There comes a moment in life when we discover that deep inside us lives a killer. Not like in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre — that noise still gives me nightmares — but more like I Spit on Your Grave, where the guilty finally pay for their sins. As I stared at Lorena, replaying her earlier chat with Matt, I imagined every possible way to hide her body after squeezing that thin little neck.— But relax, Matt can be trusted — Lorena reassured me, after revealing that I should make the phrase "keep it a secret" crystal clear in our conversations. — He even said he'd help track down your hot guy, since he basically knows everyone on campus.Someone give me painkillers and let me die!— Of course! It'd be an honor to help the Weird Girl find her hot mystery man — I gathered what was left of my strength to turn and face that playful grin staring back at me. — Honestly, it's hard to find those guys at freshman parties — he added.— She said he had that something, but it was hard to know much about him because he was wearing a jacket — Lorena explained in a suggestive tone, while his gaze flicked from me to her — Poor thing!— So sad! — he put a hand on his chest, pretending to be moved, then turned to me. — Don't worry, sweetie. I'll find the hottie who kissed you last night. And by the way, helping you with this can count toward my debt. If I'm not mistaken, I still owe you one.Lorena was frowning when suddenly Professor Zé Paulo walked past, looking like he had just woken up wearing jeans.— Matheus — the professor called out suddenly —, I left some books in my office. Can you grab them for me, please? — he asked, his arms full of folders.I remembered Matt was his teaching assistant, which only made me more embarrassed knowing I'd spend the whole morning in the same room as him.Matt nodded and excused himself, promising to meet us in class. Unfortunately! At that moment, all I wanted was to bury my head in a hole until lunchtime.— You okay, Aza? — Lorena asked as we walked in silence toward the classroom.I stopped and gave her a serious look. I had so much to say, but deep down I knew it wasn't her fault. By some cruel twist of fate, Lorena's friend was the same guy I had kissed the night before. In movies, secondhand embarrassment made me cover my eyes. In real life, everything seemed to move in slow motion.I decided to face the truth like a mature, sensible girl. Like Olive at the end of Easy A — even though I hadn't lied about anything.— It was him, Lorena — I blurted out.She looked at me confused, so I pointed discreetly outside. Her eyes went wide, and then she burst out laughing. It couldn't get any worse. I started walking toward the classroom while Lorena tried to catch her breath to say something. I wasn't sure I wanted her to, but of course she did.— Wait, Matt is your hot guy? — she asked, sitting beside me with an astonished look.The room was large, shaped like a half-moon, probably designed to help students interact. Up front stood the professor's desk, a whiteboard, and a projector hanging from the ceiling. To the right, a massive window stayed shut thanks to the air conditioning, keeping the temperature pleasantly cool.— I don't know! We met on the first day, which wasn't the best welcome of my life. But yesterday, when you disappeared, he came over, started talking, and offered to walk me home.— Wow!— By the way, how do you even know him? — I asked, trying to sound casual. The way Lorena spoke, it was like she had known Matt for years.She smirked and leaned in to share the secret.— He's in his final semester, and he's an incredible photographer. You know my dad works on campus, right? During one of his shifts, I stumbled across Matt's exhibit — it got huge, caught the attention of critics. Everyone here knows Matt, even the professors, who all bet on his talent once he graduates — she said proudly. — I always say I want to be like him: humble, friendly, no drama, and hot as hell.We both laughed at her comment.— But I didn't know he went to those kinds of parties — she added, surprised —, or that he hooked up with girls from campus. He's always so focused. — She put a hand on my shoulder. — Azinha, you hit the jackpot!My heart skipped. So he wasn't a typical player. Did he maybe have a possessive ex? Or some snobby family? I giggled at my own theories.— What's running through that little head? — Lorena asked, but the professor cut her off.
