It's ok to be broken

Chapter 7 Unexpected Offer

Anna woke up with determination coursing through her veins. She got dressed and headed to school, but her resolve was quickly shattered when she arrived at her school. The teacher stood at the front, reading out the names of students who hadn't paid their school fees. Anna's heart sank as she heard her name, followed by her little brother Jack's.

Tears streamed down her face as she felt a mix of emotions: shame, anxiety, and fear. She quickly pulled out her phone and dialed her mom's number, but it went straight to voicemail. She sent a text, but it took a few minutes for her mom to call back.

"Mom, why didn't you pay our school fees?" Anna asked, trying to hold back tears. Her mom's voice was weak on the other end.

"Anna, I'm sorry. I just can't cope with everything right now. You and Jack should just drop out of school." Anna felt a wave of anger and sadness wash over her.

"You're a failure, Mom!" she exclaimed, before bursting into tears. But then her mom dropped a bombshell:

"Anna, I'm going into surgery today. That's why I couldn't pay the fees." Anna's anger dissipated, replaced by concern for her mom's well-being.

She quickly got herself together, bathed, and dressed. When she saw Jack, he looked up at her with worried eyes.

"Big sis, will I be a dropout?" he asked, his voice trembling. Anna's heart ached at the thought of her little brother giving up on his education.

"No, Jack, you will finish school and become a graduate," she said, trying to sound confident. But as she looked at Jack, she felt a lump form in her throat,as she walked back home living jack to play with his friends.

As Anna walked home, tears streaming down her face, Alex's expression softened. He had no idea that she was struggling with school fees. He had been watching her from afar, admiring her strength and resilience. But he had no idea about her financial struggles.

"What's wrong?" Alex asked, his voice gentle.

Anna quickly wiped away her tears. "Nothing," she muttered, trying to walk past him.

But Alex stopped her. "I just need your help with something," he said, his eyes locked on hers. "It's a job, and I'll pay you any amount you want."

Anna's eyes widened as she turned to face him. Tears began to roll down her face once again as she considered his offer. Could this be the solution to their financial problems? Could this be the way to save her brother's education?

But Alex's next words surprised her. "I've been watching you, Anna. I know you're a hard worker. And I'm willing to pay you well for your help."

Anna's eyes narrowed. How did he know she was a hard worker? And what did he want her to do?

"What do I have to do?" Anna asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alex smiled, his eyes gleaming with intensity. "I'll explain everything later," he said. "But for now, let's just say that you'll be helping me with a little project. And in return, I'll make sure you're well taken care of."

Anna's heart skipped a beat as she considered the offer. It sounded too good to be true, but she was desperate. She was willing to try anything to save her brother's education.

"Okay," Anna said finally, her voice firm. "I'll do it."

Alex smiled, his eyes gleaming with triumph. "I'll send a car for you tomorrow morning," he said. "Be ready."

Anna nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. What had she just gotten herself into?