Chapter 6
After hours of driving, the car pulled up in front of a magnificent building that seemed to sprawl across the landscape. There was no gate to speak of, just a seamless transition from the road to the school's grounds. As we drove further in, the school came into view, and I couldn't help but gasp in awe. It didn't look like a traditional school at all – more like a luxurious retreat or a high-end resort. The buildings were stunning, with sleek lines and gleaming facades that seemed to shimmer in the sunlight.
The surroundings were equally impressive, with lush greenery and perfectly manicured lawns that seemed to stretch on forever. Students were scattered about, some lounging on the grass, others chatting in small groups. Many were still in their pajamas, giving the impression that the school hadn't yet resumed after a break.
Mr Kim announced our arrival with a simple "We're here now." I turned to him, raising an eyebrow. "Are you sure this is the right place?" I asked, still trying to process the sheer scale and beauty of the campus.
Mr Kim's response was dry. "Were you expecting something...downgraded?" he asked, his tone neutral.
I hesitated, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Well, not downgraded exactly. It's just...this place doesn't really look like what I had imagined," I admitted.
Mr Kim nodded curtly, then exited the car without another word. He began unloading my luggage from the trunk, leaving me to follow him in stunned silence. The atmosphere was so relaxed and laid-back that I couldn't help but wonder what the rest of my time here would be like.
As I trailed behind Mr Kim, the grandeur of the school's grounds unfolded before me like a canvas of unparalleled beauty. The atmosphere was suffused with an air of luxury, every detail meticulously crafted to exude sophistication and refinement. It was as if I had stumbled into a high-end resort, not a place of learning. The thought brought a wry smile to my lips;
As we navigated through the throngs of students, I was struck by the kaleidoscope of faces that surrounded me. The diversity was breathtaking – students from all corners of the globe, each with their unique story to tell. There were British, Americans,African Americans and more. The realization hit me like a wave of relief; I wouldn't have to struggle to communicate, no fumbling over Korean phrases or navigating unfamiliar customs. The cosmopolitan atmosphere was a balm to my anxious soul.
The school itself was a labyrinthine complex, sprawling across the landscape like a living, breathing entity. Students milled about everywhere, their laughter and chatter filling the air. I felt a tad overwhelmed, the sheer scale of the place daunting. But Mr Kim moved with purpose, his eyes fixed on some point ahead, his stride confident and assured. I followed closely behind, drinking in the sights and sounds of this strange new world. Every step revealed something new – a courtyard bursting with greenery, a fountain that sang a gentle melody, a walkway lined with quotes from great thinkers.
The more I saw, the more I felt like an outsider looking in. This wasn't just a school; it was a world unto itself, with its own rules, its own rhythms. And I was about to become a part of it, for better or for worse. The thought sent a shiver down my spine, a mix of excitement and trepidation. What lay ahead? Only time would tell.
As we reached the entrance of the school, Mr Kim efficiently handed me my boxes and luggage. "I'll take my leave now," he said, his voice a monotone, before turning to walk away.
I felt a surge of uncertainty as I watched him disappear into the distance. Wait, was I supposed to just go in myself? Where was I supposed to start? A wave of anxiety washed over me, and I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself down. "Breathe in, Sarah," I told myself, "breathe out."
With newfound determination, I grasped my boxes and stepped into the school. The interior was just as impressive as the exterior, with a grand middle hall that seemed to stretch on forever. Chairs and tables were scattered about, creating cozy nooks and inviting spaces. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. This place was going to be my home for a while, and I had a feeling I was going to enjoy my stay. The thought brought a smile to my face as I began to make my way through the hall, taking in the sights and sounds of my new surroundings.
As I stepped into the school's foyer, my eyes landed on a sleek reception desk, where three women worked with quiet efficiency. A handful of students milled about, chatting with the staff or collecting papers. I wheeled my luggage over to the desk, feeling a bit out of place.
I attempted a greeting in Korean, hoping to make a good impression.
"An eo hee haseyo," I said, trying to mimic the gentle cadence of the language. However, my pronunciation was slightly off, and one of the women couldn't help but smile. Her eyes crinkled at the corners, and I felt a flush rise to my cheeks.
"Hello, how may we help you?" she asked in flawless English, her tone warm and welcoming. I explained my situation, and she nodded sympathetically. "I'm Sarah," I said, trying to sound confident.
She pulled out a thick ledger and began to flip through its pages, her fingers moving with precision. "Hold on, give me a few minutes," she said, her voice calm and soothing. I nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation build in my chest.
The minutes ticked by, and I shifted my weight from one foot to the other, feeling a bit restless. Finally, the woman looked up and smiled. "You're Sarah james right?" she asked, her eyes scanning my face.
I nodded
"Actually, you need to see the principal first." Her words were accompanied by a warm smile.
"Sorry, where's the principal's office?" The woman's smile grew wider, and she gave me directions, her hands gesturing expansively. "It's just down that way," she said. "You can't miss it."