Professor José Paulo had black hair and wore a beige suit over a dress shirt. He wrote in big letters, HISTORY OF ART, but most of the morning was taken up with student introductions. Matt walked in as they started, was introduced, and immediately praised.— Class, I want you to meet my student, Matheus Salarolli — the professor announced. — He transferred into the…— Fifth semester — Matt corrected quietly.— Right, fifth semester. This term, he'll be your teaching assistant. Any questions about grades, papers, or missed classes, you can come to him. — He gestured toward Matt, who stood straight with crossed arms and a friendly expression.Matt introduced himself:— First of all, good morning! — he flashed that mischievous grin. — You've probably seen me around since the first day, but let me introduce myself properly. I'm Matheus, finishing my last semester in Arts. I studied at another university before transferring to Ghosteisd, and honestly, it was a no-brainer. This place is a dream, it gives you all the tools you need to achieve your goals. All it takes is dedication and grabbing the opportunities that show up.He answered the class's questions about projects, internships, and his artistic journey, always switching smoothly between formal and relaxed. Some of the girls gave him lingering looks, but he didn't seem to notice. I couldn't take my eyes off his lips, though, which smiled so easily.During the break, thankfully, he didn't join us. I bought a juice and chatted with Lorena and some girls. Lorena always had something to say, which made blending in way easier.Right before class ended, I got a text from Rafael saying he was waiting in line at the cafeteria. I packed my bag and left with Lorena, but the professor called me back.— Azaleia? — his voice was calm, almost melodious.— Yes, professor! — I sat beside his desk. For a second, I thought I caught a spark in his eyes, something that made me uncomfortable. I leaned in, but quickly brushed off the odd feeling, convincing myself I was imagining things.— The department showed me some of the drawings you submitted with your application, and I was really impressed by your artistic perspective — he said warmly. There was something about the way he leaned slightly closer, as if he wanted to close the distance, though still within what could seem normal. The strong scent of his cologne nearly made me hold my breath, but I didn't want to seem rude. — We have a group working with illustration in your style, and we'll be opening spots for new members. Since you're a freshman, I strongly encourage you to apply. This will enrich your learning, plus count for credits and a symbolic stipend.— I'd love that, professor! — I lit up, trying to ignore the feeling that his gaze lingered a little too long. — Where do I sign up?— Wednesday, room 24, second floor. I'll be expecting you there — he replied, drumming his fingers on the desk in some rhythm I couldn't quite place.As I walked out, I was startled to see Matt leaning against the wall. He shot a serious look at the professor, following him with his eyes until he disappeared down the hall. There was a brief silence. His smile only came after, too quickly, as if he had just remembered to put it back on.— Were you waiting for me? — I asked, pulling his attention.This time, he smirked for real, as cocky as ever.— So, I'm hot, huh? — he teased, recalling Lorena's words, making my cheeks burn.— That was Lorena! I'd never… — I began, but he cut me off with a laugh. — You're not that hot, okay? Besides being annoying, you…He folded his arms and raised an eyebrow, mocking.I sighed, irritated, and went straight to the point:— Fine, you're hot! Happy?— Already knew it! — he admitted, not the least bit modest. — It's tough being hot all the time.— Oh really?— Yep. And let me tell you, if you want to pass Zé Paulo's class, you'll need to pay attention. I know I'm hot, but try to keep your eyes off me — he said, making me laugh.— Thanks for the tip, Mr. Brilliant Student!— Anytime, naughty girl! — he shot back, giving me a mischievous look.I glanced down, unsure of what to say, until he leaned in way too close. I lifted my eyes and found that smug grin again, but his eyes… his eyes were dead serious as he lowered them to mine. His lips crashed against mine, fierce, making my legs weak and my stomach flip. The world went silent, leaving only the heat of his mouth and the frantic beat of my heart. I cupped his face, giving in to that dizzying sensation, forgetting even that Lorena was waiting for me to grab lunch.— Okay! I can tell I'm the third wheel here — my friend coughed, pulling us back —, but I've already smoked two cigarettes, and before my stomach eats itself, can we go get lunch? — she pointed toward the exit.I glanced at Matt, who still had his hand on my waist, and asked if he wanted to join us. I wanted Rafa to meet him so badly. As I'd guessed, he agreed, making me want to skip with joy. Now all I needed was Rafa's approval for Matt to officially become the supposed hero of my story.