Sunset Of Hope [ UNDER REVISION ]

CHAPTER 2

**KIM POV**

While I was in the middle of class, deep in thought about what happened last night, the door suddenly swung open. the school president walked in, exuding confidence and authority.

"Ms. Santos, the dean called you." my teacher said, who was finishing up a conversation with the president. I stood up, feeling a mix of curiosity and anxiety, as I followed the student who had been instructed to call me. What could the dean possibly want with me?

As we walked down the hall, the president asked, "What does the dean need from you ba, miss?" I wanted to answer, but I was still too bewildered to respond.

"Sige, dito na lang ako, may klase pa kasi ako." sabi ni Ms. President. nagawa ko pang ngumiti at tumango sa kaniya.

"Sige." I replied softly, then knocked on the door of the dean's office.

"Come in." I heard a voice from inside. I stepped in and asked, "Bakit po ninyo ako pinatawag, dean?" I gave him a small smile, but the weight of the moment was heavy in the air.

"I called you because I need to tell you something that could help with your scholarship." he said, catching my full attention. The mention of my scholarship always ignited a spark of hope within me.

"Ano po yun?" I asked eagerly, my heart racing. I needed this scholarship more than anything. The dean smiled and gestured for me to take a seat.

"I need you to guide Mr. Hernandez with his reports and studies." he said, and I felt my heart drop. Hernandez? The school bully? The one who's not used to smile?

"Ahm... Sir, s-sigurado ba kayo?" utal na saad ko, unable to hide my disbelief. I glanced at Hernandez the one who's driving without looking at the road, who was leaning against the wall with his usual serious demeanor.

"I'm serious, Ms. Santos," he replied firmly. "Tatanggapin mo ba ito? This is for your scholarship." He looked at Hernandez, who was still as stoic as ever.

"T-tatanggapin ko po, dean, for my scholarship." I said, forcing a smile despite my reservations. The dean’s expression brightened at my response.

"Good. Next day ka na mag-uumpisa." I sighed as I left the office, feeling a mix of dread and determination. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Hernandez looking at me. Was that a glimmer of interest in his gaze, or was it just my imagination?

It was break time, but I didn’t go to the cafeteria. Instead, I headed to the library, my usual sanctuary during lunch breaks. As I settled down with a book, I felt my stomach growl. I licked my lips, but I couldn’t afford the expensive food at school.

"Ms. Santos." called the librarian, interrupting my thoughts. I approached her, grateful for her kindness.

"Yes, ma'am?" I asked.

"Kumain ka na ba?" she inquired, glancing at the books piled on her desk.

"Ahm... Hindi pa po. Ano po ba iyon?" I replied, a bit shy.

"Ipapadala ko sana ito sa'yo sa last row ng table." malumanay na sabi nito, indicating a tray filled with snacks.

"Akin na po, ako na ang magdadala," I insisted. She looked at me with a warm smile and nodded.

"Kumain ka pagkatapos nito," she reminded me, and I simply nodded in response. I appreciated her concern and it made me feel less alone.

After I delivered the snacks, I made my way to the garden to eat. The cafeteria was a minefield; I could already picture the bullies gathering, just waiting for me to walk in. So I chose the quiet solitude of the garden instead.