THE SURVIVAL

At seventeen, Rex stood behind the counter of his adopted father's small tea shop, serving customers with the same calm smile he wore every day. The afternoon sun streamed through the shop's glass windows, casting golden light across his face. Even in a simple, inexpensive shirt hidden beneath a clean apron, he looked striking. His fair skin glowed under the sunlight, while his broad shoulders and lean, athletic build hinted at years of hard work rather than luxury. His long eyelashes framed sharp eyes, his straight nose complemented his soft pink lips, and despite wearing cheap but neatly ironed clothes, he carried himself with the natural elegance of someone born into wealth. Many customers found themselves staring for a moment longer than necessary. "One iced Americano, please," a young woman said. Rex nodded politely, prepared the drink with practiced hands, and placed it on the counter. "Thank you." "You're welcome," he replied before returning to cleaning the equipment. It was already 3:00 p.m. He untied his apron, finished wiping the counter, and bowed slightly to his adopted father. "I'm leaving now, Dad. I still need to prepare for tomorrow." His adopted father sighed. "I wish I could help you with university tuition." Rex smiled gently. "You've already done enough. I'll earn my future myself." His dream had always been simple—to attend university, gain an education, become successful, and repay the kindness of the poor family that had raised him. But dreams were expensive. Unable to afford tuition, Rex worked every night after classes at the tea shop, saving every coin for transportation to the city, where he would sit for one of the country's most competitive scholarship examinations. For months, he studied until dawn, often sleeping only a few hours before returning to work. Failure wasn't an option. --- The next morning... After an exhausting journey from his rural village, Rex finally arrived at the examination center in the city. He adjusted the strap of his worn backpack and took a deep breath. "Everything depends on today." As he entered the classroom, conversations slowly died down. Many of the male candidates glanced at him with quiet envy. "Who's that guy?" "Is he really here for the scholarship exam?" Meanwhile, several girls couldn't help stealing another look. "He's... unbelievably handsome." "Does a village boy really look like that?" Among them stood Stella. Known around campus for her beauty and confidence, Stella came from an average family but was admired by nearly everyone she met. Smiling, she walked confidently toward Rex. "Hi," she said, extending her hand. "I'm Stella." Rex looked at her briefly. "..." Without saying a word, he walked past her and took his seat. Stella blinked in disbelief. "Excuse me?" she called after him. "Did you just ignore me?" Several students turned to watch. Rex calmly placed his admission slip on the desk and began arranging his pens, showing no intention of arguing. Stella frowned, her pride wounded. "You're unbelievable!" She took another step toward him, ready to confront him— "Everyone, take your seats immediately." The invigilator had entered the classroom. The room instantly fell silent. Rex looked up at the front of the class, his full attention now fixed on the examination that could change his life forever. "Good morning, candidates," he announced. "You have four hours to complete this examination. Any form of malpractice will lead to immediate disqualification. I wish you all the best." The question papers were placed face down on every desk. Rex lowered his head and quietly closed his eyes. "This is my only chance. I can't fail... not for myself, but for Dad." "Begin!" The hall erupted with the sound of papers turning. Rex glanced through the questions. A faint smile appeared on his face. Months of studying after long hours in the tea shop had prepared him for this moment. His pen moved confidently across the answer sheet while many candidates scratched their heads in frustration. Across the room, Stella couldn't stop stealing glances at him. "Who is he? Why does he look so calm?" she wondered. An hour later, whispers spread through the hall as a few students quietly surrendered to the pressure. Rex never looked up. Every answer flowed naturally, as though he had seen the questions before. Three hours later, he placed his pen on the desk and carefully reviewed every page. Satisfied, he stood. The invigilator looked at him in surprise. "Are you certain you're done?" "Yes, sir." He handed over his script and walked out of the hall without looking back. As soon as he stepped outside, he took a deep breath. The bright afternoon sun warmed his face. For the first time in months, the burden on his shoulders felt lighter. Unknown to him, Stella hurried out moments later, scanning the crowd until she spotted him walking toward the bus stop. "Wait!" she called. Rex stopped but didn't turn around immediately. "I never got your name." He finally faced her. "...Rex." A smile spread across Stella's face. "I hope we meet again." Rex gave a small nod before boarding the old bus home. Neither of them knew that this examination would become the beginning of a story that would change their lives forever.