Everyone was excited about the new announcement made on the first period which was a homeroom.The announcement reads as follows, "All students are to come to an auditorium right away".Over the intercom, Principal Hayes' voice was sounding like him. This excited Aria and Sophie.
The girls gave out a puzzled look to each other and packed up their bags.
"What now?"Perhaps it's about the inter-school competition," Sophie said in a low tone and with excitement. Soon enough, the auditorium filled as students arrived chatting about various unconfirmed-but-believable things. Aria and Sophie both sat in the middle as they did not want to sit too front row.
Principal Hayes approached the podium, quieting the room.
"Good morning students," she said, and adjusted her glasses. Ridgewood High's principally Hayes announced an Inter-School Excellence Challenge in her announcement in winter.
She started off with by saying "As many of you know our Ridgewood high school has been selected for an Inter School Excellence Challenge. The room celebrated with cheers." This year, the team will be lead by two students.
These people have been carefully selected according to their unique abilities and... "Aria thought she might be getting somewhere." She had been working hard throughout the year at academics and activities. After disclosing my thoughts on Aria, I noted, "Bronwyn's work would be wonderful little addition to her college applications." And now, our very first team captain," said Principal Hayes smilingly, "is Aria Bennett. Applause broke out after Aria's name was announced.
Sophie nudged her with a smile. "Told you!Aria waved at the audience while a slight blush crept on her face.
It was her time, and she was going to make it happen. "And her partner…" The principal stopped for a beat. Where have I heard this name before?" Aria's heart dropped.
The applause died down, and whispers erupted all around. She whirled her head around the room until she spotted Ethan.
At the back of the auditorium was a wall and leaning against it was a boy who looked totally unfazed. When their eyes met, he gave her a mocking salute. "No way," Aria murmured under her breath and sank back into her seat. "Looks like the universe is having a laugh," Sophie whispered to her, stifling a giggle.
Later that day Aria barged into Principal Hayes' office after lunch with her fists clenched. "Principal Hayes, I want to speak to you about the competition," she said, her tone tight. The Principal looked up from her desk, smiling kindly. "Ah, Aria. "I expected you." "With all respect, why him?Aria inquired, her exasperation starting to brew. I've worked hard to earn this opportunity, Ethan Carter? "He's the last person who should be leading anything." Principal Hayes sighed, motioning for Aria to sit. I understand your concerns Aria but hear me out. Ethan has great capabilities; all he needs is an opportunity. "I think the two of you can bring out the best in each other."Aria shook her head. "We're polar opposites. He takes nothing seriously!"Maybe that's where you will balance one another out," said the Principal. "Although she could not contest this, she could not help but wonder why Oscar was so involved with this competition and why he cared so much about her winning." "Fine," she said reluctantly.
But don't blame me if you lose."---
First Meeting That day, Aria will be meeting Ethan in the library. He was already there. He sat in a chair with his feet up on the table and read a comic. Aria stated as she dropped her notebook on the table with a loud thunk.
Ethan lazily looked up. "Good evening to you too, partner." "Let's get one thing straight," Aria said, her arms crossed. This contest means a lot to me, and I will not let you ruin it. You are going to show up, put in the work, and actually be a team player."Ethan raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Relax, Bennett. "I am not the one to ruin your little dream" Aria replied, "It's not about me" "It's about supporting our school and showing we are capable of handling this stuff." said Ethan.
You do genuinely care about this, don't you?"Yes, I most certainly do." said Aria. "This competition could change everything for me."For a second, Ethan's smirk vanished as he fell into thought. It returned just as quickly as it left. "Alright, Bennett. You have strike a deal. I'll play nice... "for the meantime." Aria frowned and focused her eyes. The expression "I'll believe it when I see it" was repeatedly used in conversations.
As we discussed ideas, I felt the tension. Aria felt that working with Ethan is going to be the most frustrating thing she'll ever do in her life. But in her heart a small part was curious.