In the whirlwind of the past few days, everyone's lives seemed to revolve around their own set of responsibilities. Agatha immersed herself in her duties as principal, juggling schedules and events. Elizabeth kept up with the household chores, always moving from one task to the next, keeping the home lively and welcoming. Mallory was buried in her studies, preparing for exams that seemed never-ending, while Stella, overwhelmed with her own coursework, had decided to quit her part-time job. With her schedule packed, she hadn't even found a moment to meet Simon, something that nagged at her every now and then.
That day, however, a small break in the routine brought some excitement. Their senior English professor had taken the day off, and as a result, both the seniors and juniors were merged into one class. It was a rare opportunity for students from different years to interact, bringing a buzz of curiosity and whispers into the room.
Stella glanced around, catching sight of unfamiliar faces among her classmates. "Looks like today might be a little different," she murmured to Mallory, who gave her a subtle nod, equally curious.
Mallory, always observant, raised an eyebrow. "I wonder if they'll switch up the lesson or just let us fend for ourselves."
Stella smiled. "With Professor Summers gone, I bet it'll be a little of both. This could be fun... or chaos."
As Simon walked into the classroom, Stella's attention immediately locked onto him. He looked the same as always—tall, composed, exuding that aura of quiet intensity that drew her to him. But there was something different today, something that she couldn't quite identify. His gaze seemed distant, colder somehow, as if he was somewhere else entirely.
Stella's brow furrowed, trying to decipher the subtle shift in his demeanor. He didn't acknowledge her with his usual nod or even glance her way, and his movements were more restrained, almost tense. She leaned toward Mallory, whispering, "Do you notice anything… off about Simon?"
Mallory glanced over casually and shrugged. "Looks like his usual brooding self to me. Why? Do you think he's upset?"
"I don't know," Stella murmured, still watching him. "There's just… something."
Simon took his seat near the back of the room, his posture rigid, and his eyes fixed on a spot on the desk in front of him, avoiding any direct contact with anyone around him. As the class went on, he didn't speak up, didn't raise his hand, didn't interact with the students nearby. Usually, even in his silence, there was a calm energy about him, a subtle but warm presence. Today, that warmth was replaced by something colder, almost guarded.
Stella found herself stealing glances at him, trying to understand what could have changed. Was it something personal? Something about his family or his life outside of college? She couldn't shake the feeling that the Simon she knew was hidden behind a wall, one she wasn't sure she could—or should—try to break down.
Ms. Simmons entered the room with a warm smile, her eyes scanning the class. "Hello, students. I hope you're all having a good day. Since Professor Summers is on leave, I'll be taking over for him today." She paused, noting the slightly restless energy in the room. "But I know none of you were expecting a lecture, so let's try something a little different—how about a debate? Now, I'll need some topic ideas, so give me your best suggestions."
The students began murmuring excitedly, throwing out ideas like "technology in education," "future careers," and even "superstitions." But after a lively back-and-forth, they settled on a topic that sparked an even stronger reaction: dating.
"Alright then!" Ms. Simmons clapped her hands together. "If you're in favor of dating, head over to my right. If you're against dating, stand to my left."
As the room shifted, Stella and Simon confidently moved to one side in favor of dating, while Mallory, with a quiet determination, walked to the opposite side, standing firm against it. The class buzzed with a mix of excitement and curiosity as everyone settled into their positions.
Professor Simmons smiled as she glanced at both sides. "Well, it looks like we have an interesting lineup," she said, her tone laced with enthusiasm. "Let's see who can make the stronger case!"
As the debate began, Professor Simmons addressed the class. "Alright, let's hear from the pro-dating side first. Stella, would you like to start?"
Stella stood up, her voice steady and sure. "I think dating is essential for personal growth. It helps you learn about yourself, what you want in a partner, and how to communicate with someone in a relationship. Dating is a journey, and even if it doesn't work out, you come out of it as a stronger person."
Ronnie, sitting next to her, nodded. "And it's fun! Life's too short to not experience love, connection, and even heartbreak. I mean, every relationship, good or bad, teaches you something about yourself."
Across the room, Mallory raised an eyebrow, her skepticism evident. "But what about all the time and energy wasted on something that might not even last? Dating is just a distraction from focusing on things that matter—like your education, your career, and your own well-being. Not everyone needs a relationship to be fulfilled."
Lily chimed in, agreeing with Mallory. "Exactly. You can get all that self-growth through friendships, family, and your own experiences. Why do people need to date just to 'find themselves'? It feels like a societal expectation more than a necessity."
Carl leaned forward, countering the point. "Sure, you can grow on your own, but relationships challenge you in ways that friendships or career goals don't. It's about finding that one person who sees you at your worst and still sticks by your side. That's rare, and it's worth pursuing."
Blake shook his head. "But that's the problem. People romanticize the idea of 'the one.' They get lost in relationships that take them off course. Think about how many people sacrifice their own dreams and ambitions because they're busy chasing someone else's idea of happiness."
