Maia

14

Word count: 1552

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MAIA'S POV

I vividly recall the details marked on the map as I slowly navigated to the nurse's office, leaving my books and bag behind in the classroom.

With each step, I gently wipe the tears away with the palm of my hand, trying to take deep breaths in an effort to calm myself before I finally reach the office.

The deserted halls offer a moment of peace. Alone in the quiet corridors, I find a sense of relief, finally able to draw in a deep, soothing breath.

As I reach the door, I can feel the slight dampness on my palms as I grip the cold metal doorknob and push it open. Inside, a middle-aged woman sits at a tidy desk, her fingers tapping away on the keyboard of her computer. The soft hum of the machine fills the room. She looks up, her eyes meeting mine as the door creaks open. A small, welcoming smile forms on her lips as I take a step closer into the room.

I feel an overwhelming sense of anxiety as I stand here. Maybe I should gather my courage and return to class. I know my Māmā and Jacob would be furious if I interrupted them. Maybe my brothers would feel the same way too.

Alessandro made it clear that he has great expectations for my education. It's only my first day, and I already feel emotional.

The lady clears her throat discreetly, her eyes trying to catch my attention. With a warm and gentle tone, she addresses me, "Hello, dear. How can I be of assistance to you?"

As I attempted to reciprocate the smile but I decided against it. "I've got a headache and don't feel very well," I murmured softly. Leaning on my left foot and crossing my arms, I anxiously chewed on my inner cheek, a habit that I seem to do quite often.

"Okay, honey. Why don't you follow me into the sick bay, and I'll just ask you a few questions as you lay down," she replied, slowly standing from her seat. She made her way around the desk and towards a connecting door.

I followed her nervously as we entered the room. She gestured for me to take a seat, and I obliged, feeling a mix of dread and relief. She sat down on a swivelling chair and positioned herself in front of me, her demeanour attentive and focused. In her hand, she held a worn notebook and a pen, ready to write.

As she looked at me, she gently inquired, "What's your name?" I nervously mumbled my name, and she quickly noted it down. After that, she politely asked for my parents' contact details.

I awkwardly twisted my hands together, feeling the rough texture of the dirt underneath my nails. As I looked down, I mustered the courage to speak, "My Māmā passed away when I was young, and I don't know my father."

As I looked up, I noticed her giving me a sympathetic look. "I'm sorry to hear that, honey. Do you happen to know the name or contact number of your guardian?"

I tilt my head slowly from side to side, a frown creasing my forehead. "I only know my brother's name," I mumble, my voice barely above a whisper. "It's Alessandro." I pause, my mind drawing a blank as I struggle to remember his last name.

As she nodded, she took a moment to jot down a note. "I'll just give him a call and then you can rest in sick bay for a bit. I'll keep an eye on you for a little while to see how you're doing. Let me know if anything changes, okay?" She said, offering me a small but reassuring smile.

I nodded in agreement as she walked away, the sound of her footsteps fading into the distance. Soon after, I heard soft mumbles coming from the other room, a distant chatter.

As I lay down, I felt a sharp, intense pain shooting through my lower back from a formed bruise. With a wince, I closed my eyes tightly and prayed for the pain to ease away, hoping for relief.-