01 ~ A new day

                                    

                                          

You didn't like old expressions, but you were literally shaking in your boots.
Staring at the looming UA highschool was enough to make you want to high tail it out of there. Forget the entrance exam. You were going to vomit from your nerves.
The only thing keeping you from running away was your father's hand resting on your shoulder as he stared at the highschool.
"You know, I went here too."
You took a shuddering breath, "Yeah. You tell me that all the time."
He laughed sheepishly before nudging his head against yours, "Sorry. I just get a little excited. But in all honesty, it's still my favourite place. And- are you alright? You look like you're about to pass out!"
You shook your head before bending down and resting your hands on your knees, "I'm fine. Just a little winded."
"From the three second walk from the train to here?"
"Dad please. I feel like I'm dying."
He chuckled again, this time with a touch of sympathy in his voice. "I remember feeling the same way. It's normal to be nervous, especially with how big and important this place feels."
You took another deep breath, trying to steady yourself. "I know, but it's different for me. You were a kid with a dream. I'm... I'm just trying not to screw up."
His hand squeezed your shoulder reassuringly. "Look, no matter what happens today, it's just the beginning. You've already shown more courage by being here than most people do. That's worth something, right?"
You looked up at him, finding some comfort in his earnest smile. "Yeah, I guess. But what if I mess up the entrance exam? What if I don't make it?"
He tilted his head thoughtfully. "You know, when I was in your shoes, I was terrified of failing too. But it's not about being perfect. It's about giving it your all and learning from the experience, no matter the outcome."
"You sound like some sort of hippie dad."
He shot you a glare, "Thanks."
The sound of students chattering and the distant hum of activity from inside the school made you glance back at the entrance. The grand structure seemed even more imposing up close, but his words helped to chip away at the weight on your chest.
"Okay," you said, straightening up. "I'm going to try my best."
"That's the spirit!" he said, grinning. "Remember, you're not alone in this. I'm proud of you no matter what." Your dad pressed a small kiss to your forehead. "Your mom wanted to be here but she couldn't get the day off. You're going to kick ass (Y/n). I promise."

He managed to make it ten steps down the road before he felt you slamming into his back.
"Sweetheart-"
"Dad I'm gonna puke!"

-❦-

Your dad all but dragged you into the school ground before leaving you there. You in fact did not puke - so that was already a win. A good way to start off the day.
You took a moment to compose yourself, glancing around at the bustling entrance area. The students milling about seemed to exude a blend of excitement and confidence that only added to your already heightened nerves. It was easy to feel overwhelmed amidst the sea of faces, each one probably brimming with their own anxieties and hopes.