"The current job market is tough, and this qualification to stay in school is a rare opportunity," the tutor said with a stern look, holding his freshly brewed coffee. "Since both you and Felicity are graduating this year, it's only fair for you to compete. Whoever publishes a paper in a top journal first will earn the right to stay."
His words were sharp, but his tone was calm. He patted my shoulder, pulling me from the storm of painful memories. With a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes, he looked at me expectantly, silently asking for my agreement.
Just as I opened my mouth to respond, he cut me off. "Since neither of you object, we’ll move forward with this plan. To ensure fairness, I’ll personally oversee the process," he added, his voice firm, as though everything had already been decided.
In my previous life, the tutor had been nothing but kind to me. He guided me through my research, helped me navigate personal challenges, and treated me with the care of both a brother and a father. I never imagined that in the end, he would be the one to push me into the abyss.