The college trip to the hill station buzzed with excitement, the crisp mountain air carrying laughter and the distant thrill of the amusement park below. Nestled in the foothills, the park sprawled with colorful rides twisting against the evergreen backdrop. Harlan, ever the organized professor, gathered the group in the lobby of their rustic lodge. 'Everyone, make pairs,' he announced, scanning the students. 'We'll spend the whole day at the park—safety in numbers.' Giggling clusters formed quickly: friends linking arms, a few shy crushes pairing off. But Emily stood alone, fiddling with her sundress hem, cheeks pink as eyes turned her way.

'Emily's left out?' Harlan said, feigning surprise, though his gaze locked on her with predatory intent. 'Looks like she'll be my partner.' Nods rippled through the group—no objections, just envious glances at the 'lucky' student stuck with the prof. Emily's pulse raced; she knew this was no accident.