The office smelled faintly of books and coffee. I closed the door behind me and took a seat across from my lecturer, who gestured for me to relax.
“Nicole,” she began, her voice soft but firm, “I’ve been meaning to talk to you. I hope you don’t mind me asking…” She paused, studying my face carefully. “How have you been coping? Especially after… everything with your parents.”
My throat tightened, and I swallowed hard. I hadn’t expected anyone from my school to ask that. Most people avoided the topic entirely.
“I… I’m managing, ma’am,” I said, forcing a small smile. “It’s been hard, but I’m trying to focus on school.”
She nodded, her expression thoughtful. “I can see that. And honestly, I’m impressed with how you’ve handled yourself. It’s not easy to keep pushing forward after such a los
