First Day in College
Bird was the kind of girl who trusted no one. For her, life was simple—focus on studies, keep conversations short, and never expect too much from anyone. She didn’t hate people; she just didn’t belong to their world.
It was her first day in college—and her birthday too. Happiness quietly bloomed inside her, not because of the day but because a new chapter of life was beginning. The campus buzzed with laughter and endless chatter, but Bird walked in softly, like a breeze no one notices. Her father had dropped her off on his bike, and as she waved him goodbye, the air felt strangely unfamiliar yet hopeful.
She entered the classroom, clutching her notebook like a shield. Her eyes searched for a quiet corner, but the third bench seemed safe—two girls were already sitting there, smiling politely. Bird slid into the seat beside them, careful not to disturb their space.
Then, another girl arrived—their friend. The third one. Bird instantly felt like an outsider in a place she didn’t own. Without a word, she picked up her bag and walked to the last bench. That’s what Bird did whenever she felt like she was in someone else’s way—she moved before anyone asked her to.
The last bench was cold and quiet, but it felt right. It was her kind of place. Hidden. Distant. Safe.
The teacher entered soon after and began introductions. One by one, everyone said their names, where they were from, and how they felt. When it was Bird’s turn, she spoke softly, just enough to be heard. No extra words, no unnecessary smiles—just her truth in the simplest way.
During the break, many students came to talk to her—maybe because she seemed new, maybe because of her calm nature. Bird replied politely, in a soft voice that barely carried across the noise.
When the last lecture ended early, the class buzzed with laughter and gossip, but Bird quietly walked to the library. Among shelves of books, in the scent of old pages, she found peace. The library felt like home—a world where no one asked questions and silence was a language.
And just like that, the first day of college—and her birthday—came to an end. Bird didn’t know that this quiet beginning would soon collide with a storm she never saw coming.
