Mr. Me

Chapter 4: The Storm Before the Calm

The conflict reached its peak during the university's annual academic fair. Professor Villarosa was in charge and deliberately assigned Miguel the most difficult cleanup tasks, including cleaning up after a messy science experiment that left sticky residue all over the floor.

While Miguel was on his knees scrubbing, Villarosa passed by with visitors and loudly remarked, "See? This is what happens when people don't know their limits. Some dreams are just delusions."

That was the moment something inside Miguel shifted from quiet endurance to quiet resolve. He finished his work, went home, and spent the entire night preparing.

Unknown to Villarosa, Dean Reyes had been compiling reports from students and staff about Miguel's unofficial tutoring and positive influence. She submitted a strong recommendation for Miguel to be given a chance as a probationary instructor for a new "Bridging Program" for working students and underprivileged youth.

The decision was to be announced in a week.

But Villarosa caught wind of it. In a desperate move, he fabricated a complaint accusing Miguel of inappropriate behavior with female students (based on nothing but his jealousy). A formal investigation was launched.

For three painful days, Miguel was suspended from work. He sat in his small room, worried about rent and food, while Rosa brought him homemade arroz caldo and quietly held his hand.

"Don't lose your light, Miguel," she whispered. "The truth always wins."