The situation felt worse than secondhand embarrassment; it was as if I was rejected the moment I stepped foot inside.
"Yes… sir."
I mumbled, before sliding the door behind me. The whole experience was a pitiful, worse than any minor social faux pas I could have imagined. I was literally told that not only I was late, but my presence was an inconvenience.
I reluctantly began my search for the classroom without a plague. This task should be pretty straightforward, find the room that doesn't have a plague hanging and make it my temporary home. Still, it felt odd. A classroom without a plague? That's practically like being assigned to an unused classroom with dusty chairs.
Am I being led to a space so neglected that even the janitors had forgotten about it? That seemed a bit too extreme, even for a joke. If the worst-case scenario unfolds and I find myself in an unused, barely functional room… alone, then my luck better turn around soon. I can't forever keep up with these misfortunes.
Not even a minute and I already spotted the classroom without a plague. I stopped in my tracks immediately. This was it, the moment of truth. Behind this door lay the unknown, the final piece in the puzzle of my first day at Chuo High School. Whatever awaited me in this room would set the tone for my entire school life, my future career, and even wellbeing.
I took a quick breath, silently praying for a stroke of luck. The weight of my anticipation was palpable, a heavy anchor of anxiety that plummeted deep down in my chest. With a final, resolute push, I slid the door open once more.
As the doors slid open, I was greeted by an unexpected sight with a classroom that defied all of my preconceptions. The room was pristine, spotless, and practically new. At the back were a few old school lockers, standing neatly against the wall. In the front, two desks and two chairs were arranged together with military precision, clearly set aside for the students that were put to this room. The blackboard, bore the words "Temporary Class" in basic, white chalk. The windows were wide open, allowing a gentle breeze to drift in. It was a welcome surprise completely contrary to the dusty, forgotten room I half-expected to find.
I guess the janitors didn't forget about this room after all. It's actually in better shape I could ever hope for. I owe them a big one, that's for sure. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the unsung heroes of everyday life.
I set my bag down beside the desk on the left, carefully pulling out the chair and easing myself on into it. It was far more comfortable than I had predicted. The chair's cushioning was surprisingly plush, and the smooth surface of the desk was well-maintained.
This school was turning out to be far beyond my expectations. If I were to rate it, it would possibly be the best I've encountered in my seventeen years of existence. I found myself at loss for words, as I continue to appreciate the quality.
I pulled out a small novel from my bag, the one I had been reading the night before. The chapters I left off were eagerly waiting for me, huh? I flipped the book open, a sense of peace washed me over. It was perfect to start the day, a small slice of solitude amidst the whirlwind of new experiences.
Minutes slipped by in quiet contemplation when the sudden sound of the back door sliding open startled me. I nearly toppled over, but managed to catch myself in time, narrowly avoiding another potential embarrassment. I turned around to see who ruined my tranquility.
I'm totally busted. A student has entered, her presence immediately drew my attention. She wore the same uniform as everyone else, indicating she was likely around my age. But it wasn't just her uniform that made her stood out; it was her appearance.
She was undeniably striking. Her black hair was styled into a sleek short ponytail that would make guys drool over. I couldn't help but try to guess who is this person? Is she also new here? Or perhaps maybe she's already a student here ages ago. Still, her beauty is undeniable.