5

“Okay, Lily, let’s tackle some high school-level math today,” I began, smiling warmly at her. “Let’s start with a problem involving algebraic expressions. How about we work on simplifying algebraic fractions?”

Lily nodded, ready to take on the challenge. “Sure, that sounds interesting. How do we start?”

“We’ll start with a simple example,” I explained. “Let’s simplify the expression (x^2 - 4) / (x + 2). First, we need to factor the numerator and denominator.”

Lily furrowed her brow in concentration as she followed along. “Okay, so the numerator can be factored as (x + 2)(x - 2), and the denominator is already factored as (x + 2).”

“Right,” I confirmed. “Now, we can cancel out the common factor of (x + 2) from the numerator and denominator, leaving us with (x - 2). So, the simplified form of the expression is just x - 2.”

Lily nodded, understanding the process. “Got it. That makes sense. Can we try another one?”

As Lily and I were finishing up our tutoring session, her mother, Mrs. Anderson, walked into the room with a warm smile, holding a tray of snacks for us. Lily eagerly grabbed a snack, her eyes still bright with the excitement of our lesson.

I stood up to greet Mrs. Anderson, thanking her for the snacks. After a moment’s hesitation, I knew I needed to have a conversation with her.

“Mrs. Anderson, I wanted to talk to you about something,” I began, my tone gentle but serious. “I recently got a new job opportunity that requires me to work full-time. I’m afraid this might be our last tutoring session with Lily.”

Mrs. Anderson’s smile faltered slightly as she absorbed the news. “Oh, I see,” she said softly. “Lily has really enjoyed having you as her tutor. You’ve been such a great help to her.”

I nodded, feeling a pang of sadness myself. “I’ve really enjoyed working with Lily too. She’s a bright and dedicated student.”

Mrs. Anderson nodded thoughtfully. “She’ll surely miss having you around. You’ve made a real difference for her.”

After saying goodbye to Lily and her mother, I left for my school to attend my two classes. As I sat in the lectures, my mind kept drifting back to my conversation with Mrs. Anderson and Lily. I felt a twinge of sadness knowing that it might be the last time I would see Lily as her tutor.

After my classes, I headed straight to my part-time job. As I walked into the office, I knew I had to talk to my supervisor about my decision to resign. It wasn’t an easy choice, but my new full-time job required my complete focus.

I found my supervisor and asked if we could talk privately. Once we were alone, I explained my situation and expressed my gratitude for the opportunity to work there. My supervisor was understanding and wished me the best in my new job.

After finishing my two classes, I received a call from Mr. Kyoto’s secretary asking me to meet him at an exclusive restaurant. I agreed and quickly made my way there, feeling a mix of curiosity and nervousness about what Mr. Kyoto wanted to discuss.

As I entered the restaurant, I couldn’t help but feel a bit out of place. The atmosphere was elegant and sophisticated, with soft lighting and plush furnishings. The aroma of delicious food filled the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation.

I glanced down at myself and realized that I was still wearing my school uniform. Embarrassment washed over me as I realized that I stood out among the well-dressed patrons of the restaurant. I wished I had taken the time to change into something more appropriate for such a fancy establishment.

Ignoring my self-consciousness, I approached the maître d’ and asked for Mr. Kyoto’s reservation. The maître d’ nodded politely and led me to a private dining area where Mr. Kyoto was waiting.

As I walked towards him, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. Mr. Kyoto was seated at a table, exuding an air of authority and sophistication. He was impeccably dressed in a tailored suit, and his demeanor commanded respect.

“Good evening, Polaris,” Mr. Kyoto greeted me with a warm smile as I approached. “I’m glad you could make it.”

Duh, of course, you are my employer.

“Good evening, Mr. Kyoto,” I replied, trying to hide my annoyance. “Thank you for inviting me.”

As I sat across from Mr. Kyoto in the elegant restaurant, the subdued lighting and soft ambiance contrasted sharply with the weight of the conversation. Mr. Kyoto, dressed impeccably in a tailored suit, exuded an air of authority as he began to outline the details of my new role.

“First and foremost, Polaris,” Mr. Kyoto began in his authoritative tone, “your primary responsibility will be to keep an eye on my grandchildren while they are at school.”

I nodded, taking in his words. “I understand. It’s important to ensure they represent the family well.”

“They are bright kids, but they can be a handful at times,” Mr. Kyoto continued. “I need someone reliable to ensure they stay out of trouble and adhere to the school’s rules.”

“I will do my best to ensure they follow the rules and avoid any trouble,” I assured him, feeling the weight of the responsibility he was entrusting to me.

I stopped myself from scoffing, he is speaking like this kids were not grown ass people.

“Good,” Mr. Kyoto said, acknowledging my commitment. “You will also need to report to me daily about their activities and any incidents that may occur.”

“Of course,” I replied, making a mental note to keep detailed records of my observations. “I will keep you informed about everything that happens.”

“In addition,” Mr. Kyoto added, “You will be responsible for resolving any conflicts that may arise among the grandchildren or with other students.”

I took a deep breath, realizing the scope of my responsibilities. “I will do my best to handle any conflicts with diplomacy and fairness,” I promised, determined to meet Mr. Kyoto’s expectations.

“Excellent,” Mr. Kyoto said, his expression conveying his confidence in me. “Your role is crucial in ensuring their well-being and representing our family.”

What should I fucking do? I don’t know. This meeting doesn’t help me at all. Jeez.