Growing up in a large, middle-class (if not lower) family had its challenges. More than I can account for actually. I had five older sisters and two older brothers. Throw me into the mix and that's a grand total of eight children living under one ro...
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"A tutor?" I repeat, shocked.
"Yes a tutor." Mr. Mao affirms as he nods his head.
No, this cannot be happening. In all of the years since I have started attending school I have never, and I mean never, needed a tutor before and I refuse to accept one now. I don't need anyone's help; I am more than capable of handling this on my own.
I am a strong and independent young woman who doesn't need to rely on anyone else but herself.
"I don't think that's necessary, sir. I can bring up my grade on my own. All I have to do is study and practice more." I declare, trying to plaster on my most serious face so that he could see how adamant I am about this ordeal.
"That's what you said after your last exam. I haven't seen any kind of progress from you at all," he sighs. "Rory, I really think it's time we got you a tutor who actually knows what he's doing. I think it's what's best for you. That is my final decision. The principal and I have already discussed this matter and if you decline, you will automatically fail my class. That means you won't be able to graduate with the rest of your classmates and will have to repeat your last year here."
I am utterly baffled and speechless. Another year trapped in that hell-hole called home? No thanks. I suppose getting a tutor this one time won't be such a bad thing. I just hope I can find somebody likeable. "Alright, I understand." I concede.
"Good. You guys can start today then." Mr. Mao beams brightly. "Come in please."
"Wait, what? You mean you already selected my tutor without even asking my opinion first?" I gape in stupor.
"Of course. After reviewing the grades and exams, we were able to figure out who was more than capable of teaching you. We picked the best math student out of the entire school especially for you; you have nothing to worry about. You'll definitely pass with flying colors with him as your mentor. I guarantee it." He grins widely and confidently. I can do nothing but sigh.
The door opens behind me and as I spin around, my heart nearly pops right out of my chest. "N-Noah?" I stutter like a scratched record. How in the world did this happen? First I'm stuck with him for a project and now this? Is the world out to get me or something? This can't be a coincidence.
"So you two are already acquainted with each other? That's even better! Rory, Noah here has agreed to tutor you free of charge. You should be extremely thankful. Not a lot of people these days will do things for free. If that is all, I will be leaving. Just remember to turn off the lights when you kids leave. Enjoy the rest of your evening." Before I could get another word out, however, Mr. Mao has already exited the room, the door closing softly behind him.
I honestly don't know what to say. This is so awkward and I can tell you I usually never have to deal with awkward situations but today seems to be an exception. What am I supposed to do? What am I supposed to say? "Hi?" I cough out at last. Okay, that sounded totally lame. Should I try it again?
