As Mr. Brooks continued to enlighten the senior class about
the intricacies of college applications, Julian leaned in to whisper to Ethan,
"Hey, have you finally decided on which college you're attending?" His voice
was barely audible over the rustling of notes and murmured conversations.
Ethan's gaze remained fixed on Mr. Brooks, but his eyes
flicked momentarily to Julian before responding. He took a small pause,
collecting his thoughts. "I don't know yet," he admitted, his voice equally
hushed. "I'm still debating between some schools in Hingston."
Ethan's gaze shifted to Asher, drawing him into the
conversation. "What about you, Asher? Have you made up your mind?"
Asher's eyes drifted from the notes he was scribbling, a
look of momentary confusion crossing his face. "Uhm, what?" he asked, his voice
slightly louder than necessary.
Ethan chuckled softly. "Julian asked which college you're
applying to," he clarified.
Asher's expression transformed, a resolute glint in his eye.
"Oh, that. I haven't thought about it much, but I'm definitely choosing
somewhere far from this place." His tone conveyed a deep-seated desire to
escape.
Julian raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Anywhere in
particular?" he asked, his curiosity piqued.
Asher's shrug was nonchalant. "Somewhere with a real city
vibe, maybe Clacton or Everwood. Anywhere but here."
Ethan nodded thoughtfully. "I get it. A fresh start can be
tempting."
Julian's gaze drifted back to Mr. Brooks, his mind whirling
with thoughts of college and the future. The prospect of leaving Lincoln High
behind was both exhilarating and terrifying.
Julian's thoughts lingered on his friends' conversation, the
weight of their impending separation settling heavily on his mind. He hadn't
fully grasped the reality of their divergence until now. Ethan and Asher had
been his pillars, his guiding lights in navigating the complex social landscape
of Lincoln High. Without them, school had been unbearable, especially with
Alex's constant bullying.
The thought of being separated from his friends sent a pang
of anxiety through Julian's chest. How would he survive without Ethan's quick
wit and Asher's unwavering loyalty? They had shared laughter, tears, and
countless memories together.
"Hey, what about you, Julian? What college are you eyeing?"
Asher's voice cut through Julian's reverie, pulling him back to the present.
Julian blinked, his gaze refocusing on his friends. "Uh,
I...I haven't decided yet," he stammered, his uncertainty evident.
Ethan's brow furrowed in concern. "You've got plenty of
time, Jules. We'll help you figure it out."
Asher nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we'll make sure you're set
for wherever you choose."
Julian forced a smile, grateful for their reassurance. But
the nagging fear lingered – what if they drifted apart? What if their paths
never crossed again?
Mr. Brooks' words faded into the background as Julian's mind
began to wander once more. College, once a distant dream, now loomed as a
daunting reality. Would he find new friends, new allies, or would he be lost in
a sea of unfamiliar faces?
As the assembly drew to a close, Julian felt a sense of
unease settle within him. The future, once bright and promising, now seemed
uncertain, filled with questions and doubts.
"Well, either way, I do plan on building up my CGPA, making
it high enough so I can apply for scholarships," Ethan declared, determination
etched on his face.
"That's right," Asher chimed in, "and if you do well on the
sports team, Ethan, you can also apply for sports scholarships." Asher turned
to Julian, a warm smile spreading across his face. "And I'm sure Julian's
academic performance will get him any scholarship he wants."
Julian's cheeks flushed slightly at Asher's praise. "You
guys are making me feel pressured," he joked, attempting to downplay his
academic achievements.
Ethan chuckled. "Pressure's good, Jules. It keeps you on
your toes."
Asher nodded vigorously. "Besides, we know you've got this.
You're one of the smartest guys in our class."
Julian's smile widened, feeling grateful for his friends'
unwavering support. Their encouragement buoyed him, reinforcing his resolve to
excel.
As they continued discussing their plans and aspirations,
Julian felt a sense of camaraderie wash over him. Together, they would face the
challenges of college applications, scholarships, and an uncertain future.
Mr. Brooks' voice cut through their conversation, signaling
the end of the assembly. "Remember, seniors, your future begins now. Seize
every opportunity, and make your mark."
The hall erupted into applause as Julian, Ethan, and Asher
exchanged determined glances.
Mrs. Russell glided onto the stage, her presence commanding
attention, as Mr. Brooks concluded his inspiring speech. "Thank you, Mr.
Brooks," she said, her voice warm and sincere. "We really appreciate your wise
words. You've heard it all, students – the challenges, the opportunities, and
the importance of seizing your future."
Her gaze swept across the sea of faces, her eyes sparkling
with encouragement. "I hope you'll take this semester seriously, make
thoughtful plans for your future, and strive for excellence. Remember, your
choices today will shape your tomorrow."
Pausing for emphasis, Mrs. Russell continued, "And don't
forget, the post of Student President is open. I encourage you all to
participate in the electoral process and vote for your favourite candidate to
lead you. This is your chance to shape the student council and make your voices
heard."
The hall erupted into a loud, enthusiastic applause as Mrs.
Russell stepped down from the podium, her dignified smile acknowledging the
students' appreciation.
"Thank you, students," she said, her voice carrying above
the applause. "I wish you all the best of luck in your endeavours. Remember,
this semester is crucial – make it count."
As the applause faded, the students began to stir, gathering
their belongings and whispering to one another. The principal's words had
ignited a spark within them, a sense of purpose and responsibility.
The hall's intercom system crackled to life, and a voice
announced, "Students, please exit the hall in an orderly fashion. Your teachers
will provide further instructions on the next steps."
With a collective murmur, the students rose from their
seats, filing out of the hall in a steady stream. Julian, Ethan, and Asher fell
into step, their conversation flowing easily.
"What do you think about running for Student President?"
Asher asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief, as they walked out of the hall.
Ethan snorted, his expression incredulous. "You think I'm
crazy? Clarkson would never let me win." His tone conveyed the unspoken
understanding of Clarkson's ruthless ambition.
Asher chuckled, his grin persistent. "You never know, Ethan.
Stranger things have happened."
Ethan turned to Julian, seeking validation. "Yeah, stranger
things happen, but mine is near impossible. I mean, Clarkson has been coveting
this position for a while now. Help me out, Julian?"
Julian considered Ethan's concern before responding. "True,
but you still have a shot at this. You're captain of the soccer team, so you
already have a strong support base. Plus, you're not bad academically."
Julian's logical argument was tempered with encouragement.
Ethan shook his head, his resistance evident. "C'mon, not
you too, Julian."
Asher jumped back into the conversation, his enthusiasm
undeterred. "You see, Julian and I are on the same page. You can try for this,
who knows? Maybe you'll be the leader of this country one day, and remember
this conversation as the spark that ignited your journey." Asher's words were
laced with conviction.
Ethan's expression turned resolute. "Well, I'm not running
for president, and that's final. I have other things to worry about, and I
don't plan on adding more to my list." His tone left no room for debate.
The conversation fizzled out as they approached their
classroom. "Well, let's get to class," Ethan said, his voice a subtle dismissal
of the presidential aspirations.