In the classroom

I entered the classroom quietly. I walked slowly to the back row and sat near the window. I looked around and saw many students already talking to each other. I felt nervous and alone.

I started thinking about how I could talk to my classmates. I didn’t know anyone, and it made me sad. Neshara and Hashera weren’t in my class. I wished they were with me.

I sat quietly, hoping the day would go by fast. Then someone came and asked if the seat beside me was taken. I said no. She smiled and sat down.

Her name was Lara. She was kind and friendly. We started talking, and I felt better. Soon, other classmates joined our conversation. I didn’t expect to talk to anyone on the first day, but I made my first friend.

Our teacher came and asked us to introduce ourselves. I stood up and said, “I’m Freya Janie. I’m from a small town. I’m happy to be here.” I was still nervous, but I was proud of myself.

The teacher explained what we would be doing in class this semester. It was just a simple introduction, but it made me excited and a little less scared.

When class ended, Lara looked at me and said, “You’re not alone here, Freya.”

I smiled.

After class, I went to the mall with Neshara and Hashera. It was comforting to see their faces again after being in a room full of strangers all morning. We found a small spot in the food court and sat down with iced drinks.

“So,” I said, “how was your first day?”

Neshara rolled her eyes and sighed. “Honestly? I didn’t talk to anyone. I just sat there and waited for the bell to ring.”

Hashera laughed and added, “Same here. I’m not in the mood to make new friends yet.”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Wow. That’s funny because I actually talked to someone today.”

Both of them looked at me, surprised.

“Seriously?” Neshara asked, raising an eyebrow. “You made a friend already?”

“Yeah,” I said, smiling. “Her name is Lara. She sat beside me and started a conversation. She was really nice.”

Neshara chuckled and leaned back in her seat. “Look at you, Miss Independent. You’re already doing city girl things.”

I laughed again, feeling proud but also a little shy. “I didn’t plan it. It just happened.”

“You’re braver than us,” Neshara said, smiling. “I’m still stuck in my hometown mood.”

We kept talking and laughing about our first day, sharing stories and small moments. For a little while, it felt just like old times.

Then I glanced at the time on my phone and gasped. “Oh no—I need to go! I have a curfew.”

“Already?” Hashera said, surprised.

“Yeah,” I replied, grabbing my bag. “My uncle’s strict, and my parents still check in every night even if they’re not here. I promised I’d be home before dark.”

“Go before they think you got lost in the city,” Neshara joked.

I rushed out, waving goodbye to them. As I walked toward the jeepney stop, I felt a warm happiness in my chest. I had faced my fears, made a new friend, and still had Neshara and Hashera close by.

It wasn’t a perfect day—but it was a good beginning.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***