Hanni's Gambit

4) Sicilian Defense (1. e4 c5)

I've always felt this need to be the best. It's like this fire inside me that never goes out. Ever since I was young, I've pushed myself harder than anyone else. I guess you could say it's a bit obsessive, but to me, it's about striving for excellence in everything I do.

In school, I have to get the highest grades, not because I want to show off, but because I have this hunger to learn and to prove myself. It's not just about being better than others; it's about being better than I was yesterday. Whether it's academics, sports, or any challenge that comes my way, I can't settle for anything less than my best.

Some people think I'm too intense, that I take things too seriously. But for me, it's about setting goals and working relentlessly until I achieve them. It's about pushing past limits and discovering what I'm truly capable of. That drive, that determination—it's what defines me and keeps me going, even when things get tough.

And I'm willing to bend the rules for my own success.

♟️🎓♣️

I stared at the bold 'B+' next to my name, feeling my jaw clench with frustration. Professor Kim's eyes were already on me.

"B+?Well done, I got a B star" Danielle chimed in as she stopped by my desk. "They're not the same," I retorted. She hummed thoughtfully. "I guess they aren't. I got a B star." she reiterated with a smile before returning to her seat.

I deserve an A.

Professor Kim's gaze lingered on me, perhaps sensing my frustration. She approached my desk with measured steps, her expression neutral yet observant. "Hanni," she began, her voice calm, "you did well. A B is a commendable grade, especially on the first exam."

I didn't meet her eyes immediately, instead focusing on the test paper in front of me. "But it's not an A," I replied tersely, unable to hide my disappointment.

"No, it's not," she agreed softly. "But it's a starting point. Your performance shows potential, and potential can always be developed."

I glanced up at her then, searching for any sign of leniency or reconsideration. "Can I retake the test?" I blurted out, hoping against hope for a second chance.

Professor Kim shook her head gently. "I'm sorry, but that wouldn't be fair to the other students. Grades are a reflection of your understanding and effort, and they need to be respected."

I clenched my fists under the desk, feeling a surge of frustration. "Respected," I echoed bitterly. "I respect effort. I respect achievement. But I don't respect settling for less than what I'm capable of."

Professor Kim studied me intently, her gaze unwavering. "And what are you capable of, Hanni?" she asked quietly.

"More than this," I replied firmly, my voice tinged with determination. "I'm capable of excellence. I'm capable of an A."

She opened her mouth to speak, but I cut her off. "I'm staying after class," I declared firmly. She sighed in response. "Do as you wish," she said dismissively, then turned and walked back to her desk. Around me, everyone was busy peer grading their papers, but my mind was singularly focused.

I reminded myself of a mantra I often repeated: sore losers are the ones who don't succeed. The B on my paper was a setback, but I was determined to turn it around. Getting that A became my sole mission, and I was prepared to do whatever it took to achieve it.

When everyone had filed out of the classroom, leaving us alone, I stood up straight. Professor Kim was leaning casually against her desk, an expectant look in her eyes.