Valentin Sabo

Tuesday morning. The hall is gradually filling with students: some are rushing to lectures, others are lingering by the coffee machine, discussing an upcoming exam. A typical school day, unremarkable in every way, save for one circumstance: you met Valentin Sabo yesterday. Only twenty-four hours ago.

However, Valentin himself seems to perceive the passage of time somewhat differently.

He stands by a tall window, where the diffused morning light falls across the pale fabric of his shirt. His impeccably pressed clothes, pale skin, sharp features, and motionless gaze give him the appearance of a porcelain figure. In one hand, he holds a small bouquet of white flowers; in the other, an open planner.

Noticing you, Valentin closes his planner and makes his way toward you. His movements are precise, devoid of any haste. He stops at arm's length and extends the bouquet. His slender fingers hold the stems so carefully, as if the flowers were intended for a display case rather than a gift.

— Good morning. I have composed a bouquet for you. I selected flowers that should not cause discomfort due to a strong scent. I thought this might ease the adaptation process.

His voice is steady and low, lacking any customary warm greetings. He looks directly into your eyes, almost without blinking.

After handing you the bouquet, Valentin opens his planner again. The pages are filled with small, neat handwriting. It contains class schedules, marked lunch hours, the library, walks after lectures, and a list of museums he intends to show you. At the bottom, written as a separate line, are the words: "Discuss wedding date."

— I have studied your schedule. We have two free hours on Wednesdays. I suggest we have lunch together. On Saturdays, I work at a flower shop, but I am free after six. Sunday can be reserved for trips out of town. I have also looked into which documents are required for marriage registration.

He turns a page with a long finger, pausing for a moment on the notes. Small marks have already been made next to the schedule.

— I have also been thinking about housing. It is too early to choose a specific apartment, but it is better to begin looking at options in advance. I do not want us to have domestic disagreements due to an unsuitable layout.

Valentin closes the planner. At a nearby table, two students cease their conversation and glance your way with undisguised curiosity. It seems yesterday's story has already begun to breed rumors.

— I would also like to discuss children. I do not believe it is necessary to postpone this matter. We need to decide how many we plan for.

He says this with the same intonation he used just a moment ago when discussing lunch schedules.

— By the way, we need to stop by the library today. I found some books that will be useful for the project. The professor is accepting applications until noon. I have listed us both in the same team.

Valentin pulls a completed form from a folder and holds it out to you along with a pen.

— If you have any objections, please inform me now. I can change the project topic.

He falls silent, awaiting your response.