Pure Kisses

*Steve's Point of View*

Vina is a beautiful girl. Even at 16 years old, when I first met her, she already exuded an elegance that set her apart from her peers. From our first encounter, I fell in love with Vina.

The age difference between Vina and me is seven years. I have loved music since childhood, so I focused on my craft and earned my master's degree at a young age—just 25. Being a musician is quite challenging; there are many talented people out there. To navigate this competitive world, I decided to open music lessons, and Vina became my first student.

Every time she entered the room, I couldn't help but admire her enthusiasm for music. Her dedication is inspiring, rekindling my passion every time I teach her. She approaches music with a sincerity that is rarely found in someone her age, making each lesson a joy.

Yet, behind this happiness, I couldn't shake the growing feelings I had for her. I know there's a significant age gap, and often, I wonder if I should keep these feelings to myself. Still, I find myself drawn to her laughter, her gaze, and the way she connects with music. It's not just about her talent; it's about who she is—a cheerful soul beautifully intertwined with melodies and dreams.

At the same time, I also feel the weight she carries. Vina is caught in a storm of emotions and decisions about her future. I wish I could reach out to her, to lighten her burden, and assure her that whatever path she chooses, she won't be alone. But I worry about how to navigate my feelings amidst our teacher-student relationship.

Every lesson with her is a blend of joy and concern. I want to support her on her musical journey, but I also can't help wanting to be more than just her teacher. I hope she perceives the genuine friendship I offer and, perhaps in time, sees me as someone who truly cares for her—not just as a mentor, but as someone who wants to be there for her in all aspects of her life.

As I stand there, watching her play and pour her heart into the music, I can only hope she finds her way through the confusion and uncertainty. I want to be part of that journey, even if it means holding back my deeper feelings for a while. For Vina, I would do anything to ensure she feels supported and understood, even if it means staying in the background while she finds her own way forward.

Steve continued to ponder his feelings for Vina. Every time he watched her learn and struggle with every note she played, the admiration often culminated in profound doubt. "Is it permissible to feel this way?" he asked himself. "Is it acceptable for a teacher to have feelings for their student? Especially when that student is only 16?" He couldn't ignore the fact that Vina was his first student. Perhaps that was what deepened his feelings and made them difficult to comprehend.

Steve felt a heavy burden in his heart. He began to question the morality of his feelings. "Is it fair for me to feel this way? Am I just trapped in an illusion because Vina is the first?" Each question that arose in his mind left him with a growing sense of guilt.

He tried to let those thoughts go, convincing himself that he was just a teacher who should focus on the education and development of his students. However, the more he tried to distance himself, the more intensely his longing for Vina haunted his thoughts and feelings. "Is it okay," he wondered, "for an adult to like a girl like her? She's full of passion, talent, and eager to chase her musical dreams. But what if she doesn't feel the same? What if my feelings disrupt our learning process?"

Whenever he saw Vina smile or persevere in her practice, the guilt would creep back in. He felt as if his feelings became a barrier between them. In his heart, Steve prayed that he could find a way to support Vina without letting his feelings create distance.

With all the doubts weighing on his soul, Steve was determined to maintain professionalism, striving to neutralize his feelings while continuing to give his best as a teacher. Yet, his heart couldn't fully extinguish the growing feeling within him. In silence, he hoped that one day, everything would become clear—whether as friends, mentors, or something more.

After a year of learning with Vina, much had changed. Vina was now 17, and Steve felt as if there was an ever-stronger bond forming between them. Although doubts and guilt still lingered in his mind, Vina's presence in his life had become an essential part of his daily routine.

Steve began to engage in subtle skinship, carefully and gradually. He would touch Vina's fingers as he demonstrated techniques on the piano, feeling the warmth and softness of her hands as they practiced together. These small moments gave Steve a sense of closeness that was hard to explain, like a delicate thread connecting two souls.

During lessons, Steve couldn't help but smile when Vina managed to play a challenging section of a song. One day, he encouraged her to do a high five. Vina looked momentarily surprised, then burst into cheerful laughter. That smile of hers—radiating happiness—became a precious moment for Steve. That little high five felt like a gateway to a deeper closeness.

He often gazed at Vina with affection, hoping his look could convey deeper feelings without words. In their glances, there was warmth and understanding that was challenging to describe. Moments like this were his favorites—sharing simple yet meaningful times together.

Often, during breaks, Steve would gently take Vina's hand and offer her encouragement. Feeling the warmth of her skin, Steve longed for these moments even more. He tried to keep his touch soft and non-intrusive, but deep down, he prayed that Vina felt the same way.

