Chapter 9: The FalloutThan knew it couldn't last forever—the secret meetings, the stolen kisses, the heated moments behind closed doors. But he hadn't expected it to unravel so quickly.It started with a slip. They had stayed late in the library again, lost in each other rather than their project. When they finally pulled apart, disheveled and breathless, they didn't notice the janitor staring at them from the doorway. The older man's eyes widened before he quickly disappeared, but the damage was done.By the next morning, whispers echoed through the halls. Than's stomach churned as he overheard snippets of conversations."Did you hear?""Than and Kit? No way.""They were together in the library."Than clenched his fists, heart racing. Kit, however, seemed completely unfazed, leaning casually against his locker with that infuriating smirk."Relax," Kit said when Than stormed up to him. "People love gossip. It'll blow over.""This isn't a joke," Than hissed. "What if the professors hear about it?"Kit's expression softened. "Then we deal with it. Together."The word 'together' made Than's chest tighten. He wanted to believe Kit, but doubt gnawed at him.Later that day, their advisor called them into his office. Than's heart pounded as he sat rigidly in the chair, Kit relaxed beside him."I've heard some rumors," the advisor began, steepling his fingers. "I don't care about your personal lives, but I care about this project. Don't let distractions get in the way."Than exhaled shakily. Kit grinned. "Got it, sir. No distractions."As they left the office, Than shot Kit a glare. "How can you be so calm?"Kit shrugged. "Because I know something you don't.""And what's that?"Kit leaned in, voice low. "You're not ready to let me go."Than opened his mouth to retort but found no words. Because deep down, he knew Kit was right.