Expecting Better Novels & Stories

Sam asked. The question hit me like a punch to the gut. "I don't expect things to get worse." "Yes, you do. Every time Maya has good news, you talk about how it might not last." "Sam..." Thomas started. "No, it's okay," I said. "Sam's right. I do that." "Why?" "Because I'm scared." "Of what?" "Of hoping too much. Of believing things are okay and then having them fall apart." "But things are okay right now."

The events of recent years had reshaped not only the political environment but also the expectations of citizens regarding their leaders and government. As Alex observed the new dynamics, he noted a growing trend of civic engagement among the populace. The crisis had served as a wake-up call for many, igniting a sense of responsibility and ownership over the democratic process. Citizens were increasingly vocal about their expectations for transparency, accountability, and integrity in government. This shift was evident in town halls, community gatherings, and online forums, where individuals from diverse backgrounds united to discuss pressing issues and advocate for change.

I just wanted the argument to stop. ______________________________

Not managed. Just — there. New. Unexpected. Worth paying attention to.

If I can survive here without being killed or attacked, that would be more than what I deserve I guess. No more expectations. No more feelings. No more HOPE!

I nodded rapidly, "I am listening to everything that you have said but I'm only trying to still figure out how this impacts me. Does it mean that my value would suddenly increase in their eyes or it is going to decrease? I need to know what exactly it is." "Obviously not. I have every right to become even as nonchalant as you are but I want you to prove them wrong that you can become better than they expect you to ever turn out, yet you are not helping matters." I knew that it was going to become an issue of me being a little bit draggy instead of him tackling the hate that I was facing from his people. I shouldn't expect him to treat me better than my ex-husband did.

Looking forward to your support and encouragement. Fingers crossed 🤞

Okay, I can play along. "Okay class have fun with Mr. Zandoval and with your history class, thank you again sir for the time." "No problem, sir." Says our professor "Okay class, fun is over, please get your textbooks and turn them to page 132." "Aww" everyone reacted inside the room. Where's the fun in that? "Don't expect me to go easy on each one of you, especially you Mr. Zandoval. We go for quality education here and not hierarchy, no offense towards your family. But I doubt that your family is like that."

"You didn't scream, why?" "Because I wasn't startled. You know, last night while I laid down to sleep, I realized that I was probably going to keep seeing you for a while and if I didn't expect you, your presence was always going to startle me. So as of today, I'm always going to expect you." "You know that it's only when there's an expectation that there'll be disappointment right?" "Yes I do. And if you're trying to tell me that I would be disappointed if you don't show up when I expect you, I'm sorry to disappoint you but no. I will even be happy that you didn't show up."