Chapter 12

When Professor Glen entered Cassie was still in Peter’s arms both were looking into each other eyes. The whole class was pin-drop silent. Professor Glen cleared his throat to let Cassie and Peter know that he had come. Peter and Cassie both got out of that eye-locking trance and ran toward their seats.

Professor Glen began in his steady voice. “We're going to have a discussion today regarding 'Romeo and Juliet,' one of Shakespeare's most well-known plays. But before we get started, let me set some guidelines to make sure this conversation is polite and productive."

He looked at everybody. "I hope everyone got notified yesterday."

The class responded together. "Yes, professor."

Professor continued. "First of all, each person has the right to hold their own viewpoint. This implies that even when we disagree, we still need to listen intently and politely. Second, if you would want to speak, kindly raise your hand. I'll put it out there for you to make sure everyone gets an opportunity to participate."

Grinning, Professor Glen took out his copy of the play. "Let's begin with a thought-provoking question. Who, in your opinion, is more to blame for Romeo and Juliet's tragedy? If you would want to express your opinions, raise your hands."

At once a forest of hands raised. "Cassie," he replied, gesturing to her, "why don't you start us off?" Professor Glen glanced about.

Cassie cleared her throat. "Thank you, Professor Glen. Though there are a lot of contributing circumstances to the tragedy, I think Friar Laurence takes a big part of the blame. He agrees to marry Romeo and Juliet in secret, gives Juliet the sleeping potion, and fails to make sure Romeo is informed of the plan, among other dubious choices. Despite their good intentions, their actions directly cause miscommunication, which ultimately results in both characters' deaths."

With a thoughtful expression on his face, Professor Glen nodded. "Interesting point, Cassie. Friar Laurence's role is certainly complex and pivotal. Who would like to respond to Cassie's argument, or offer a different perspective?"

Peter raised his hand, professor ducked his head. “Yes, Peter.”

Peter lowered his hand. “I think Romeo and Juliet themselves are responsible for their tragic end. Their reckless decisions and haste in marrying each other after knowing each other for only a short time show their immaturity. Moreover, their willingness to risk everything for their love, including their own lives, reflects a lack of consideration for the consequences of their actions.

Cassie turned to Peter. “Excuse me, their love is not merely impulsive—it's genuine and profound. Shakespeare portrays them as star-crossed lovers destined for tragedy. Their love challenges the societal norms and prejudices that separate them. The play highlights the power of love to defy expectations and create hope even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Peter responded. “I agree that their love is powerful, but it's also naive and shortsighted.”

Cassie shot up her shoulders. “While Romeo and Juliet may have made mistakes, their tragic end is not solely their fault. The feud between their families and the restrictive societal norms play significant roles in shaping their fate.”

Peter looked at Professor “For me, Romeo and Juliet's choices exacerbate the situation. They prioritize their own desires over the well-being of others, leading to a tragic chain of events. “

Professor looked at both and kept his copy on the table. “Well, I appreciate Peter and Cassie’s enthusiasm that both didn’t give any other student a chance to put forward their opinion.”

Peter and Cassie were embarrassed, and they now realized that, in their rage, they had broken set rules. The professor continued, "But I am impressed, and I have decided, why don't you two collaborate on a project and, after exchanging views, come to a mutually agreeable conclusion?"

Before they processed what the professor proposed to them a bell rang and the professor started to wrap up his things “Just let me know how much time you both need for this project.” Professor pointed at both “Make sure it won’t be more than two months.”

Peter turned to Cassie. “It’s all your fault.”

Cassie’s dropped down. “What?”

Peter responded. “Yeah, if you had shut your mouth we would not have to face this issue.”

Cassie exhaled. “If you had not given your shitty opinion…”

Peter interrupted her. “I don’t want to work with you.”

Cassie yelled. “Who said I want to work with you?”

Peter picked up his bad. “I will talk to the professor.” without waiting for Cassie’s response he marched out of the class.

Daniel stood behind Cassie. “I think you guys need to dial down your animosity.”

Cassie looked at Daniel. “Do you think it's my fault?”

Daniel looked away. “I think you both are at fault. A healthy competition is good but this is getting way out of hand.”

Cassie stood up. “I think you were my friend.”

Daniel and Cassie walked out of the class. “I am your friend and that's why I am suggesting you wake up and stop being a toxic person.”

Cassie opened her mouth but her eyes landed on Steve playing football. He was drenched in sweat but the way his hair swayed on his forehead. They swayed Cassie’s heart. When Daniel realized Cassie was taking more than necessary time to respond, he turned to her. He felt a little pinch in his heart to see Cassie drooling for Steven. “Would you stop staring at him?”

Cassie whined. “No, I can’t.”

Daniel was about to respond but they heard a loud comment from a football coach. “Where the hell is your mind Steven? Today you are playing a delicate doll.”

Cassie and Daniel both forgot their conversation and looked at Steven, he was standing in a court and asking for some time out and walked out. Daniel didn’t want it but he suggested Cassie. “I think you should go and talk to him.”

Cassie looked at Daniel. “Are you suggesting me to go to a guy and talk who had rejected to have me in his life, yesterday?”

Daniel shook his head. “I can give you suggestions but to follow them or not would be your choice.”

Cassie nodded. “I think I am going to follow this time.” and she left Daniel alone in a corridor. But this time Daniel didn’t stand alone he headed to Libaray to give tuition to Rita. Daniel had a little doubt that Rita wouldn’t be there but when he got into the library she was already sitting and eagerly waiting for him. When her eyes landed on him she smiled and waved. Daniel adjusted his glasses and walked over to her.