First, Take Your Clothes Off

“The stress I feel isn't actually that serious. Compared to other friends struggling with family problems, you could say it's trivial.”

Seo-a's usual haughty, sharp-tempered demeanor was nowhere to be seen. She wore the serious, earnest expression of a female university student.

“Actually… As student council president of the Marriage Academy, I feel stressed every day by the pressure to set an example for everyone.”

Her voice was calm, but a repressed weariness showed through.

“As student council president, you must have all the university students' expectations resting on your shoulders.”

I responded as though I understood what she meant. I didn't know much about it, but being student council president probably wasn't easy.

“That's right. That's why I always have to be perfect.”

She clasped her hands tightly in her lap. Her fingers had gone slightly pale, reflecting the pressure she felt.

“My grades, my attitude during practicals, even the smallest thing I say. Everyone is watching me. So sometimes… I feel like I can't breathe.”

Seo-a let out a quiet sigh. She looked fragile and exhausted, nothing like the sharp-eyed woman who'd glared at me...