I loved her against reason, against promise, against hope, against happiness, against all discouragement that could be. The words of Charles Dickens resonated deeply within Katia. That particular quote—one of her favorite literary passages—held a significance beyond mere appreciation for classic literature. It represented Pip's unwavering devotion to Estella, a love that defied all obstacles and opinions. It was the kind of unconditional affection Katia yearned for, a man who would cherish her regardless of societal judgment.
Unfortunately, she found such devotion only within the pages of novels. Perhaps such men existed in the real world, but Katia hadn't encountered one. She was often too consumed by her work, and frankly, feared that a romantic relationship would hinder her progress.
Katia Rivers began her career as a literature professor at Columbia University, one of the most prestigious institutions in New York. Leaving such a position—especially with tenure secured after just three years—seemed unreasonable to many.
Books had always been her sanctuary, a passion ignited in her youth. She devoured everything from *War and Peace* to *The Great Gatsby*, losing herself in their narratives.
Many wondered why Katia would abandon such a comfortable life.
One year, Columbia sent a select group of professors to Wakanda to conduct a seminar on American literature. However, Katia wasn’t presenting to students or academics. Instead, she found herself addressing a room full of government officials, culminating in a special audience with Wakanda’s highest authority.
“Ms. Rivers, your ability to dissect an author’s structure and style is truly remarkable.” A voice boomed, and Katia turned to face King T’Challa himself.
Instinctively, she offered a curtsey, an unfamiliar gesture given she’d never been in the presence of royalty. “It’s an honor to know the King of Wakanda is listening to my seminar. I suspect few can say that.”
“Few can analyze literature from such a unique perspective.” T’Challa complimented her, a blush rising to her cheeks.
A man emerged from behind T’Challa—presumably a bodyguard—and whispered a directive into his ear. T’Challa turned back to Katia, offering a polite smile before excusing himself.
“It was a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Rivers.”
He began to walk away, but Katia called out before he could disappear. “It’s Katia.”
Confusion flickered across his face.
“My name is Katia. If we were to meet again, I’d prefer to be addressed by my first name. ‘Ms. Rivers’ makes me sound old.”
A smile curved his lips, and he seemed to register the preference. This time, as he walked away for good, Katia couldn’t shake the feeling that she wanted to stay in Wakanda. Not as a professor of literature, but for something else entirely. She couldn’t yet define what that “something else” was, but she knew she craved change.
She wanted to live up to greater expectations.