At the library during break, Nick approached Elizabeth, who was seated with a book in her lap.
"Nick! You surprised me," Elizabeth smiled.
"I thought I'd join you during the long break," he replied. "Earlier, you mentioned something about joining the military to chase down clues about that puzzle book and the relics…"
"I didn't think you took me that seriously! Do you even know anything about the military?"
"My step-uncle is a commander. So, joining wouldn't be too complicated for me. I'll wait for you at the military camp after graduation."
"Wait—where exactly is this camp located?"
"In the central region. It's a national base with branches like the navy and air force in other parts of the country. If you want to specialize, you get transferred."
"I want to get closer to the puzzle book, but I still have no clue where it might be. It'd be of help if we had more leads before choosing a camp."
"Well, those nocturnal creatures reacted near Tiffy's place the other day, right? Maybe there's a secret society nearby?"
"There's a protected forest in our zone. That might explain it. What kind of military base is close to us?"
"The nearby camp is Navy—because of the ocean. Should we consider joining the navy, then?"
"Maybe. Especially if those nocturnal creatures are linked to the area."
Nick paused. Then he gently reached for Elizabeth's hand.
"Elizabeth, I know this is the same spot where you once opened up to me and Tiffy. You even promised to stay out of our relationship. But I'd be lying if I said I'm not worried about you. These missions—magic, hybrids, the military—it's dangerous. I just want us to stick together and protect each other. As friends. I can't promise you more than that... I'm still with Tiffy."
"I appreciate that, Nick. Honestly, I wish I could return the kindness. I'm sorry about how things went down—with Tiffy's removal from the cheer squad and everything. I understand why Teacher Sally made that decision. I'm not going to interfere with your relationship anymore. I respect your space. I've got my own goals to chase—my career, my hobbies. Your relationship is safe from me. In fact, I wish you and Tiffy the best. Maybe even marriage someday."
"Thanks for understanding."
"You're welcome."
"Wanna grab some fruit?"
"Fruit?"
"I brought some cashew nuts this morning."
"Now that's tempting!"
They walked toward Nick's locker, laughing as he shared the nuts. Elizabeth felt a renewed sense of confidence. Nick's protectiveness had made her feel safe. That lunch break, she encouraged Jasmine to sit with Nick.
"Hey guys!" Jasmine chirped. "I know this is random, but I just felt like joining you today."
"You're welcome. Take a seat," Nick smiled.
Elizabeth kept her promise—acting respectfully in Tiffy's presence. She even tried to rebuild friendly bridges with her.
---
Later that day, during class, Teacher Sally made an announcement.
"Good news, ladies! The school director has approved the launch of female sports programs. Starting next year, we'll have a female basketball team!" She paused, then smirked. "But no, that doesn't mean there'll be male cheerleading."
The class chuckled.
"This means more workouts, coaching sessions, and skincare breaks—yes, lotioning is important," she teased. "I'll do my best to balance both teams on our shared pitch."
After class, Elizabeth walked home with Jasmine, buzzing with excitement.
"I can't wait to join the female basketball team next year!" she gushed.
---
The Year-End Holidays
During the short break, Elizabeth sat quietly in her backyard, reflecting. Her thoughts drifted to Nick—the arts competition, her surprise finals entry, and her strong academic performance. Just then, Nick arrived unexpectedly.
"Nick! What a surprise!" she stood to hug him.
"I figured I'd visit. Tiffy's away on vacation with her parents."
"You're always welcomed. I've just been thinking about everything—school, basketball, cheerleading… relationships."
"You've been through a lot. But I saw you make that perfect long shot in the locker room the other day when we were searching for my keys. Remember?"
"Yeah, when Jasmine and I were betting on who'd buy lunch. Were you spying on us?"
"Total coincidence. But you really impressed me. You should join the basketball team next year."
"I'm planning to! But what about cheerleading? I can't lead both."
"Then do me a favor—pass the leadership back to Tiffy. I'll help you train for basketball. You'd make a great captain."
"I'd do anything for you… even if we're just friends now," Elizabeth said, brushing his cheek. The air grew tense—until they kissed.
Suddenly, Lawrence appeared.
"Hey guys…"
They pulled away awkwardly.
"Oh—hey Lawrence! We were just talking," Elizabeth stammered.
"Sure you were. Hi Nick."
"Hey Lawrence," Nick replied, standing up.
"Our last encounter wasn't great. Elizabeth, are you okay with him?"
"Everything's fine. And I love your haircut!"
"Thanks. But Nick—Elizabeth told me about the poisoning incident."
Nick was stunned. "Poisoning?!"
"Yeah. You and Tiffy tried to ruin her during a group date—she ended up foaming at the mouth. That's why I had beef with you."
"I swear, I had no idea. That sounds like Tiffy's jealousy getting out of hand. I'd never do that."
"Lawrence, believe him. I know Nick's heart."
"So Tiffy acted alone?"
"Yes. From everything I saw—it was her idea."
"Alright," Lawrence said, softening. "Sorry for misjudging you, Nick. Let's start over."
They shook hands.
"But Nick," Lawrence added, "don't tell Tiffy we know. She even targeted Teacher Sally."
Nick widened his eyes. "Sally?!"
"She's a snake. Be careful. She could seriously hurt someone if she snaps," Elizabeth warned.
"I'll be careful. I promise."
That evening, the three practiced basketball in high spirits.
---
A New Semester
Elizabeth officially handed the cheerleading reins back to Tiffy and joined the new girls' basketball team, led by Teacher Sally. She was elected team captain and trained vigorously. Despite the demanding schedule, the energy was high.
At home, she and Lawrence practiced nightly in the backyard.
---
The Tournament Season
Dasheen dominated the girls' division, thanks largely to Elizabeth:
Game 1: 121–91 vs win against Pimento
Game 2: 117–87 vs win against Zabocca
Game 3: 107–77 vs win against Malacca
They later won the national championship against city team Perfumi, 113–103. Elizabeth was named MVP and earned a scholarship grant.
Lawrence also won MVP in the boys' division after defeating Dasheen 101–98. He, too, secured a college scholarship.
In cheerleading, Tiffy pulled off an aerial acrobatic move she'd perfected with help from Elizabeth and Jasmine private practices—earning her team a title and a grant as well.
---
Backyard Celebration
The weekend after the tournament, the group gathered at Shadd's backyard: Faith, Lawrence, Tiffy, Marie, Nick, Elizabeth, and Jasmine. They snacked, laughed, and reminisced.
"I can't believe we all got college scholarships!" Lawrence said. "If only we could donate ours to each other!"
"But we'll still celebrate each other's wins," Jasmine added. "Now—seniors, tell us your future plans!"
Lawrence grinned. "I'm aiming for the national basketball league after college."
Faith followed, "Medicine. Always dreamed of being a doctor. The grant will help a lot."
Marie beamed. "I want to be a social media star. Blogging, pageants, makeup—just for fun."
Tiffy said, "I want to follow in my dad's footsteps—maybe get into politics and help fix the country."
Nick nodded. "I'm headed for the military. I've always wanted to serve and protect."
They continued laughing, sharing stories of school, love, and the tournament. The sun slowly set, but the joy lingered long into the evening.