By the time James started first grade, he had grown adept at blending in. He played the part of an ordinary six-year-old with ease—wide-eyed, curious, and eager to learn—while carefully concealing the advanced knowledge simmering beneath his innocent demeanor. The first day of school was both exciting and strategic. For James, it wasn't just about learning the curriculum; it was an opportunity to study people, forge connections, and identify opportunities that could change the trajectory of his second life.
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Meeting Matthew Wallace
James's elementary school was in the heart of Astoria, surrounded by neat rows of modest homes and local shops. On his first day, he was assigned a seat next to Matthew Wallace, a slightly shy boy with an air of quiet confidence. Matthew had sandy blonde hair, sharp blue eyes, and wore clothes that, while simple, hinted at a family with means.
At recess, James saw an opportunity to engage. While most of the kids were kicking a soccer ball around, Matthew stood to the side, quietly observing.
"Hey," James said, walking over. "Why aren't you playing?"
Matthew shrugged. "I'm not very good at soccer."
James grinned. "Neither am I. Wanna hang out?"
The boys spent the rest of recess talking. James quickly learned that Matthew's father, Richard Wallace, was a local real estate developer. Matthew mentioned it casually, but to James, this was a revelation. Real estate, he knew, would boom in the coming decades, especially in a city like New York. Befriending Matthew could be more than just a childhood bond—it could be a bridge to invaluable resources.
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Building Trust
Over the next few weeks, James made it a point to become Matthew's closest friend. They sat together during lunch, partnered for group projects, and spent afternoons at each other's homes. James was careful, however, never to push too hard. He genuinely enjoyed Matthew's company and wanted the friendship to feel natural.
One Saturday, Margaret dropped James off at the Wallace family home for a playdate. As James stepped inside, he couldn't help but notice the difference in atmosphere. The Wallace house was larger than his own, with polished hardwood floors, tasteful furniture, and walls adorned with framed photos of family vacations and professional achievements.
"Nice place," James said as they climbed the stairs to Matthew's room.
Matthew shrugged. "Yeah, my dad's always working. He says he's building something big."
James filed the comment away for later.
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A Glimpse of Opportunity
During another visit, James got his first glimpse of Richard Wallace. The man was tall and imposing, with a firm handshake and a booming voice that filled the room. He spoke to James kindly, asking about school and his family.
"So, James," Richard said, sitting in an armchair with a cup of coffee. "What does your dad do?"
"He owns an auto repair shop," James replied, keeping his tone cheerful and unassuming. "He works really hard."
Richard nodded. "That's good. Hard work pays off. Tell your dad if he ever needs help with anything, he can give me a call."
James smiled. "Thanks, Mr. Wallace. I'll tell him."
The interaction was brief, but it confirmed what James suspected: Richard Wallace was a man of influence. If James played his cards right, he could learn from him—or even partner with him someday.
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The Library and the Plan
James spent evenings at the local library, reading everything he could about real estate and urban development. He learned about the principles of supply and demand, the importance of location, and how small investments in property could yield massive returns over time.
He also began planting subtle seeds with Matthew.
"Your dad's job sounds cool," James said one day as they worked on a class project. "Do you think he'll teach you about it when you're older?"
Matthew shrugged. "Maybe. He's always busy, though."
James nodded thoughtfully. "Well, if he ever needs help, maybe we could work for him someday. I bet we'd be good at it."
Matthew laughed. "You're always thinking ahead, James."
James smiled. "Someone has to, right?"
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A Test of Loyalty
Their friendship deepened one afternoon when Matthew got into an argument with another boy at school. The boy, a notorious bully, had pushed Matthew during a game of kickball.
"Leave him alone," James said firmly, stepping between them.
"What are you gonna do about it?" the bully sneered.
James didn't flinch. "You want to fight? Fine. But I'll tell the teacher everything, and you'll get in trouble. Your choice."
The bully hesitated before walking away, muttering under his breath.
"Thanks," Matthew said, clearly shaken.
"No problem," James replied. "That's what friends are for."
From that day on, Matthew trusted James completely.
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The Bigger Picture
By the end of the school year, James had established himself as a loyal friend and a resourceful problem solver. His bond with Matthew was strong, and he had subtly ingratiated himself with the Wallace family.
For James, the friendship wasn't just about securing future opportunities—it was about building genuine connections. He knew that wealth and success meant little without people to share them with. Matthew was more than a potential ally; he was a friend who reminded James of the simple joys of childhood, even as he plotted a future far beyond his years.
As James lay in bed that night, he thought about the path he was on. He was still a child, but his mind was already racing ahead. With Matthew by his side and the Wallace family in his orbit, he felt one step closer to the life he was determined to create.
"This time," he thought, "I won't let anything slip through my fingers."
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To be continued...