Episode 3

After the professor wrapped up the introductions, he began diving into the syllabus. He went over the course objectives, the grading system, and the expectations for the semester. His voice was steady and monotone, which only made it harder to stay focused. I stole a glance at Jenna, who was busily jotting down notes. How could she be so motivated already?

I flipped through the syllabus halfheartedly, my mind wandering to my next class. I wondered if it would be just as dry as this one or if it might hold something more interesting. My thoughts were interrupted when the professor handed out an assignment sheet.

"Your first task is a reflective essay on how literature has impacted your life. It’s due next week," he announced. "This will set the tone for the semester, so take it seriously."

A groan rippled through the classroom, but the professor didn’t seem fazed. He continued explaining the details, but my focus wavered. Writing about literature wasn’t the worst thing in the world, but I couldn’t shake the unease that had been following me all morning.

When the class finally ended, Jenna was practically glowing. "That wasn’t so bad, was it?" she asked as we walked out of the room.

I shrugged. "I guess. Reflective essays aren’t my thing, though."

She laughed, giving me a playful nudge. "You’re overthinking it, as usual."

As we walked to our next classes, Jenna suddenly stopped in her tracks. "Wait, this is where we split," she said, pointing to a hallway that veered off to the left.

I blinked, realizing we weren’t in the same class for the next subject. "Oh, right," I muttered.

"Good luck! Don’t get lost," she teased before disappearing into the crowd.

I sighed and checked my schedule. My next class was "Exploring Poetry in Modern Contexts" in room 312. With a deep breath, I navigated the labyrinthine hallways, trying to shake off the nerves that crept up again.

When I finally found the room, I hesitated at the door. It was already half-full, students chatting quietly among themselves. I scanned the room, choosing a seat near the back where I could observe without drawing too much attention.

As I settled into my seat, a mix of anxiety and intrigue filled my mind. This class was different than my previous one, and as I glanced around the room, the mix of students was noticeably different, too.

I glanced around the classroom, taking in the eclectic mix of students. There were a few familiar faces from my previous classes, but mostly, it was a sea of strangers.

...----------------...

Finally, the last class of the day ended—or more accurately, never started. The professor hadn’t shown up, leaving everyone confused until a staff member from the admin office arrived to dismiss us.

I felt equal parts relieved and annoyed. Sure, getting out early was nice, but skipping the very first class? Not exactly the best first impression.

As I stepped out of the building, the sun had dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the campus. Jenna was already waiting for me near the entrance.

"Hey, what happened to your class?" Jenna asked as I approached, her brow furrowed in concern. "You're out early."

I shrugged, stuffing my hands into my pockets. "The professor never showed up. Apparently."

"Seriously? First day, and they’re already absent?" Jenna said, shaking her head. "That’s such a waste. Who’s your professor, anyway?"

"Dr. Celeste Alarcon," I replied, leaning against the building’s cool wall.

We waited for a few minutes until we saw Lila approaching from the other side of the quad. She waved at us with her usual bright smile.

"Hey, guys! Sorry I’m late," Lila called out, jogging the last few steps. "How was your first day back?"

Jenna immediately launched into a recap of her classes, her energy as high as ever. I listened quietly, the weight of the day finally starting to lift as I realized I was in good company.

Even if the first day wasn’t perfect, at least I had my friends to make it a little better.

:))

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