he first light of morning slipped quietly through the small gaps in the roof of the hut. Inside, the day had already begun. The faint sound of vessels clinking and the smell of simple food filled the air as James's mother hurriedly prepared breakfast before leaving for work. James slowly opened his eyes, his body still tired from the previous night's long hours of food delivery. His muscles ached, but rest was a luxury he could rarely afford.
He sat up and looked around the small room where his family lived. His younger sister was already awake, sitting quietly with her books, trying to study before school. His younger brother watched James with admiration, always curious about college life. James gave them a faint smile before reaching for his breakfast. On the plate lay a single slice of bread. He dipped it slightly in water and ate slowly, trying to ignore the emptiness in his stomach.
As he ate, his mind wandered. College fees, household expenses, and the future of his brother and sister filled his thoughts. He knew his parents worked tirelessly as daily wage laborers, yet the money was never enough. Work had been uncertain lately, and he had overheard his father mention it the previous night. James quietly promised himself that somehow, one day, he would change their lives.
Not wanting to be late, he quickly got ready and rushed out of the hut. The narrow streets were already waking up, people moving about their morning routines. James ran toward the bus stop, knowing very well that if he missed this bus, he would not reach college on time. When the bus finally arrived, it was already overflowing with people. Still, he squeezed his way inside, gripping a rail to keep his balance.
The bus was crowded and noisy. A loud song played from the speakers while passengers talked over each other. Outside the window, the sky was cloudy, and the wind carried the smell of rain that might arrive at any moment. As the bus rattled through the busy streets, James stared outside, lost in his thoughts about the future he hoped to build.
When he finally reached the college and stepped off the bus, the atmosphere around him felt completely different. Cars and bikes lined the entrance as students arrived comfortably, some dropped off by their parents and others by drivers. Their clothes were stylish, their laughter carefree, and their conversations full of excitement. As James walked through the campus, he suddenly felt out of place. His simple clothes, worn shoes, and tired face made him feel different from the rest.
Groups of students gathered under trees and near the buildings, laughing and sharing stories. For a moment, James simply watched them, wondering what it would feel like to live without constant worry. Just then, a familiar voice called out to him.
"Hey, James!"
It was one of his close friends from class. Though slightly better off than him, his friend had always treated him with warmth and respect. James smiled as they greeted each other. The small conversation lifted his mood a little, reminding him that he was not entirely alone in this journey.
Together, they walked toward the classroom, talking casually about the day's lectures. As James stepped inside and took his seat, he pushed his worries aside for a moment.