Chapter 3

I didn’t want to pry into her private life by asking who she was referring to as “him,” so I decided to change the subject. 

“Thank you, Miss Charlotte. I was wondering if we could discuss my fees and accommodation for the semester.” 

She nodded, gesturing for me to follow her back into her office. As we walked, I couldn’t help but feel like I was in the presence of a powerful and intimidating woman. But I was determined to make a good impression and secure my place at the university. As we walked towards her office, I tried to focus on the meeting ahead. My mind was buzzing with questions, but I didn’t want to come across as too eager or pushy. I knew that Miss Charlotte was a powerful and intimidating woman, and I needed to tread carefully. When we reached her office, she gestured for me to take a seat in front of her desk. I sat down, feeling nervous and unsure of what to expect. 

“Let’s discuss your fees and accommodation for the semester,” she said, her tone businesslike.

As Miss Charlotte and I began the discussion about my fees and accommodation for the semester, I felt a growing sense of anxiety. I knew that I would struggle to afford the tuition fee, and I had no idea where I would live. As a matter of fact, the only thing I had in my name were the clothes given to me by the foundation. I couldn’t even afford to get myself a cellphone. But fortunately, Miss Charlotte had some good news. 

“I’m pleased to inform you that you met the criteria for being awarded the scholarship, Marco,” she said with a smile. “As a result, you only need to pay half of your tuition fee this year.”

I felt a wave of relief wash over me. This was incredible news, and I couldn’t believe my luck. 

“Thank you so much, Miss Charlotte,” I said, feeling grateful. However, my relief was short-lived. 

Miss Charlotte continued, “But you’ll still need to get a part-time job in order to pay the balance and support yourself. You have no sponsor and no penny to your name, so this will be your responsibility.” 

I nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. It was a tough pill to swallow, but I was willing to do whatever it took to achieve my dreams. Miss Charlotte then added, “Don’t worry about your accommodation. You’ll be staying in the hostel, which we’ll cover with your scholarship.”

I was overjoyed at this news. At least I had a place to live, and that was one less thing to worry about. I thanked Miss Charlotte again for her generosity and support. 

As I left Miss Charlotte’s office, feeling grateful for the opportunity to study and support myself, she called me back for one last piece of advice. 

“Marco, I have one more thing to tell you,” she said, looking me straight in the eye. “Stay out of trouble, and don’t get involved in the drama of the rich kids. They are almost untouchable because their parents are the major sponsors of the institution. You don’t want to mess with them.” 

I nodded, understanding the gravity of her warning. The last thing I wanted was to get involved with the wrong crowd and jeopardize my future.

“Thank you for your advice, Miss Charlotte,” I said sincerely. “I’ll make sure to keep my head down and focus on my studies.” She smiled at me, patting me on the shoulder. 

“Good luck, Marco. I believe in you.” With those parting words, I left her office, feeling more determined than ever to succeed in this new chapter of my life.

As I left Miss Charlotte’s office, I couldn’t help but glance down at my old wristwatch. I still had some time before my first class, and I wanted to take a quick look at my new home for the semester. I grabbed my duffel bag and headed towards the direction she had pointed out earlier.

Navigating the university proved to be more challenging than I anticipated, and soon enough, I found myself lost for the second time today. Just when I thought I was about to give up, a friendly voice called out to me. 

“Yo, you look lost. Need some help?” the voice said, and I turned to see a tall, friendly-looking guy with a warm smile on his face. 

“Uh, yeah, man, I’m trying to find my hostel,” I said, feeling grateful for the help. 

“No problem, I’m heading there too. What’s your room number?” he asked.

“Room 13,” I replied.

“Cool, we’re roommates then!” he said, extending his hand. “I’m Levi Jackson.”

I shook his hand, feeling relieved and grateful for his help. As we made our way to our hostel, we chatted and got to know each other better. I couldn’t believe my luck. Not only did I have a place to stay, but I also had a new friend to navigate this new adventure with.

As I walked into the hostel room, I couldn’t help but be amazed by how spacious and well-furnished it was. It was far better than the cramped room I had stayed in during my time at the foundation. I quickly unpacked my bags, taking a moment to admire the view from the large window overlooking the campus. But I soon realized that I had to hurry to get to my classes. Glancing at my old watch, I saw that it was already 9:55 AM.

I grabbed my bag and headed towards the door, but before I could step out, Levi called out to me. “Hey Marco, wait up!” he said, rushing towards me with a folded paper in his hand. “Here, take this map. It’ll help you navigate around the campus so you don’t get lost again.” 

I thanked him and took the map, feeling grateful for his kindness. With that, I hurried out of the room, eager to make it to my classes on time.