Sinking Deep (GL)

CHAPTER 11

She really holds power over us.

Nagsimula nang mag report isa-isa ang mga student, I couldn't help but be amazed by the variety of concepts and methods as each student took the podium to deliver their advertising. While some speeches were brash and riveting, others were more subtly persuading.

Nakikita ko namang patango-tango lang si Ma'am Rhea sa mga nagrereport sa harap. It was a showcase of the students' talents and their understanding of the art of advertising, pero alam kong kinakain na sila ng takot dahil sa titig ng propesora.

Ako na ang susunod na magrereport, hindi pa nga ako nakakatayo ay pinagtitinginan na ako ng lahat. Halos lahat kinikilig nang tumayo ako, may kumakaway ding ibang student sakin but I couldn't ignore the intense stare from my professor. Her eyes seemed to bore into mine, making me feel nervous.

Kinuha ko ang nilagyan ng cappuccino pagkatapos ay pumunta sa harap, inayos ko muna ang damit ko tapos nagtilian naman ang ibang babae sa room, may iba ring lalaki.

"Begin," she said authoritatively.

Taking a deep breath, I began my advertisement, trying to project confidence despite the butterflies in my stomach. The aroma of the cappuccino filled the air, enticing everyone around me.

I described how the creamy froth perfectly complemented the rich espresso, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

"The sight of delicate, frothy patterns swirling atop the cappuccino," sabi ko sabay bukas ng takip ng cappuccino at uminom ng konti, " And ohh, it invites you to savor each moment of this luxurious experience" I said, advertising. Pinunasan ko pa ang gilid ng labi ko pagkatapos ko inumin.

Nagtilian na naman ang mga students sa room which added to my confidence more.

Nang tumingin ako kay Ma'am Rhea her face remained neutral, giving away nothing about her thoughts. As I spoke, her gaze was intense, her eyes scrutinizing every word and gesture.

Pero kahit ganun, ang ganda niya pa rin sa paningin ko, sobrang ganda niya, nakakabaliw.

Nagpatuloy ako sa pag-advertise sa harap, the students seemed interested and nodded along as I gave my presentation.

May kumakaway at kinikilig sakin.

But knowing that I had succeeded in getting their attention, it was satisfying to observe their interest.

Natapos akong mag report sa harap, pinalakpakan ako ng lahat, including Cat.

"Nice Frey!" sigaw ng isang lalaki.
"Saan ba makabili n'yan?" sabi ng isang babae.
"I would buy that any day!" sigaw ng isang babae.
"May coffee shop ba kayo, pa-order!!"

Ngumiti lang ako sa kanila but when I look at her face, her face remained composed, leaving me uncertain about what she truly thought.

Did I fail my advertising?

I awaited my professor's feedback, hoping for some indication of what she thought. But she remained composed, giving no hints about her true feelings.

I sighed.

Siguro hindi ko na reach ang standard niya, I lost my confidence nung bumalik na ako sa seat ko. Maraming nag congratulate including Cat but I crave for my professor's comment.

Pero wala, none.

I couldn't help but wonder what's her true opinion of my work was as the class went on to the following presentation. Though I longed for her comment and compliment.

Hindi niya siguro ako gusto kasi halata naman, every move I make, she's there criticizing me. I can't comprehend her actions and attitude towards me.

Parang hindi kami compatible sa isa't isa.