INTIMIDATION MELTS AWAY : When the CEO-PROFESSOR falls in love (JenLisa)

9: [ FREAKING TERRIBLY SCARY ]

THIRD PERSON POV

"How was your first day of school?" Irene asked her sister. After they reached home, Irene prepared dinner, and they had a great time before Lisa and her embarked on a movie marathon to celebrate their first day in their respective fields—the new school and the new hospital where Irene works. Although Lisa isn't a fan of movies, she's willing to accompany her sister and enjoy some cuddle time.

"It was great. I met some wonderful people, some of whom you've already met. The day was a mix of challenges and excitement, especially because of an incredibly interesting professor I encountered," Lisa answered, her gaze shifting between the TV screen and Irene.

"Those people are indeed lovely and fun to be around," Irene agreed, smiling at her sister and patting her head affectionately. "So, tell me about this intriguing professor who managed to make my baby sister feel both challenged and happy. I know you usually reserve those feelings for intriguing course subjects, not school personnel," Irene asked playfully, a hint of curiosity in her voice.

Lisa nodded, her gaze distant as if recalling the events of the day. "You're right about that. This professor is the type who initially seems intimidating, but her sternness amuses me. It's like I'm nervous when she's angry, yet utterly engrossed at the same time," Lisa explained, conveying the complex mix of emotions she experienced throughout the day.

"Really? Is it really possible to experience two contrasting feelings at the same time?" Irene asked, her expression reflecting the complexity of these emotions.

"It can happen. Why?" Lisa inquired, noticing Irene's conflicted demeanor.

Irene carefully considered her response before speaking. “Because, when we feel nervous or uneasy around someone intimidating or scary, it’s like our brain goes into survival mode. Our body releases stress hormones, which makes us ready to either face the danger or run away from it. This reaction is called ‘fight or flight’. Because of this, we get focused on keeping ourselves safe and thinking about potential risks. It can be hard for our mind to see the interesting or positive side of the intimidating person in that moment. So, experiencing both interest and nervousness when interacting with someone intimidating might seem contradictory." Irene explained while curiously observing her sister.

Lisa looked at her sister and nodded. "Yes, you're right, Irene. Because in these situations, the brain usually prioritizes safety over curiosity, making it difficult to perceive the intimidating person as interesting until the feelings of nervousness subside and a sense of safety is established..." She paused and smiled warmly. "But in my case, my brain seems to prioritize curiosity over safety, allowing me to find the intimidating person interesting even before the feelings of nervousness fully fade and a sense of safety is established," Lisa added, causing Irene to smile in response.

"Then, what aspects of this professor made you feel interested despite her being scary or intimidating?" Irene inquired, her curiosity growing as she delved deeper into the conversation, as it was the first time her sister had mentioned another person in this context.

"I'm not entirely certain... but it's the way her voice sounds chilling, her posture and gaze appear stern, yet her eyes hold a warmth that contrasts her outward coldness," Lisa said, her emotions and thoughts intertwined as she explained her feelings about the professor.

Observing her sister’s interest in someone, Irene couldn’t help but feel curious herself. Irene looked at her sister with a questioning gaze. “You know, being able to see beyond those emotions through a person’s gaze is like looking closer at it.” Irene hummed in response, unable to suppress her smile. “How can you see her that closely?” Irene asked, her teasing tone barely hidden.