Rachel, on the pro-dating side, shot back. "Not everyone loses themselves in dating, though. A healthy relationship can be a support system, not a setback. When two people grow together, it's not about compromise, but collaboration. The right relationship can make you better, not weaker."
Roman joined in, challenging her. "But you're relying on someone else for your happiness. What if it doesn't work out? People get too emotionally invested and end up heartbroken, distracted, and often even more confused about who they are."
Stella crossed her arms, her expression cool but passionate. "Risk is part of life. Whether it's your career, friendships, or romance, nothing worth having is without risk. You have to put yourself out there. And dating isn't just about finding 'the one'; it's about the memories you make and the experiences you share along the way."
Mallory, with a steady gaze, looked over at Simon and Stella. "But how much risk is too much? For some people, dating can be a dangerous distraction. And in a world where we should be learning to rely on ourselves, dating just encourages dependency."
Stella shrugged, undeterred. "Or maybe it encourages vulnerability and trust, Mallory. Relationships teach you how to let people in, which is important, too. You can't go through life guarded forever."
Mallory glanced away for a moment, her expression softened but still resolute. "Maybe. But I'd rather rely on my own strength than be hurt by someone else's weakness."
As the debate continued, new angles emerged, and the discussion grew even more intense.
Mallory raised her hand, her gaze serious. "One of the biggest issues with dating is trust. People constantly get hurt because they trust too easily. Cheating, lying, betrayal—these aren't uncommon. Trusting someone with your heart is a huge risk, and let's be real, people aren't always as loyal as they claim to be."
Luca nodded, backing her up. "Exactly! People enter relationships with all sorts of baggage. Trust issues from past relationships, insecurities… and when things go south, that pain just builds. Why would you knowingly put yourself in a situation where someone else could potentially hurt you like that?"
Stella, seated on the pro-dating side, responded calmly, "But isn't that what life is about? Taking chances? Yes, cheating and betrayal happen, but that doesn't mean every relationship will end that way. Trust issues can be worked through with the right partner, someone who is understanding and patient."
Roman smirked, folding his arms. "And what are the odds of finding that 'right person'? Most people don't have the patience or maturity to handle someone else's baggage. A lot of relationships end because people can't or won't deal with their partner's issues. It's easier to walk away."
Rachel, defending the pro-dating side, shook her head. "True, not everyone is perfect. But if you're never willing to trust, you miss out on the chance of finding someone amazing. People do make mistakes, but that's part of learning how to love and forgive."
Blake leaned forward, his tone skeptical. "But what about when trust is broken? Cheating isn't just a mistake—it's a choice. You can't ignore that in most relationships, there's a constant fear that the other person could just leave or cheat. It causes so much emotional damage."
Simon, unfazed, countered. "Yes, there's a risk of betrayal, but life's about taking risks. If you approach every relationship with the assumption it'll end badly, you're already setting yourself up for failure. Trust can be rebuilt if both people are committed to working through it."
Mallory pressed her point. "And what if it can't? People often ignore red flags because they're 'in love.' They end up tolerating things they never should. It's better to be alone and whole than in a relationship that leaves you broken."
Ronnie jumped in from the pro-dating side. "But that's assuming every relationship will hurt you. Many people find love that's worth the risk. You can't find real connection without opening up and letting yourself be vulnerable."
Roman shook his head dismissively. "But vulnerability doesn't have to come from dating. Friends, family—there are other relationships that give you connection without all the drama and risk of betrayal. Romantic relationships are overrated."
Stella leaned forward, her expression softening. "Sure, friends and family matter, but romantic relationships add a different dimension. They challenge you to be more open, more trusting, and yes, sometimes it ends badly. But sometimes, it's worth it. The right person can change your life for the better."
As the debate neared its end, Professor Simmons smiled, sensing that it was time for one final point to close it out. She looked over at Simon, who'd been quiet for a moment, watching the discussions unfold with an almost detached intensity.
Clearing his throat, Simon stood and looked around the room, his gaze steady, yet intense. "I know there are risks in dating—trust issues, heartbreak, even betrayal. But those things exist everywhere, not just in relationships." He paused, letting the weight of his words settle over the room. "If we live our lives hiding from those possibilities, we miss out on the chance to experience the kind of connection that makes us stronger, wiser—even more resilient."
He looked directly at Mallory, whose gaze remained unwavering. "Love, dating, relationships—they're not about finding someone who's perfect or guarantees no pain. They're about finding someone who's worth taking that chance for." He paused. "If we're afraid to risk it, we might as well lock our hearts away and miss everything love can teach us."
The room fell into a deep silence, his words sinking in. Even some of Mallory's supporters exchanged glances, a few nodding slightly as if reconsidering. A girl from the anti-dating side murmured, "That's... actually a good point."
Professor Simmons broke the silence with a nod, looking impressed. "Well, I think Simon's just made a compelling case for taking chances," she said with a smile. "I think the pro-dating side takes the win for today."
Mallory stayed silent, her gaze steady and her jaw set, though a glimmer of frustration darkened her eyes. Still, she kept her composure, responding with a tight nod as Simon's side accepted the win.