Chapter 23: The Cikgu Diva Effect

March wasn't just about exams—it was also about survival.

And nothing required more mental strength than Cikgu Diva's History class.

Now, her real name? No one actually remembered. But everyone called her Cikgu Diva behind her back.

Why?

Because she looked like she was ready for a red carpet event every single day.

Heavy makeup, perfectly styled hair, the most dramatic outfits you could wear as a teacher—she was basically a walking fashion show.

And the best part? She had zero idea that we called her that.

The Quiz Results

History class was unusually tense today.

We had just gotten back our quiz papers, and Cikgu Diva was in a good mood—which meant two things:

She probably got a new expensive handbag.

Most of us did okay.

"Class," she said, her voice as dramatic as ever. "I must say, I am impressed. Some of you actually studied."

I held my breath as she started calling out scores.

"Rina, 86."

Rina fist-bumped the air. "Let's gooo."

"Azri, 42."

Azri groaned. "I told you I was bad at this."

Cikgu Diva rolled her eyes. "At this point, I think history is bad at you."

The class laughed.

Then she looked at me.

"Mana, 78."

I blinked. "Wait. What?"

She raised an eyebrow. "Surprised?"

Honestly? Yeah. I expected to barely scrape a pass, but 78? That was a miracle.

Cikgu Diva smiled. "Like I said, you have a good memory."

I nodded slowly. Maybe Cikgu Zul was right after all.

Evening Prep: The Nad-Faiz Situation (Again)

After school, evening prep class started. And, as usual, Nad walked to the next classroom.

To talk to Faiz.

Azri nudged me. "Bro, it's happening again."

I sighed. "I know."

Rina smirked. "Just admit it."

"Admit what?"

"That you care."

I frowned. "She's just talking to him."

Azri chuckled. "Yeah, yeah. Keep telling yourself that."

I looked down at my books, pretending to study.

But the truth?

I was starting to care.

Maybe more than I wanted to admit.

—Mana, March 2017