Chapter 1: Fresh Start

249 15 10
                                        

Hello and Welcome!

I'm thrilled to share with you my very first novel, [Dreams to vows]. As a new author, this journey has been both exhilarating and humbling. This story is a blend of imagination, dreams, and passion, and I can't wait for you to experience it.

I hope this novel captivates you, sparks your curiosity, and invites you to explore new worlds alongside my characters. Your support and feedback mean the world to me as I navigate this exciting new chapter.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure. I'm eager to hear your thoughts and share this story with you. Happy reading!

🥂🥂

*"Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."* - Seneca


Priscilla stood on the graduation stage, a sea of caps and gowns stretching out before her. She clutched her degree tightly, the culmination of years of hard work and sleepless nights. A wave of applause washed over her as she smiled at the crowd, spotting her family and friends among the cheering throng. This was her moment-a fresh start.

After the ceremony, Priscilla and her friends gathered outside, the campus buzzing with excitement and celebration. The Nigerian sun shone brightly, casting a golden hue over the scene. Laughter and chatter filled the air as graduates posed for photos, their faces alight with joy and relief.

"Can you believe we did it?" exclaimed Tayo, Priscilla's best friend, as she hugged her tightly. "We're finally graduates!"

Priscilla laughed, the sound bubbling up from a place of pure happiness. "I know, right? It feels surreal."

Their friend Ada joined them, balancing a plate of jollof rice and grilled chicken. "This calls for a serious celebration," she said, taking a bite and grinning. "No more lectures, no more exams. Just freedom!"

They found a spot under a large tree and sat down, the shade providing a welcome respite from the heat. As they ate and reminisced about their years at the university, Priscilla felt a sense of contentment wash over her. She looked around at her friends, her heart swelling with gratitude.

"You know," she began, her voice thoughtful, "graduating is just the beginning for me. I've always dreamed of starting my own business consulting firm."

Tayo's eyes widened. "Really? That's amazing, Priscilla!"

Ada nodded enthusiastically. "Tell us more! What's the plan?"

Priscilla took a deep breath, excitement tingling in her veins. "I want to help small businesses grow and thrive. I've been working on a business plan for months now. My goal is to create a firm that offers comprehensive consulting services, from marketing strategies to financial planning. I believe that with the right guidance, any business can succeed."

"Wow," Tayo said, impressed. "That sounds ambitious but totally doable. You've always been the smartest and most determined person I know."

Ada grinned. "And the most stubborn. Once you set your mind on something, there's no stopping you."

Priscilla chuckled, feeling buoyed by her friends' support. "Thanks, guys. It means a lot to me."

They spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying each other's company, sharing dreams and aspirations. The sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the campus. Priscilla felt a sense of calm and optimism. This was her fresh start, and she was ready to embrace whatever came next.

That evening, they headed to their favorite local restaurant to continue the celebration. The place was alive with music and laughter, the perfect backdrop for their joy. As they settled into a booth, Priscilla looked around at her friends, feeling a deep sense of camaraderie.

"Here's to new beginnings," she said, raising her glass of palm wine. "To dreams and the journey ahead."

They clinked their glasses together, the sound ringing out like a promise. The conversation flowed easily, punctuated by bursts of laughter. Tayo recounted a particularly funny story from their first year, leaving everyone in stitches.

"Remember when Priscilla tried to impress that lecturer with her presentation and ended up tripping over the projector cable?" Tayo said, barely able to contain her giggles.

Priscilla groaned, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I thought we agreed never to speak of that again!"

Ada laughed, wiping away tears. "Oh, come on! It was hilarious. And you still got the highest grade in the class."

As the evening wore on, Priscilla felt a profound sense of contentment. She had worked hard to reach this point, and now she was surrounded by people who believed in her. Her dream of starting her own business felt more tangible than ever, a beacon guiding her forward.

By the time they left the restaurant, the stars were twinkling brightly in the night sky. Priscilla walked home, her mind buzzing with ideas and possibilities. She knew there would be challenges ahead, but she also knew she had the determination and support to overcome them.

As she lay in bed that night, Priscilla felt a sense of peace settle over her. Graduation was just the beginning. Tomorrow, she would start working towards her dream. With a smile on her lips, she drifted off to sleep, ready to embrace the future with open arms.

Dreams to vows Where stories live. Discover now