My alarm rings at 6.30

No it's not for me to wake up.

I'm already awake and ready

It's to leave the house.

I make haste and step out

Closing the door behind me.

I take out the white ribbon from my gown pocket.

And tie it around the hairband of one braid.

And do the same for the other.

I plaster my polite smile.

Eyes wrinkling

with the corners of mouth moving.

I make it to the bus stop.

I take a quick glance

Wishing there were no boys of my age or older.

If I notice one I dread my awkward reaction

Sometimes a smile

Sometimes none.

They are thinking I'm arrogant.

Not that I'm at a loss on how to interact.

The crowded CTB stops at the halt

We don't get in.

The people inside are sandwiched to save up money.

A bus of a private company comes.

My heart drops a beat.

The daymare I want to erase comes in a rush.

Just like when I see a middle aged man

Short and fat and dark holding a shopping bag.

The bus comes near.

There are only a few standing.

I sigh silently in relief

And gets on.

But it's after I get off near the school that I relax.

I enter the school where

I'll be myself.

A mere student among a thousands

Who only wishes to be bold.