A Contract Marriage with My Professor

CHAPTER 1:

JILLIAN'S POV

"BARTOLOME, JILLIAN," I recited my name aloud as I scanned the list posted on the classroom wall.

I nearly choked on my bubble gum when I saw the results of the entrance examination for Gardon University. It was one of the most prestigious institutions in New York City. And guess what? A simple girl from the province like me had actually passed.

"Congrats, Jillian! You're so smart!" my classmates cheered. They were all celebrating my achievement, but I could hardly believe it myself; it felt like a dream.

"Thanks, guys! Congratulations to you, too. You all did your best," I replied with a wide smile.

I headed home floating on air, eager to share the news. I knew my parents would be incredibly proud of the scholarship I had secured.

"Ma?! Pa?!" I shouted, calling out for them. I headed straight to the farm to break the news. My parents were farmers, and it warmed my heart knowing how much they had sacrificed to support my education.

"Oh, Jillian? Didn't I tell you not to come out here? You'll get mud on your uniform," my mother said, looking concerned about my white blouse.

"Mama, please. It's my last day of high school, so it's fine if it gets a little dirty," I answered, excitement still bubbling in my chest.

"Your daughter has quite a smile on her face, Lourdes. I think she has something to tell you that you'll love," my uncle remarked, as if sensing what was on my mind.

"You're right, Uncle. I do! I got a SCHOLARSHIP TO GARDON UNIVERSITY IN NEW YORK!!!" I announced. I felt like my voice echoed across the entire field.

"Really? You passed? Does that mean you're going to study in the city?" Mom asked, clearly bursting with pride.

"Yes, Ma. I'll be studying there for free. Best of all, I'll receive a generous allowance because of the scholarship. You and Papa won't have to struggle to put me through a University anymore," I said, beaming. I saw a tear escape the corner of my mother's eye-tears of pure joy.

"Me and your father are so proud of you. Study hard there, Jillian. And no boyfriends yet," she reminded me.

Papa approached and gave my shoulder a gentle pat. "Don't worry, Jillian. When your mom and I have time, we'll visit you in New York. Be careful there. Tell me immediately if anyone tries to court you, and I'll have my machete ready," Papa joked.

"Pa, Ma, you're being silly. I won't get a boyfriend there, I'm not even that pretty. Besides, the students at that University are all rich-no one will probably even look at me," I pouted. That was the first worry that hit me when I thought about the big city.

"Get that thought out of your head, Jillian. I'm telling you now, you are beautiful. You have a classic beauty. So don't ever say you're ugly, because it isn't true," Mom said, boosting my