It's been almost three years since Jay was a senior in high school. Going to a simple community college, he still held his dream close to my heart: being an English Teacher. Whenever he thought of the idea, a certain "special" someone came to mind.
He was Jay's English teacher, probably the best teacher he ever had. Although he wasn't the best worker out there, Mr. Moretti knew he had a great heart. Every word he spoke seemed as if it was injected into Jay, his opinions held above all else. Jay strived to be like him, and he still does.
"April 21st, Wednesday
When high school ended, I didn't hear much of him, besides the rare Facebook comment or such. Afterwards, I suppressed my feelings for him, with my constant schoolwork and friends. However, two years being over soon, I need to start pursuing my career. And what better way to do that is to get first-hand experience?
-Jay"
Still having his email in his contacts, Jay clicks open a new one and starts writing.
"Hey, Mr. Moretti. I hope you're doing well. I'm looking into my major a bit more, and it'd be great to have first hand experience. Watching over the class, grading papers, you name it. Your wish is my command!
-Your former student, Jay Lombardi"
His heart pounds as he hits the Send button, due to the bit of quirkiness he included near the end of the message.
To his surprise, he gets an email the next morning.
"Thanks for your email, Jay. I'd be glad to have you come in and observe the class, and help me with schoolwork. Why don't you come to my class tomorrow morning? We can determine the length of the internship as well.
-Mr. Moretti"
Jay couldn't contain himself, he was utterly overjoyed. That night, it took him hours to sleep. Hanging out with Mr. M again, it was pure bliss. However, all of these excited feelings brought back an overabundance of past feelings—of love.
The next morning, he made no hesitation to get up early and get showered. As he got dressed, and did his hair up, Jay felt the adrenaline rush through him, just like his 16-year-old self in his junior year. That was when his feelings of love truly flourished for Mr. M. As he inspected himself in the mirror, he thought of how he looked in the past. Just about a full beard, instead of a light peach fuzz on the chin and lip area. More defined muscles and weight, instead of his forced, hard-working metabolism. He felt confident. He also thought of other details, like how he was always taller than the "shorty" that his teacher was. Jay quickly got into the car and rode to the school grounds.
Trying to stay hidden in the familiar halls from teachers that might notice him, he quickly speed-walks to his destination. Stopping at the door, he takes a moment to catch his breath, and fix his collar a bit. Peeking through the door a bit, he noticed no one is inside. With a light knock, he hears a voice respond. "Come in."
Opening the door, he walks in slowly and lifts his head. All he sees is a shocked figure, eyes a bit widened. With a slight chuckle, Jay walks in a bit more.
"Hello, Mr. Moretti." He says, outstretching his hand.
"Welcome back, Mr. Lombardi." He mutters, shaking my hand. We both smile for a second, and an awkward air fills the room.
