Chapter 444: Elias Mercer Suggested Unexpectedly

"Want to go for a run together?" Elias Mercer suggested unexpectedly.

Clara Whitmore's eyes lit up. "Sure."

They each went home to change into workout clothes.

As night fell, streetlights flickered on one by one.

Clara kept pace with Elias during the first lap.

By the second lap, her breathing grew labored.

Midway through the third lap, she gasped, "Professor... I can't... keep going..."

Elias stopped immediately. "Are you okay?"

Her cheeks were flushed, damp strands of hair clinging to her forehead. "Just overheated."

He took the tissue she'd been using to dab her sweat. "Let's walk then."

Clara nodded sheepishly.

They strolled leisurely along the campus path.

Passing a convenience store, Elias bought two water bottles. He twisted the cap open before handing one to her.

"Thank you, Professor."

Rounding the academic building, they neared the basketball courts.

A stray ball suddenly hurtled toward Clara.

Elias reacted instantly—yanking her behind him while catching the ball one-handed.

"Nice reflexes, man!" Players on the court whistled appreciatively.

In athletic wear, the professor looked unexpectedly youthful.

"We're short a player. Wanna join?" someone called.

Elias glanced at Clara.

She understood. "Go ahead, Professor. I'll watch."

It surprised her that the usually stern academic played basketball.

Wait—

Why was he seeking her permission?

On the court, Elias blocked two shots consecutively upon entering.

"Holy shit! We've got a ringer!"

"Which department are you from, bro? You're insane!"

Elias smirked. "Care to find out?"

What followed was his personal showcase.

Three-pointers, drives, slam dunks—all executed with fluid precision.

Clara watched, mesmerized, clapping and cheering despite herself.

After twenty minutes, their opponents waved white flags.

"Enough! We surrender!"

"Have mercy, man!"

Only then did Elias stop, tossing the ball back.

"Hey, let's exchange contacts? We should play again."

"Which school are you in? Never seen you around before."

As Elias scanned someone's QR code, a voice piped up: "Is that your girlfriend on the bleachers?"

He looked up—directly into Clara's beaming smile.