Will I be sad for a long time?

I shook my head as I attempted to stand up after I had paid for my drinks. I tried to go away from the counter, but my head was spinning, and everything looked like it was moving in front of my eyes. Wait, is there an earthquake going on here?

I grasped my head and forced myself to mend myself. However, what can I expect after spending that much time drinking? Is it four hours? It's very likely that I'm going to experience some severe vertigo. I really have no hope.

I simply decided to take a break and relax for a little while by sitting on the couch in the corner of the bar. I closed my eyes and focused on my breathing for a few seconds before suddenly becoming aware of someone's hand on my lap, caressing my thighs. When I opened my eyes, I was startled to find a man grinning at me. He was standing directly beside me while stroking various areas of my body at random. Indiscriminately. I shot him a death glare and made a futile attempt to take his hand away, but he swiftly replaced it.

"What the fuck?" I asked as I slapped him. It took him by surprise, and just as he was going to touch me once more, someone else grabbed my hand. Someone pushed his way in front of me in order to battle over the perverted guy. All I could see was his broad back.

"Get your hands off of her," he told the man who had touched me.

I let out a sigh. If I had the strength to fight, I would, but I'm fortunate that this other man is taking care of it for me.

I noticed that the other man appeared anxious and promptly extended an apology to me before he left. I couldn't help but frown. That man walks away so fast. Was he scared of this man in front of me? Why? Who is this?

When I turned my head to gaze at the man who had helped me, I abruptly felt lightheaded.

"Hey there, are you okay?" I heard him ask in his deep voice. I felt his warm and rough hand as he supported me. He held my elbow.

I was ready to glance up at his face when a light suddenly appeared in my field of vision, preventing me from doing so. I grabbed his necktie, and the next thing I remembered, I was unconscious.