All the cheering after those words from the principal had sustained me from certain misery. I just stood there in well-ironed clothes in a stalemate with a girl. Drawn in by her cleverness, how does a guy beat that which he admires?

It was time for the speeches, and I had written something special but had to leave parts of it out now due to not being the number one student. Wish I could rewrite it with that in mind, but that was simply not me.

Principal: If all students can be quiet for a second and listen to the words of these two who have outdone themselves this year academically. Shareen Boughan, can you please join me at the podium?

She did not even have notes with her, straight from the heart. I quietly put my notes away.

"Thank you Principal for the opportunity to speak to my fellow students.

To every teacher, thank you for the countless hours and chances you give us. Without you, nothing is possible. I would have wished to be a teacher myself, but I aspire but am unable to teach. Despite my personal life being in shambles, I focused on my education as a girl. Every learner here today does not have to forget what is happening at home and smiles at us here as if we do not face similar situations, including education.

I vow to uplift the word girl, for this is the very foundation of a woman. May we not only prosper in education but in retaking our rightful place in this world. May we conquer our deepest fears and set an example for future generations. Thank you everyone. I look at you as educators who teach us the ways of this life so that we may overcome," she said.

She was confident and outspoken. I was speechless at the sight of her beauty, but I had so many questions now.

"Give another round of applause for a lady with a bright future and now last but not least, Simon Anderson," the principal exclaimed.

All the students were cheering her on, putting more pressure on me.

"Thank you, principal, and every teacher that dedicated their lives to teaching us. To every student, you can also stand up here with hard work. Also to the students on this stage today I congratulate you, may you achieve more.

I have learned an important lesson here today about life. Be a hard worker but also a creator of many plans, even though they might all fail. It is the passing of time while you implement those plans that bring you to your answer. Thank you and do not forget my name when it is time to vote for head boy," I said.

Students cheered and screamed but I do not know if it was for me or not. Since school is about to end for the day. There goes that siren again.

I gave up becoming a rapper early in my teenage years. For one specific reason, I had no immediate comeback.

As everyone ran out of the hall, the principal called me back, asking me to go to his office. There will be a lunch which was organized for the prestigious students and teachers. I stood outside and saw everyone rushing to the gate. My friends are probably somewhere in there. I wish I was in there right now as well.

Turned my back on the main gate and started walking to the principal office. I did not eat this morning because of all the excitement. If only I could see the future, I would plan better. Entering the principal office, a place filled with the achievements of previous students hanging on the walls. Like an art museum, all the colors matched with the desk. I do not even know how it got through the door.

Assembled inside, I guess. The place to come for inspiration, a room full of pictures of winners. I wish they could tell me their stories of overcoming. I might just learn a few valuable lessons. While looking around, my favorite teacher walked up to me.

"Simon, a magnificent speech you shared today. The reason I continue to teach is that I meet young people who possess extraordinary gifts that just need a nudge or a push in the right direction," Phillip Alexander said.

"Coming from you, it means a lot. Thank you.

I, however, expected to win and not feeling well at this moment," I said.

"I understand but remember this day, you will achieve many things and I can assure you there will be competition out there. You will either perceive it as healthy or unhealthy competition. All up to you. Cheer up and enjoy today," Phillip Alexander said.

"Sir, you are right. How about a chess game after this just to get a win in for the day?" I said.

As he was about to reply, Shareen waved at me from across the room. I did not catch his reply as he walked away.

Distracted by the wink of an eye. Truly a sight for sore eyes as I approached her. Imagine looking for someone and when you finally meet them, you do not know what to say or do next. Quite the predicament I found myself in. She got up the moment I got to the table with a big smile. It is one thing to be beautiful and smart but to have manners as well just blows my mind. This was my chance to ask her as many questions as I could. I might not get another chance.

"What is your deal? Where did you go? I searched for you," I exclaimed.

"Relax! I didn't know I kept a seat for a lawyer. Why were you looking for me? Did I perhaps take something that belongs to you? Now you have made me a lawyer as well," Shareen said.

"Uhm, no, I kind of just wanted to continue our conversation we had," I replied.

"Oh, well, here I am. You don't mind me eating while you talk."

 Started picking up something on her plate.

"Forgot to eat this morning. I promise I won't reply with food in my mouth," she said.

"I am also starving. You might disappear again, so I have to multitask. Just tell me one thing and we can enjoy lunch in peace. Where have you been all this time?" I asked.

"Fair enough. If you must know. Sometimes I do not attend classes because I am so far ahead with the curriculum," she responded.

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