CHIHIRO | Billie Eilish

Chapter 3: Another New Beginning

Nayla's POV

I woke up with a mix of excitement and nerves churning in my stomach. Today was my first day at work as a teaching assistant, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation about what lay ahead. After a quick breakfast and a glance at the mirror to make sure I looked presentable, I grabbed my bag and headed out the door.

As I made my way to the primary school where I would be working, my mind raced with thoughts of what the day would bring. Would the students like me? Would I be able to handle the responsibilities of my new role? I took a deep breath, reminding myself to stay calm and focused.

When I arrived at the school, I was greeted by the warm smiles of my colleagues. They welcomed me with open arms, offering words of encouragement and guidance as I settled into my new role. The head teacher gave me a brief overview of my responsibilities and introduced me to the class teacher I would be assisting.

As the morning progressed, I found myself immersed in the hustle and bustle of the classroom. The students were a lively bunch, full of energy and curiosity. I did my best to assist the teacher, helping with lesson materials, answering questions, and providing support to the students as needed.

Deciding to unwind a bit before heading home, I made my way to the university library. The familiar scent of books and the quiet hum of students studying greeted me as I stepped inside. Finding a cozy corner tucked away amidst the shelves, I settled down with my laptop, intending to catch up on some reading for my classes.

As I scrolled through my notes, a familiar voice caught my attention. Glancing up, I heard a voice calling out my name.

"Nayla, hey!" I looked up to see Sarah approaching my table in the university library.

"Hey, Sarah! Fancy seeing you here," I said, welcoming her with a smile as she took a seat across from me.

"Totally! What's up?" Sarah grinned, taking a seat next to me and opening up her book.

"Not much, just survived my first day at the school. Those kids are a handful!" I chuckled, feeling relieved to have made it through the day.

"I can imagine! You're gonna be the coolest teaching assistant ever," Sarah teased.

"I hope so! Anyway, what are you working on?" I asked, gesturing to Sarah's textbook.

"Just some boring readings for my psychology class. It's killing me," Sarah groaned, flipping through the pages.

"Sounds rough. Well, if you survive the week, maybe we can grab coffee or something?" I suggested with a grin.

"Definitely! I'll need the caffeine after the lecture. Let's do it," Sarah agreed with a nod.

"Awesome! I'll text you later then," I said, pulling out my phone to exchange numbers.

"Cool, looking forward to it," Sarah replied, flashing me a smile before returning to her textbook.

I couldn't help but feel grateful for the new friendship I had found in Sarah.

As I left the library, the sky had already darkened, and the streets were bathed in the eerie glow of streetlights. I had lost track of time while preparing lesson plans and studying for my university courses, and now it was late—later than I had ever been out since moving to London. Instead of taking the Tube as usual, I decided to walk home, relishing the chance to clear my head and enjoy the quiet of the city at night.

With a stack of books and folders in my arms, I made my way down the dimly lit street. Only one pale streetlamp flickered weakly, casting long shadows that seemed to dance in the darkness. As I rounded a corner, I saw someone approaching from the opposite direction—a figure shrouded in a hoodie, their face obscured by the darkness.