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Chapter 16 - CHAPTER 16

After the Storm

The laughter and whispers died down, leaving a heavy silence in the room.

Jimmy caught Nelly's eye from across the table. After a moment, he stood and quietly called her name.

> "Nelly… come with me for a walk."

She nodded, slipping past the curious and judgmental stares.

Outside, the night air was cool and calm. The quiet was a balm after the storm inside.

Jimmy took a deep breath, his voice soft.

> "I know you just found out, but I want you to know how I ended up here. My parents died when I was young. Mrs. Benson took me in—made me part of the family."

He looked down, fidgeting with his hands.

> "I grew up wanting to be someone they could be proud of. But sometimes… I feel like I'm still the outsider."

Nelly reached out, touching his arm gently.

> "You're not alone in that."

He smiled sadly, gathering courage.

> "There's something else. Something I've been holding back."

His eyes searched hers.

> "I like you. More than a friend. I've liked you for a long time."

Nelly's heart fluttered, but she quickly smiled and shifted.

> "Jimmy… I appreciate you telling me. But after everything—school, the family, Mrs. Grace—I need you with me for what's coming next. Can we focus on that for now?"

Jimmy nodded, understanding but disappointed.

> "I'm here. Whatever you need."

They stood together in silence, the night wrapping around them like a promise.

BACK TO SCHOOL

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The school is hosting a major competition — it could be a debate, quiz bowl, science challenge, or talent contest. The prize is prestigious, and everyone's

Jimmy is chosen to represent the school because of his leadership and reputation.

He gets paired with Nelly and one other guy (maybe a class rival or someone with a questionable reputation).

The tension is high between the trio — especially with the history and jealousy involved.

Julie was actually present.

As they work together, there are sparks of conflict, but also moments of unexpected cooperation.

The audience is large — teachers, students, even some Benson family members come to watch.

When the results are announced, something surprising happens — maybe the underdog team wins, or a shocking revelation is made during the event that changes how everyone sees Nelly or Jimmy.

This moment could open doors or create new enemies.

---

The school auditorium buzzed with excitement as students and teachers packed the seats, eager for the annual Inter-Class Challenge to begin.

Jimmy adjusted his tie nervously backstage. When his name was called to represent the school, a mixture of cheers and whispers followed.

He scanned the list of team members assigned to him: Nelly, himself, and Omar — a cocky classmate known for stirring trouble.

Nelly caught Jimmy's eye, offering a small, determined smile.

Omar rolled his eyes. "Great. Just what I needed."

As the competition progressed, the three clashed and clashed — ideas, strategies, even personalities.

But when the final round arrived, they had formed an uneasy alliance.

The judges — including the principal, several teachers, and even a few prominent parents — leaned forward.

And then,when the results were announced,

Jimmy after collecting the award he told everyone he was going to pass down the award to Nelly

And the crowd cheers shouting and screaming for his good heart . Jimmy looking up to omar if he's going to let go of the award also fortunately he did and the crowd were happy and most people were jealous.

Just when Nelly mounted on the stage to collect the award they was a loud gunshot

Yes.. someone shot Jimmy.

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