You sighed as you finally finished packing your backpack for the exams, it took months of trying to convince your mom to let you go but you were determined to pass this test. Not for any special reason but you heard that it was challenging, that not many people make it. And for some reason it just made you want to go even more. Your head snapped up as you heard the boat's horn outside, signaling it was time to go. "The boat's here, I gotta go!" you yelled, sprinting downstairs almost tripping down a step. But as you reached the door, you froze.

Your mom was standing there, her brows furrowed, worry etched into her face.
You could see the fear in her eyes-the fear of watching you leave, not knowing if you'd come home. Guilt washed over you, and your hand slipped off the doorknob. For a moment, you hesitated. But then you forced a small smile, trying to reassure her-and maybe yourself-that everything would be fine. Without another word, you opened the door and ran out, making sure to catch the boat before it left you behind.

You finally managed to find a seat, squeezed in among older men heading to the exam site. After a few minutes, you started to get a bit sleepy and you decided to take a nap until you arrived. But just as you were drifting off, a rough shove on your shoulder jolted you awake. "Hey, little girl, that's my seat," a man scoffed. You raised an eyebrow and crossed your legs just to let him know you ain't moving.

❝𝙎𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩? ❞