Chapter 1 — Introduction (Part 1)

"Okay class, that's it for today. Make sure to do your assignment," our teacher told us as we nodded in response and left school. 

Yeah, this is my life. It's boring. School, work, work, and more work. I have three part-time jobs so I can pay for college because I'm not one of those smarty-pants students you always see with books. Nor am I one of those spoiled brats of rich parents. I don't have any free time to enjoy with friends and explore the outside world. But it's fine. Better than having fake friends. At least that's what I tell myself.

My dad and I are the only bread-winners in my family as my mom is sick and my brother is still studying. I've been living alone in a small 1LDK apartment far away from my family because I have to study and work at the same time. 

I went straight to my apartment and got ready as fast as possible. I didn't want to be late for work. I left my room, locked my door, and headed for my workplace. 

"Ella, you're here. Great! Can you please help me take orders? There are a lot of customers today," Jin, my co-worker, said to me. He's a very good person and is like a brother to me.

"Okay, let me quickly change, and then I'll be there," I said and rushed towards the staff room to change into my work uniform.

I helped Jin for what felt like forever. It was very hectic as there were so many customers, just as Jin had said. Finally, my shift was over, and I waved goodbye to Jin and went to my other job. 

This job involved cooking meals and cleaning house for an old couple. They were really sweet, and they let me go as soon as I completed my work. After dealing with the house chores and cooking, I went straight to the convenience store. I work as a cashier there. All of my jobs have decent pay, but they're not enough to take care of the hospital and utility bills, including my and my brother's school fees. 

As always, it was 11 PM by the time I got home. It always got dark, but I needed to be brave because I was not one of those lucky people who had an easy life.

So that basically sums up my life. The life of Ella Scarlet.