Michael had spent days perfecting every note, every word, and every emotion behind his song. The assignment wasn't just another academic task—it felt like a personal challenge. He was used to excelling in most things, but creating a piece that felt genuine, that resonated with meaning, took him out of his comfort zone. But he was proud of the result. His song, "Whispers in the Dark," was a blend of haunting melodies and raw lyrics, the kind of song that lingered with you long after the final note faded.

Today was the day to present it to his professor. He had rehearsed the melody dozens of times, tweaking the lyrics until they told the story he wanted: a tale of love and longing between two people separated by circumstance, like the sun and moon, forever in orbit but never able to touch. It was bittersweet, full of yearning and melancholy, yet held onto hope that their love was eternal.

As Michael walked toward the professor's office, the weight of the assignment felt both exciting and nerve-wracking. The hallway was quiet, save for distant conversations and muffled sounds of students passing through. His fingers tapped the folder in his hands, his mind replaying the song's chorus. He could almost hear the piano keys beneath his fingers, the way the chords swelled at the climax, and the ache in his chest as he sang the final lines.

When he reached the door, Michael took a deep breath, adjusting his posture and putting on his most confident face. He knocked lightly before opening the door. The room was tidy, with bookshelves filled with academic texts. Sunlight poured through large windows, casting a golden glow over the space.

The professor was at their desk, busy with papers, but their gaze shifted to Michael as he walked in. He made his way toward the desk and handed over the folder containing his assignment. As he did, the silence stretched, and he couldn't help but feel familiar nerves bubbling up.

He leaned against the desk, his lips curling into a playful smirk. "Hope you're ready for your mind to be blown," he teased, his tone light and filled with confidence he didn't quite feel. "No pressure or anything, but this is going to make history. A song to remember."

Michael's heart raced, a mixture of anticipation and excitement thrumming through him. He waited for the professor to read through his concept and listen to the song later. But for now, he let the tension hang in the air, feeling almost giddy with the idea of impressing his professor—not just academically, but on a personal level.

And maybe, just maybe, a little teasing could lead to something more.