Hate is the New Love

“Did you all finish the assignment I gave you?” asked the elderly teacher, her eyes scanning the row of small children before her. “Yes, teacher!” the class responded in unison—everyone, except for one little girl sitting at the very back, grinning mischievously. She stood out immediately as the cheeky one in the group. “What was the assignment I gave you again?” The cute children answered all at once, their voices full of excitement: “To tell the love story of our mom and dad!” The elderly teacher smiled, clearly pleased with their response. Since it was Valentine’s Day, each student was expected to share the love story of their parents in front of the class. “So, who wants to go first?” she asked with a warm smile. All the children’s hands shot up in the air. The elderly teacher found herself overwhelmed as every single one of her students was eager to share the love story of their parents. Then her eyes landed on a girl sitting quietly at the very back. She was chewing bubble gum, even though it was clearly against the rules. Suddenly, the girl stood up and walked confidently to the front of the class. Everyone, including the teacher, was caught off guard. The girl carried herself with boldness, clearly, she inherited that attitude from someone. The sunlight streaming through the window caught the glossy surface of her ID, making it shimmer. Sakura. That was her name. “I’ll go first. I’m sure you’re all going to love this,” She raised her chin proudly. The elderly teacher had no choice but to return to her seat. Every child in the room now sat silently, their eyes fixed seriously on the girl in front. Sakura cleared her throat before she began to tell the story.