Written In The Ashes

At sixteen, I never thought I would have to learn how to survive on my own. My parents started treating me like a burden, and eventually, they told me they wanted me out. I had no choice but to start working while studying, even when it meant coming home exhausted and still having to pay for my own needs.

I stayed until I finished Grade 12. After graduation, I finally left home and decided to pursue the one thing I had always wanted: Psychology.

Getting into one of the top universities was already difficult, but somehow, I passed. I was even given a scholarship that covered half of my tuition, giving me the chance to continue my studies without completely carrying the financial burden alone.

I thought college would be my fresh start. Instead, it brought new struggles, new expectations, and someone I never expected to see again.

Cassian Theodore Verona.

My classmate and rival since Grade 11.

Now we're in the same university, sharing the same course and the same classroom. I thought I had already left everything that hurt me behind, but maybe starting over doesn't mean forgetting where you came from.

This is my story of being rejected, struggling, growing, and learning how to build the life I was once told I didn't deserve.