The mid-year academic awards ceremony brought a surprising moment. Mia was called up to receive an honor for her art portfolio, while Liam was recognized for his essay on social justice.
As they stood side by side on the stage, the applause felt like a celebration not just of their individual achievements, but of their journey together.
Later that evening, they reflected on how far they'd come—from rivalry to friendship, to something deeper yet undefined.
It was a turning point. They both realized that whatever the future held, they had found in each other a partner—not just in school, but in life.