Bill's POV:
Today is the day I transfer to the prestigious Glistening High. I decided to change schools for personal reasons.
One reason is to become independent, without relying on my parents. I want to grow into a man they can be proud of someday.
Another reason is to avoid my childhood friend, Stephanie. She's been bothering me ever since we started elementary school together. I know she has feelings for me, but she's going overboard—constantly stopping me from getting close to other female classmates.
Well, Kim is an exception since the three of us grew up together. On top of that, Stephanie spreads rumors that we're dating. I hate misunderstandings and troublesome situations. I only see her as a good friend—nothing more.
These are the reasons I applied for a scholarship at a school far from my hometown. I just hope I can have the peaceful life I've been dreaming of here.
As soon as I arrived at Glistening High, I was mesmerized. There's no doubt—it's a school for the children of wealthy families. Luckily, I got in thanks to my outstanding grades, despite my social background.
I felt nervous walking through the gates. It was already lunchtime, and the courtyard was packed with students. I felt out of place, knowing they might see me as an outcast. But worrying wouldn't help. I decided to head straight to the principal's office so I could finally reach my classroom.
Since I was new, I didn't know where the office was, so I asked some students for directions. Once I opened the door, my new life would officially begin. Okay, Bill… you can do this.
I knocked three times and heard a weak voice call, "Come in!"
Inside, I saw an elderly man who I assumed was the principal.
"Good day, Sir. I'm Bill Burton, the transfer student starting today. I apologize for arriving late; I just got into the city this morning and had to settle some things first." I bowed politely.
"No worries. It's your first day—I wouldn't want to scare you with a scolding. It's a pleasure to have you here. Your previous grades are exceptional, even compared to the top students at this school. Rarely do we get someone who can compete with the prodigies. I assume you're eager to meet your new classmates?"
"Yes, Sir!"
"You'll be in Grade 10, Class 1. It's where the top students belong, so expect plenty of competition. I hope you continue doing your best."
"Thank you very much, Sir. Um… where is my classroom? I'm still unfamiliar with the campus and came here with directions from other students. This school is enormous!"
"Ah, right… forgive me, I'm getting senile. Honestly, it might be hard for you to find your class alone, so I'll have the Student Council President accompany you. She's also your classmate and can introduce you to everyone. Go straight down the hallway; her office is at the end."
"Thank you, Sir. I'll head there now."
"I hope you settle in quickly."
I closed the door and walked down the hallway. At the end, a small girl opened the door when I knocked.
"Yes? Can I help you?" she asked.
"Um… yes. I'm looking for the Student Council President. By any chance—is she here?"
"Ah, yes. Please come in."
I stepped into the office and was immediately impressed. The room was huge, almost like a living room, spacious enough for a hundred students.
"Sophia, I think this young man needs your help," a soft voice said.
Startled, I looked up. A girl, busy writing with two boys beside her, now looked at me. She must be Sophia, the Student Council President.
"So, what do you need from me?" she asked, her voice calm but focused.
"I… I was sent by the principal. He said you'd accompany me to my classroom since you'll also be my classmate," I explained.
She paused her writing and smiled. "Ah, so you're the new student. What's your name?"
"I'm Bill Burton, from the outskirts of the city. Please take care of me, Ma'am."
She suddenly giggled.
"Is something funny?" I asked, confused.
"Don't worry about it! No need for formalities—we're the same age, and soon we'll be classmates. Sure, I'm the Student Council President now, but outside this office, I'm just a normal student, studying to achieve my dreams like you. I'm Sophia Bailey. Just call me Sophia." She motioned to the two students beside her. "And these are my co-student council members. Introduce yourselves."
"Nice to meet you, Mr. Burton! I'm Kristoffer Harvey from Class 2. Our classrooms are close, so we'll probably see each other a lot. Enjoy your time here!" the boy said enthusiastically.
"I'm Shakira Evans, one of your classmates-to-be. Hope we get along!" the girl who had welcomed me earlier said.
"I'm Lance Ford. I'll be in your class too. Nice to meet you!" the tall, carefree-looking boy added.
"Now that you know the Student Council members, you can approach us anytime for help. For now, just wait here; we're finishing your transfer papers. Shakira, could you bring him some cookies or snacks while he waits?"
"Sure, Sophia. Please wait here, Mr. Burton. I'll be right back with something to eat," Shakira said, leading me to a cozy resting area.
"Thank you!" I murmured, still amazed by how welcoming everyone was.