The weeks following the successful workshop marked a new chapter for FutureNet. The café had become a local hub for tech enthusiasts, students, and curious neighbors alike. James couldn't walk into the café without seeing a group of people typing away on computers or sharing ideas. It was everything he had dreamed of and more.
As the days slipped by, James took some time to reflect on his investments. Sitting in his room one quiet evening, he pulled out the notebook Lily had gifted him for his birthday. Flipping through its pages, he found the neatly organized records of his stock purchases. His $10,000 capital had been split strategically across several companies he remembered from his future knowledge.
---
Checking His Investments
James opened the folder containing the printouts of his stock portfolio, which he had been tracking religiously. His investment in Apple shares had already shown signs of growth, and his choice of a few undervalued tech companies was beginning to pay off.
"Apple's on the rise," he muttered to himself, jotting down notes. "If they continue this trend, it'll be worth a lot more by the time I turn 18."
Tommy popped his head into the room. "You talking to yourself again, little genius?"
James laughed, setting the papers aside. "Just checking on my investments. They're doing pretty well."
Tommy walked in, sitting on the edge of the bed. "You've got a good head for this stuff. Just don't forget to take a break every now and then. You're still a kid, you know."
James nodded, appreciating his brother's concern. "I know, Tommy. But every move I make now sets up our future. I just want to make sure I don't miss anything."
---
Family Time
Despite his busy schedule, James always made time for his parents. One evening, the family sat down together for dinner. Margaret had made her famous meatloaf, and Robert was recounting a story from the auto shop.
"You should've seen the look on the guy's face when I fixed his engine in under an hour," Robert said with a chuckle. "He thought it was going to take days."
James smiled, listening intently. He had always admired his father's work ethic and ability to solve problems. It was something he hoped to emulate in his own ventures.
"How's the café doing?" Margaret asked, passing James a plate.
"Really well," James replied. "The workshop brought in a lot of new customers. We're even thinking about offering regular classes."
"That's wonderful, sweetheart," Margaret said. "Just make sure you don't overwork yourself. School's starting soon, and you'll need to focus on that too."
"I will, Mom," James promised.
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Moments with Lily and Friends
Lily had been James's anchor throughout the summer. One afternoon, they met at the park, enjoying the warm sunshine and the sound of kids playing nearby.
"You've been so busy with the café," Lily said, leaning against a tree. "Do you ever stop to breathe?"
James laughed. "Not really. But spending time with you helps."
She smiled, handing him a small basket of snacks she had packed. "Well, you've got me to make sure you take a break now and then."
Matthew joined them later, carrying a basketball. "Alright, enough sitting around. Let's play a quick game!"
The three of them spent the next hour playing basketball, laughing and joking like regular teenagers. For a moment, James forgot about the pressures of his growing responsibilities.
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Back to School
As the summer days dwindled, the reality of school loomed closer. On the last day of summer break, James found himself in the café, going over the final numbers for the month.
"Ready for school tomorrow?" Tommy asked, leaning against the counter.
"Not really," James admitted with a smile. "It's going to be weird going back after everything we've accomplished this summer."
"Don't forget, you're still a kid," Tommy said, clapping him on the shoulder. "Enjoy school while you can. The business will still be here when you get home."
James nodded, appreciating his brother's advice. As much as he wanted to keep pushing forward, he knew Tommy was right.
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Planning Ahead
That night, as James packed his bag for school, he took one last look at his notebook. Flipping to a blank page, he wrote down a new goal:
Balance school, the café, and investments. Keep growing without losing sight of the present.
As he placed the notebook back in his drawer, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The summer had been transformative, but he knew this was just the beginning.
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Suggestions for the Next Chapter
1. "New Challenges at School": James navigates the complexities of balancing his schoolwork, business, and personal relationships, especially as his peers start noticing his success.
2. "A Growing Bond with Lily": The focus shifts to James and Lily's relationship as they face the challenges of maintaining a romantic connection amidst their busy lives.
3. "Unexpected Competition": James discovers a new internet café opening nearby, forcing him to think creatively to maintain FutureNet's edge in the market.