Chapter 9 Promissory

Bea

"Aunt offered me a part-time job at her coffee shop. At first, I declined because, what am I? Ungrateful? Am I really going to rely on my aunt for a part-time job? But she insisted that I work for her since they're short-staffed right now. You know how it is during the rainy season; their coffee is in high demand. So, they need more staff," Mathew explained to me.

"But it would be so rude if you invited me to work at your aunt's coffee shop. Maybe I should just find another job, like working as a crew member at a fast-food chain," I replied, turning down his offer.

"Come on, we won't start immediately. We'll apply properly; just because Aunt offered me a part-time job doesn't mean I can start right away. Of course, it doesn't work that way. I'll apply properly, and you know I'm not that kind of person, Bea. In fact, it would be great if she got some extra help," he was really trying to convince me.

I smiled slightly and nodded. "I'll really consider this a favor, you know."

"It's nothing. Besides, when I was struggling, where were you? Weren't you my ally? What are friends for... You can stay here whenever you want, but you have to contribute to the groceries," he said jokingly.

I laughed. "Of course, I'll contribute. I could even be the cook so Auntie can get some rest," I joked back.

"By the way, have you studied Gender and Society yet? Ma'am said in the group chat that she'll be holding an oral exam at the next meeting," I rubbed my head in frustration.

"I'm glad you reminded me. I almost forgot about that because of everything going on. What lessons will Ma'am be covering in the oral exam?" I asked him.

"Lessons 1 through 7. Don't worry, I've got your back," Mathew shrugged.

I shook my head. "You've already helped me a lot, so I'll study. No need to worry about me," he didn't respond to my comment.

The next day, Mathew and I went to the assessment office to get a promissory note.

"Tsk, the people working there are so grumpy. You'd think they're carrying the weight of the world," Mathew complained.

I shook my head at his comment. "Maybe they're just stressed; they have a lot of students to assist. We're probably not the only ones they're snapping at," I tried to calm him down.

"I know, but they shouldn't be so snippy. We're just asking questions. How am I supposed to know the process for this promissory note?" he grumbled.

We went directly to the faculty to get the Dean's signature. When we entered the office, we saw Marco with his fellow council members at Ma'am Vanna's table. They were engrossed in a discussion. I couldn't help but notice Marco, who was casually sitting, spinning a pen in his hand.

My eyebrows lifted slightly when he glanced our way. His gaze was serious... His fellow council members also glanced at us, so I quickly looked away and pulled Mathew towards Ma'am Marj's table.