Chapter 50With the SkillBridge competition behind them, a new chapter began for Jamal and his team. It wasn’t just about waiting for results—it was about reclaiming their lives and figuring out their next steps. The tension that had loomed over their meetings was finally beginning to lift.At their usual café, the group gathered, sipping on drinks and exchanging ideas. This time, the conversation felt lighter, filled with hope rather than worry.Rachel leaned back in her chair, grinning. “It’s strange not having to think about presentations or deadlines anymore. We might actually get to breathe for a change.”Alex chuckled. “Speak for yourself. I’m still recovering from those all-nighters.”Zoe nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. “It was worth it, though. No matter what happens, we’ve done something incredible.”Jamal listened quietly, his gaze flickering between his friends. He wanted to share their sense of relief, but the unease in his gut wouldn’t let him. Marcus’s shadow

Chapter 52The buzz of high school finals filled the air at Lincoln High. For Jamal, this was a chance to prove not just his intellect but his resilience. After months of juggling academics, business ventures, and conflicts, the end of the semester was finally in sight.“Finals week,” Rachel said as she slid into her seat beside Jamal in the library. “The words every student dreads.”Jamal chuckled. “I’m just ready to get it over with.”Alex joined them, carrying a stack of textbooks. “We’ve got a physics study group later. You coming?”Jamal nodded. “Wouldn’t miss it. I need all the help I can get.”That evening, Jamal sat at the kitchen table, books spread out in front of him. His mom walked in, carrying a tray of snacks.“You’ve been at this for hours,” she said, placing the tray beside him. “Take a break, Jamal.”He smiled. “I will, Mom. Just need to finish this chapter.”She sat down across from him, her expression softening. “I’m proud of you, you know. Balancing school, your bu

Chapter 54 The sun was barely up when Jamal woke to the sound of his alarm clock. Today was the day—grade collection day at Lincoln High. For weeks, he and his friends had poured everything into finals, and now the results would be handed out. Along with them came the final decision on their college applications. “Jamal, breakfast is ready!” his mom called from the kitchen. Jamal quickly threw on a hoodie and jeans, grabbed his backpack, and headed downstairs. His younger sister Maya was already seated at the table, munching on cereal. “Think you made the list?” Maya teased, grinning at him over her spoon. “I hope so,” Jamal replied, grabbing a slice of toast. Their dad, folded his newspaper and looked at Jamal with a reassuring smile. “Whatever happens, remember you’ve worked hard. That’s what matters.” His mom chimed in, placing a glass of orange juice in front of him. “And don’t forget, this is just the start of something bigger. We’re proud of you no matter what.” J

Chapter 56The Davenport house was alive with energy, laughter, and the smell of food. Balloons and streamers adorned the living room, and the table was laden with snacks and drinks. It was a farewell party—a celebration of endings and beginnings. Jamal, Leah, Zoe, Rachel, and Alex had gathered for one last night together before college life scattered them across the country.Jamal stood by the kitchen counter, watching his friends with a mix of gratitude and melancholy. Zoe was in the middle of an impromptu dance-off with Alex, their laughter filling the room. Leah and Rachel sat on the couch, reminiscing about their high school days. Jamal's parents moved around, making sure everyone felt at home.Victor, Jamal’s father, clapped a hand on his son’s shoulder. “You’ve got a good group here, son. Don’t ever take that for granted.”Jamal nodded. “I won’t, Dad. They’ve been with me through everything.”---The Heartfelt GoodbyeAs the night wore on, the group gathered in the living room,

Chapter 58The morning sun illuminated Columbia University’s campus, buzzing with the energy of freshmen embarking on their new journey. Jamal stood at the entrance of the quad, taking in the expansive view of Gothic and modern buildings that blended history with progress. He'd already gotten lost twice trying to find his first orientation session, but that was all part of the adventure, right?“You good, bro?” a familiar voice broke through his thoughts. Jamal turned to see his roommate, Ethan, grinning.“Yeah, just trying to get my bearings,” Jamal said, running a hand through his hair. “This place is bigger than I thought.”Ethan chuckled. “Wait till we hit the lunch crowd. You’ll be dodging people left and right.”Jamal grinned. “I’ve already figured out the trick: walk slow, let them pass, and pretend you know where you’re going.”Ethan laughed. “Not bad. You’ll fit right in.”They walked toward the student union, the heart of campus activity, where students were signing up for c