"Mail, right. Mail Jeevas? Allow me to introduce myself. I am Roger, I run this academy. It's a pleasure meeting you." The old man smiled.
"Pleasure to meet you too, Roger." I was nervous. God, I'm not used to human contact, it's me! I'd much rather just get this bull shit introduction over with so I can go to my room, hook up my PS3, and play Fallout. I like that reality much better than this lame one, the games reality is so interesting.
"Well, let's go over some ground rules. First off, You are expected to attend classes regularly, with the exception of being sick, or if you are given special permission as to why you can go. Second, You are to be respectful of teachers, students, and visitors. Third, you are not to go outside the school gates without me. If you break any of these rules then we will discipline you accordingly." His dark eyes sent chills down my spine. "Do I make myself clear?" If words could kill I'd be dead with that last sentence.
"Y- yes Roger." My hands were shaking uncontrollably as an eerie awkward silence fell over us.
"… Well, we also have to discuss the matter of identification." The silence was broken. "You are no longer named Mail Jeevas. You must NEVER tell anyone that name. Guard it with your life. Do you understand?"
"I understand." Was all I could choke out.
"Now, do you have a name in mind for yourself?" He raised an eyebrow.
I didn't know what to do, so I just said the first thing that came to mind. "Matilda!" I burst out.
"… Matilda? That name may raise suspicion, don't you think." His eyebrow went higher.
Seriously! All the names in the world, and I pick Matilda! That's not even a cool name, I would tease the poor guy named Matilda! Ugh, why do I have to be so socially awkward? I just dropped my head in disappointment.
Roger stared at me for a few seconds. "Um, why don't we try a boys name. Since you like, Matilda, so much we could call you Matt. But, you know, if you really want Matilda- "
"Matts fine!" I burst out, cutting Roger off.
"Okay then, Matt." He chuckled at my embarrassment. "Let me just check the dorm list." He picked up a piece of paper. He looked over it and frowned. "Hmm, unfortunately all students already have a roommate, except for one. You will be sharing your room with… Mello."
"Mello?" I cocked my head.
"… Mello" Roger dropped his head, in pity almost.
"O-okay." Roger was giving off some pretty bad vibes.
"Your room number is 142, here's a key." He checked his watch. "Everyone should still be in classes, so if I were you I'd go set up my stuff while Mello's out." He shoved a key in my hand, and directed me to the door. "Take care, Matilda."
And that was my one chance to make a good first impression on the head of the orphanage, and I blew it. I still can't get over that. Why Matilda!
