ACE [hiatus]

• One •

The sound of my heels clicking against the slick floors echoed throughout the hallway.
I must be early on my first day, so the building looks close to deserted.

But the building amazes me. This school has been around for a very long time, yet their large amount of wealth ensures that they are able to be updating. From the shiny floors to the spotless display cases; this school was obviously pristine.

Scanning each door that I pass, I wait to find the sign that indicates a Teacher's Lounge. My Korean isn't the best, so I'm thankful that under the Hangul, there is a phrase illustrated in English.

I am fine with speaking the language, but reading Hangul is not one of my specialties.

"Ah, there it is." I whisper to myself, finally locating the room that I need.

Letting out a shaky breath, I grip onto the metallic door knob and turn it until it is unlatched.

Once I step inside, I notice that there is around ten other adults. I am a rather young teacher, considering that I am fresh out of school. I am sure that some of these students may even be close to my age.

I try to shut the door as quietly as possible, but a rather loud clicking sound is made. Heads snap in my direction, focusing on me.

"Annyeonghaseyo," I say with a bow.
There is a chorus of other greetings and nodding of heads.

Relief washed over me once everyone turned back to their previous conversations. I'm not sure why I thought it was a good idea to be a teacher, since I do not like being the center of attention.

A thin lady kept her light brown eyes on me, striding over. There was a smile ghosting her face-- I could tell that she is very friendly.

"Welcome," she spoke softly. "You must be the new intern."

"Yes," I confirmed. It was a huge comfort to me that she spoke in English.

"My name is Miss Ahn," she introduced.

Miss Ahn proceeded to bring me towards the other staffs. I learned each person's name, and a little bit about them. They were very welcoming, and for that I am thankful.

"Azumi Yamashita," my name was called by a deep, bellowing voice. I quickly spin around, looking to the source.

"That is me," I spoke softly.

"Ah, welcome. Are you at peace?" He speaks. It was the principle of the school.

"Yes, Mr Yeun." I speak, bowing deeply.

"I will read the announcements over the intercom, and then you will be expected to meet the students."
He exited the room, everyone remained silent until the door was completely shut.

"Azumi," one of the younger male teacher repeats. "That name is Japanese. I thought that you are from America."

"I am. But my father is Japanese," I explain, easing their curiosity. Their heads nod in realization, dismissing the subject.

Mr. Yeun's voice filled the air as it came through the speakers. I had a hard time understanding what he was saying, but I imagine it was the daily announcements as he had told me. I also heard my name, and commands to obey me.

Once this was all finished, he returned to the room so that he could lead me to the classroom that I will be teaching in for the school year.
With each step that we took, I grew more nervous.

What if they don't like me?
What if they can't understand what I am saying?

These thoughts, along with many others, occupied my brain. I really need to learn to stop doubting myself.