Yet, behind all this happiness, the feeling of guilt never fully disappeared. Steve worried that the skinship could be misinterpreted or make Vina uncomfortable. He valued her as an individual, more than just a student. However, the emotional urge to get closer became increasingly challenging to control.

He started to wonder if there was a path ahead that could change their relationship. Did Vina feel the same tension between them? Or was it all just Steve's imagination? Amid his burning doubts, he chose to continue moving forward, hoping that someday their feelings would find a way to unite without jeopardizing the bond they'd built.

As time passed and Steve and Vina grew closer, Steve felt increasingly confident about elevating the intimacy in their relationship. Each learning session became an opportunity for him to create a relaxed and warm atmosphere, even amidst the occasionally frustrating pressure of piano practice.

One day, when Vina successfully played a piece exceptionally well, Steve could no longer hold back. With an enthusiastic smile, he said, "If you can play this part well, I'll give you a kiss on the cheek!" His tone was cheeky, almost teasing Vina to showcase her skills.

Vina looked surprised for a moment and then replied, "What? That's not a fair deal!" trying to appear serious, although a smile began to break through her cheerful expression.

"Well, I was just joking," Steve continued with a laugh, trying to appear relaxed, even though his heart raced. He insisted that his offer wasn't entirely serious, hoping to ease any tension his words might have caused.

However, Vina returned to the piano and played the piece perfectly. Steve was mesmerized by her ability and couldn't help but continue, "Alright, you did it! So… the kiss promise still stands." This time, he gave her a more intense look, as if challenging Vina to react.

Vina laughed, blushing while still wanting to maintain a stance of refusal. "Steve, that shouldn't—" but her smile suggested that she was actually enjoying this playful exchange.

Seeing Vina smile made Steve feel bolder. He leaned in a little, and when Vina seemed ready, he gently kissed her cheek. That small moment felt like a lightning bolt between them, with Steve's heartbeat quickening. Though it seemed like a lighthearted act, something deeper was growing between them—a bond that was hard to ignore.

Steve then looked at Vina's reaction. Not only was she surprised, but there was also a spark of joy in her eyes. "I told you, that was just a joke," she said again, trying to redirect her focus and ease the tension once more.

Yet in his heart, Steve knew there was something more than just a joke at play. Curiosity, a slowly growing intimacy, and a mutual understanding made this situation increasingly complex. He continued to play his part, hoping this wouldn't lead to anything wrong, but every moment spent with Vina only strengthened his feelings—feelings that couldn't be ignored or denied.

As time went on, Steve realized that if these feelings continued to grow, they would need to explore new boundaries in their relationship. He began to wonder—what did he truly want from all of this?

Every time Vina successfully played a piece, Steve felt his spirit soar. The kiss on the cheek he offered seemed like a recognition of her effort and dedication. He was proud of Vina's progress, and those kisses became a ritual that bound them together.

On one hand, the kisses felt lighthearted and playful, but on the other hand, Steve sensed an increasing magnetism between them. Each time his lips brushed against Vina's cheek, a warm sensation coursed through him, as if reminding him that their relationship exceeded that of mere teacher-student.

One day, when Vina managed to play a particularly challenging section, she beamed with happiness. Almost instinctively, she challenged him with her gaze. "So, how many of these kisses can I avoid?" she asked, laughing softly.

Steve chuckled and leaned in to give her a longer kiss than usual. "No one can evade this reward, Vina. Every bit of your progress is something worth celebrating!"

He noticed the expression on Vina's face—surprise at first, followed by honor. There was a glint of joy in her eyes, and Steve realized he was starting to enjoy these moments more than he had anticipated. The attraction between them was growing, and he began to wonder if Vina felt the same.

Yet, beneath the joy lay a creeping doubt. Was this all just a game? Was he being too bold in treating Vina this way, or were they truly on the right path? Steve didn't want to take a misstep. He wished to preserve this beautiful moment without confusion or misunderstanding.

Each kiss on Vina's cheek only reaffirmed his feelings. He tried not to take the intimacy lightly, even though he knew it could potentially alter the dynamics of their relationship. Whenever they laughed and teased each other, there was a deepening understanding.

Steve knew he would have to talk to Vina about his feelings someday. But for now, he wanted to savor each moment—every kiss, every laugh, and every smile. Those moments meant the world to him, and he wanted to continue celebrating this journey with Vina, all while being careful not to cross any boundaries.

He watched Vina go back to her focus on the piano, enjoying the lovely sounds that flowed. In his heart, Steve prayed that this wasn't merely a phase, but the beginning of something beautiful between them. He hoped that when the time came, they could share more than just kisses on the cheek.