Bubble Tea

beyond the horizon

Song for the chapter: Permission to dance by BTS

A/n: Time skip 1.5 years

Narrator's POV:

As the end of high school approached, our group of friends found themselves immersed in a whirlwind of SAT preparation, college interviews, and the daunting task of choosing universities. Andres and Audrey were a constant sight in the study room, books and notes sprawled across the table as they tackled practice tests and reviewed study guides.

"Okay, Audrey, explain this concept to me one more time," Andres said, flipping through his notes with a determined expression.

Audrey grinned, leaning over to point out a key formula. "It's simple, babe. See? You just have to break it down step by step."

Andres nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude for Audrey's patience. "Thanks, Audrey. I don't know what I'd do without you."

Across town, Jeremiah and Gia were huddled in Jeremiah's study room, poring over vocabulary lists and debating the nuances of historical events for their upcoming exams.

"I swear, these SAT words get more absurd every day," Jeremiah muttered, scribbling down definitions.

Gia chuckled, adjusting her glasses. "Tell me about it. But you're getting better, Jere. Just a little more practice."

Meanwhile, Edvin found himself in a perpetual battle with focus, often dragging himself to study sessions with Andres and Audrey, where he couldn't resist inserting comic relief into their intense study sessions.

"Guys, can we take a break? My brain's about to explode from all this math," Edvin joked, throwing his hands up dramatically.

Andres rolled his eyes, but couldn't help but smile. "Edvin, if you focused half as much on studying as you do on cracking jokes, you'd be acing these tests."

Edvin shrugged, a mischievous grin on his face. "Hey, laughter is the best medicine for exam stress."

Harley and Katy, ever the diligent pair, were often spotted in the library, noses buried in textbooks as they prepared meticulously for their interviews and exams.

"I think I've got the hang of this," Katy said, highlighting a crucial paragraph in her essay guide.

Harley nodded, flipping through flashcards. "You've got this, Katy. We've worked too hard to let anything slip now."

In another corner of town, Jade and Varchasva shared a booth in their favorite café, laptops open as they researched potential universities and scholarship opportunities.

"This one looks promising," Jade remarked, pointing to a prestigious university known for its science programs.

Varchasva nodded, taking notes. "Definitely worth considering. We need all the options we can get."

Even Stacy and Neo, known for their laid-back demeanor, were seen in the park, sprawled out on a blanket with study materials spread around them.

"Think we can handle this?" Neo asked, flipping through a thick SAT prep book.

Stacy smirked, nudging him playfully. "Of course, Neo. We've got each other's backs. We'll conquer this together."

As the weeks passed, each member of our group navigated the complexities of high school's final stretch, leaning on each other for support and occasional comic relief. The road ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear - they were determined to make the best choices for their futures, come what may.

Time skip

Narrator's POV:

After months of intense preparation and determination, the group of friends finally received their university acceptances, each embarking on their unique paths towards future success.

Andres and Audrey, initially eyeing Princeton and Yale respectively, found themselves happily enrolled in Harvard's prestigious engineering program. The Ivy League status and their shared passion for innovation made Harvard the perfect fit.

Jeremiah secured a spot at the University of California, focusing on a path that aligned with his academic and sports aspirations.

Edvin's journey led him to New York University, where he planned to explore his interests and immerse himself in the bustling city life.

Neo's dedication paid off with a full scholarship to Yale University, a testament to his academic prowess and determination.

Stacy pursued her passion at the London College of Fashion
Katy got into University of Oxford,while Harley embarked on a different path at the University of Berkeley, respecting Katy's wish for independence.

Gia pursued her dreams in medicine, attending the University of California, San Francisco's prestigious medical school.

Jade joined Brown University, the prestigious Ivy League which has always been her dream. While Issa chose to honor her culinary heritage at the Culinary Arts Academy in Switzerland.

Maddy continued her studies in Thailand, accompanied by her girlfriend, embracing a new chapter in her academic journey.

Lastly, Nicoli ventured to the London Business School to further his education and pursue his dreams in business.

Across continents and diverse fields of study, they all found fulfillment in their chosen paths, grateful for the support of friends and family who helped them reach this milestone.

After securing admissions to their respective universities, the excitement of the prom season swept through the lives of Andres, Audrey, Edvin, Jeremiah, Gia, Jade, Nicoli, Issa, Maddy, Stacy, Neo, Katy and Harley. Each of them, in their individual schools, celebrated the culmination of their high school journey with grandeur and joy. The nights were filled with shimmering gowns, elegant tuxedos, heartfelt conversations, and the promise of a bright future.

In their own ways, they danced through the night, basking in the glory of their achievements and the bittersweet taste of farewell. It was a time of reflection and celebration, a moment to cherish the bonds they had formed and the memories they had created.

As they prepared to embark on the next chapter of their lives, each of them felt a profound sense of contentment and happiness. Despite the trials and tribulations they had faced, they had emerged stronger, their friendships and love prevailing against all odds.

In the grand tapestry of life, it became evident that it is the people we surround ourselves with and the love we give and receive that shape our existence. The presence of good friends and loving companions brought a sense of fulfillment that no material success could ever match. As their school life came to a close, it marked not an end but a new beginning—a fresh chapter waiting to be written.

And so, with hopeful hearts and spirits buoyed by the promise of what lay ahead, they ventured into the future. Their paths diverged, yet their connections remained unbroken, bound by the shared experiences and the unwavering support they had offered one another.

To quote Jane Austen, "There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart," and indeed, it was this tenderness that had guided them through the highs and lows. In the end, love triumphed, for "We are all fools in love," as Austen aptly put it. Their story, like all great tales, reminded us that no matter the obstacles, love and friendship can conquer all.

As they moved forward, they carried with them the lessons learned and the bonds forged, knowing that "If things are not going well, it is not the end." With this knowledge, they embraced the future with optimism, ready to face whatever came their way.

Thus, their school life concluded with a sense of completion and anticipation, a beautiful prologue to the myriad adventures and experiences that awaited them. And so, the tale of Andres, Audrey, Edvin, Jeremiah, Gia, Jade, Nicoli, Issa, Maddy Stacy, Neo, Katy, and Harley drew to a close, not with an end, but with a beginning—a testament to the enduring power of hope, love, and friendship.

A/n: Picture credits to the rightful owner.