One afternoon, as Sarah walked alone towards the library, a group of female students—Suzzy, Janna, Calla, and others—were chatting animatedly nearby. Their conversation, filled with giggles and whispers, took a sharp turn when the topic shifted to Sarah.
Claire (loudly): "Did you hear? Sarah's working as a bartender now."
Brey (smirking): "A bartender? Seriously? I can't picture her mixing drinks."
Krizza (sarcastically): "Guess she's not as quiet and innocent as she seems."
Sarah's steps faltered as she overheard their conversation. Her heart pounded in her chest, a mix of anger and shame bubbling up inside her. She quickened her pace, hoping to escape their cruel remarks, but the words followed her like a shadow.
Claire (mocking): "I wonder if she's any good at it. Maybe we should go see for ourselves."
The group erupted into laughter, their voices echoing down the hallway. Sarah felt her cheeks burn with humiliation. She had taken the bartending job out of sheer necessity, hoping to make ends meet and support her family. The last thing she needed was to be the subject of their gossip.
Sarah felt her cheeks burn with humiliation as she heard the group's laughter echoing down the hallway. Her voice quivered slightly as she spoke, trying to maintain composure despite the embarrassment.
Sarah: "I... I didn't have a choice. It's to help my family."
The words came out softly, almost pleadingly, as she tried to convey the weight of her situation to the mocking group.
Just as she reached the library door, Lucas one of her male classmates appeared, walking towards her with a warm smile. He noticed her troubled expression and paused.
Lucas (concerned): "Hey, Sarah. You okay?"
Sarah forced a smile, trying to hide her distress. "I'm fine, Lucas. Just heading to the library."
Lucas glanced over at the group of girls, who were still whispering and casting glances in Sarah's direction. His expression hardened as he realized what was happening.
Lucas (firmly): "Ignore them. They're not worth your time."
Sarah nodded, grateful for his support. She entered the library, her resolve strengthening. Lucas's kindness reminded her that not everyone was against her. She had dreams to achieve, and a family to support, and she wouldn't let their cruel words deter her from her path.
As she settled into her usual spot in the library, Sarah opened her books, her focus sharpening. Despite the challenges and the gossip, she was determined to rise above it all, driven by the hope that one day, her hard work and sacrifices would pay off.
Sarah's determination shone through as she settled into her usual spot in the library, her books spread out before her. She whispered to herself, a quiet affirmation of her resolve.
Sarah: "Keep going. This will all be worth it someday."
Her voice carried a mix of determination and quiet confidence, a reminder to herself that despite the challenges and gossip, she was steadfast in her pursuit of a better future for her family.
Lucas, still lingering near the entrance, watched her for a moment before turning to face Claire, Brey, Krizza, and their group coming into the library too. His expression was serious, and his voice carried authority.
Lucas: "You all should be ashamed of yourselves. Gossiping about someone's life without knowing their story is just plain cruel."
Claire (defensively): "We're just talking. It's not a big deal."
YOU ARE READING
Beneath the Surface
Random"In the shadow of secrets, love still has the power to heal... Her silence hid a secret that could change everything-but love always finds its way back." At St. Claire College, Sarah's quiet determination stands in stark contrast to her overwhelming...
