Code 131

Part 1

I'm Maha Pasha, an 18-years-and-five-months-old self-proclaimed software engineer. Yeah, I know what you're thinking: "Where's the degree?" Well, it's still in the works, but who needs a formal education when you've got skills, am I right? I mean, let's be honest — I've been coding since I was twelve, and I can practically speak in binary at this point. But before you judge me, let me set the record straight: I'm more of a mischievous hacker than a cyber-criminal mastermind. Just ask my mom and dad about their mysteriously rearranged online accounts. Uhm leave it.

Speaking of my mom, she's got this thing about me talking too much. "You're a girl, Maha, tone it down or no one will want to marry you!" she warns, with that classic parental concern. Well, joke's on her because I have plans that are way bigger than just being someone's Mrs. I mean, have you seen the tech industry? I'm aiming for the stars, not a kitchen apron. But just when I thought I was free to chase my dreams, she drops the bombshell: "Pack your bags, kiddo — Cambridge's calling!" Yep, apparently, my ticket to higher education involves a one-way trip across the pond. Thanks, Mom, for the surprise wake-up call.

Now, don't get me wrong, Mom's not exactly a villain in my story — more like a benevolent dictator with a soft spot for my silly antics. Like that time I decided to experiment with a bit of harmless hacking with my friends... and promptly got caught. Oops, sorry, not sorry! The look on my dad's face when I had to explain why the Wi-Fi was mysteriously down for two hours was priceless. I mean, it was all in good fun, right? Just a little tech-savvy humor!

But as much as I love pushing boundaries and bending rules, I know deep down that this next chapter in Cambridge is going to be a wild ride. Between balancing my quirky personality and the serious business of becoming a tech whiz, I'm ready to take on whatever challenges come my way. So buckle up, world — Maha Pasha is about to make her mark!

Off to Cambridge I went, brimming with dreams of hacking my way out of the plans everyone had laid out for me. But alas, my luck turned out to be about as reliable as a screen door on a submarine. There I was, contemplating life's mysteries — like why every girl is expected to adore dolls. I mean, seriously, who needs plastic pals when you've got real-life friends who can join you on your adventures, right?

But enough about dolls and the absurd expectations placed on girls. Let's fast forward to the real adventure: Cambridge, baby! As I prepared for this new chapter, I couldn't help but wonder if I'd end up in the headlines for any rogue hacking incidents at Harvard University. If you ever heard about something like that, just remember — it probably wasn't me. Probably.

I was minding my own business at the airport, excitement buzzing through me as I looked forward to my journey ahead, when suddenly, out of nowhere, someone handed me a baby along with a frantic plea for help. Sure, I said yes with a smile as fake as a three-dollar bill, fully believing I could handle whatever chaos might ensue. But before I knew it, the baby began wailing like a banshee, and panic set in.

In that moment, as I awkwardly cradled the tiny human, I couldn't help but question my life choices. Note to self: helping others isn't always a walk in the park. I had imagined arriving in Cambridge as an exciting leap toward independence and self-discovery, not an impromptu babysitting gig. It was a far cry from the freedom I had envisioned, and the overwhelming sound of the baby's cries made me rethink my entire plan.

But in the midst of chaos, I realized this unexpected turn of events was just another chapter in my story, one filled with challenges that would shape me in ways I couldn't yet imagine.

As I settled into my seat on the plane, I was hit with the sudden realization that I was actually on board, embarking on this wild journey. Heaven? Nope, just Cambridge-bound, My heart raced with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Here's hoping I'd land some decent teachers this time around, because let's be real — my track record with educators wasn't exactly stellar. I still remembered that one teacher who accused me of looking like a cheater at the tender age of seven. Good times, right? But hey, at least Mom always had my back; she wasn't afraid to give those teachers a piece of her mind whenever I faced unjust criticism.

And guess what? I found out I wouldn't have a roommate! Must be my lucky day. I could already envision my newfound freedom, the thrill of having my own space. But of course, Dad wasn't about to let his girl suffer alone in a big city; he was already pestering me with messages to remind me to be careful and stay safe. Life in Cambridge? Well, let's just say it sounded about as exciting as watching paint dry.

As I thought about the stress of tomorrow's welcome party, I couldn't help but smirk. Who knew hacking could be so tempting? *wink* But then reality hit me hard. I had to face the daunting prospect of mingling with new people, and the thought alone made my stomach twist in knots.

Oh boy, this dress I had chosen felt like wearing a cactus! How do people manage to rock these so-called "fashion statements"? I took a deep breath, reminding myself to stay calm. No embarrassing moments tonight, Maha. Just be a good girl and resist the urge to start a riot.

"No drinks for me, thanks", I said to waiter as he offered me drink. I had no intention of risking getting spiked or losing control in a room full of strangers. And seriously, where was the food? This party was shaping up to be like a bad dance-and-drink marathon, with nothing substantial to nibble on.

The idea of the partner parade made me roll my eyes. As a single gal, I knew I'd just be there for the free snacks. I could already picture myself lurking by the refreshment table, stuffing my face while pretending to enjoy the festivities. Who needed a partner when you had a buffet?

Finally, the party was over! I could hardly contain my relief as I stepped outside, the cool evening air a welcome contrast to the stuffy atmosphere of the venue. Cue celebratory dance. Just as I was about to break into my own little victory jig, my phone buzzed, interrupting my moment of triumph. It was Dad calling.

"Hey, Dad! How's it hanging?" I answered, a grin spreading across my face.

"Hey, kiddo! Your mom and I are living the dream," he said dramatically, as if he were announcing a grand adventure. I could almost picture him striking a pose, arms outstretched, while Mom rolled her eyes in the background. Ah, parents — always ready to put on a show.

Then Mom chimed in, her voice warm and familiar. "So, how was the welcome bash?"

"Oh, it was spectacular! I mean, it was a party... alright," I fibbed, carefully choosing my words. In reality, it had been a whirlwind of awkward introductions and small talk that left me feeling more drained than excited. But I didn't want to worry them. They were already anxious about me starting this new chapter in my life, and I didn't want to add fuel to their fire.

Mom seemed hopeful, as always. "Just remember, Maha, I want you to hit the books hard. This is your chance to really shine!"

Her enthusiasm was infectious, and despite my earlier doubts about the night, I felt a flicker of motivation ignite within me. I knew she meant well, and the pressure of her expectations pushed me to dig deeper into my studies. I could almost hear her reminding me to stay focused, to not let distractions get in the way of my goals.

As we chatted about the small details of the party, I felt a sense of comfort wash over me. No matter how overwhelming this new adventure felt, I had the unwavering support of my family behind me. And perhaps, just maybe, I would find a way to navigate this maze of academia and social events without losing myself along the way.
                                                                              :::

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