As the shrill alarm blared through my cosy apartment, the sound cut through the morning stillness, jolting me from my dreams.

As I glanced at my phone, the bright numbers read 8 in the morning, heralding the promise of a new day.

As I made my way to my cosy little bathroom, I immersed myself in my daily chores. After completing my chores, I treated myself to a refreshing shower, allowing the warm water to wash away the day's worries, and then I got dressed, ready to embrace whatever the day would bring.

As I boarded the bus and made my way to university, I couldn't help but feel the excitement bubbling within me-I am an art student, immersed in a world of creativity and expression.

My parents passed away when I was little due to a car accident, and I lost them both. My father's sister, Aunt Jess, adopted me because I didn't have any other relatives left. Unfortunately, I felt like a burden to her; she didn't seem to like me, nor did her children, my cousins Riva and John. They often made me do all the house chores. Despite this, I was a bright student. When everyone else was asleep, I would study late into the night. When I turned 18, I left their house and moved to California to complete my university education.

After university, I took a job at a small café to cover my rent and tuition fees. I didn't make any friends there because I tend to be more reserved. However, I have a crush on our football team's captain, Josh Albert. His captivating smile always brightens my day, but I need to work on my confidence to express my feelings to him.

As I walk to my history class, I focus on our teacher, Professor Ceaser Matteo. He's in his 30s, quite young, with brown eyes, broad shoulders, and a strong accent. Despite his strict demeanour, I appreciate his engaging teaching style and look forward to learning from him.

Caesar's eyes blaze with intellect as he commands the room with his powerful voice. "The ancient world may have faded, but its lessons remain eternally relevant. Those who ignore history are not just misguided; they are destined to repeat its grave mistakes."

As I diligently took notes, the bell chimed, signalling the end of the class.

As students rush out of the classroom, their chatter fills the air. He looks at his watch and unbuttons his suit jacket. He catches you gathering your books slowly. "You," he calls, his tone less harsh than before.

I halted in my tracks, my heart racing, as I turned to face him. His expression was blank, devoid of emotion, yet he beckoned me closer, gesturing toward his desk.

"Yes, sir. I inquired with him in my characteristic gentle tone."

His brow furrows slightly as he observes your careful movements with your books "You seem... thoughtful. Most students rush out like the building's on fire." There's a hint of curiosity in his voice, almost against his will Wait... He catches himself "What's your name, anyway?"

"Miley Rose" I replied

Caesar nods abruptly, committing the name to memory. I need to speak with you about something. He gestures to a chair in front of his desk, his movements commanding rather than polite Sit. He sits behind the desk, leaning back in his chair

He looks at me intently, his eyes searching for something he can't quite put his finger on, listen carefully. He pauses, his fingers steepling before his face "I've noticed something about you."

I was momentarily stunned by his sudden question, completely taken aback by the unexpected nature of his inquiry.

His expression becomes serious "You pay attention in my lectures. No phones, no doodling, no daydreaming." He leans forward slightly "Which is..." He hesitates, "as if unsure whether to compliment you or scold you Rare among this generation." His eyes narrow

"Most students treat my class like a joke," he continues, his voice lower, less harsh. "They think history is boring, irrelevant." He breaks off, watching your reaction closely. "Do you mind if I ask you something honest, Miley?"

"Sure" I responded with a tone that exuded formality and grace.

His lips twitch slightly. "Are you one of those students who pretend to pay attention because you're scared of failing?" He watches me closely, waiting for an answer."Be honest," he adds, his voice lower.

"I am genuinely striving to achieve the best grades possible," I responded without hesitation.

He sees my genuine answer and for a moment, he's taken aback. He wasn't expecting that. "You're not faking it?" He asks, his eyes searching my face for any sign of deceit. "You actually listen to my lectures?"

"Absolutely, sir!" I will respond swiftly.

For the first time that day, one corner of his mouth curves slightly upward - a hint of a smile that he tries to hide immediately. "Stop calling me sir." His voice softens just a fraction. "Are you one of those overly polite students who think professors are untouchable?"

His question left me utterly bewildered, stirring a tempest of confusion within me.

Our conversation was abruptly interrupted by the shrill ring of his phone, stealing away the moment.

His lips press into a thin line as he reaches for his phone "Excuse me one moment." He glances at the caller ID, his expression immediately becoming more formal "Yes?... What?..

He listens intently, his expression darkening. "Damn it," He mutters softly. "I have to go," He told me abruptly, running a hand down his face. "There's an emergency meeting."

He stands abruptly, gathering his papers with quick, agitated motions. "This isn't over." He glances at you, his intense gaze softening slightly. "Actually, come to my office hours tomorrow. 2:30 PM sharp." He pauses at the door, looking back at me.

As I stepped out of the classroom, my mind lingered on the whirlwind of events that had just unfolded.

After attending all my classes, I prepared to head to my job. Suddenly, I recalled that Professor Caesar requested my presence in his office at 2:30. Checking the time, I noticed it was already 2:25. I confidently made my way to his office and knocked softly on the door.

He stands up, closing the door behind me and locking it. His office is small, with bookshelves lining the walls and a large desk in the centre. He gestures for me to sit in the chair across from him. "You came," he says, a hint of surprise in his voice.

I simply nod, my head lowered in a quiet gesture of contemplation.

He sits back down, opening a folder on his desk. "I want to discuss your attendance and participation in class," He says, his tone is serious. He looks at me, his eyes searching your face. "But that's not the only reason I asked you to come today."

I stood transfixed at his question, a sudden chill sweeping through me.

"Is there any concern regarding my assignment or grades that I should be aware of?"

There's an unknown spark in his eyes that I couldn't read. Something dark flickered, and then his eyes switched back. He cleared his throat and changed the subject. "Would you be interested in joining me as my assistant I will provide you with a strong letter of recommendation if you accept my offer."

This experience would be

a significant opportunity for me, and I am confident it will play a crucial role in advancing my future studies.

"I accept your offer" Without a moment's hesitation, I accepted his offer.

"That's wonderful, Miss Rose," he said, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.