Coby & Alex [REWRITTEN] | OC

Chapter 9

The art room buzzes with chatter as the students settle in their seats, ready for another day. Jonah fidgets with her sketchbook drawing while glancing occasionally at the clock. Just as the teacher strides in, the room quiets down. She straightens her posture and brings her attention to the front of the classroom, prepared to absorb whatever knowledge the day will bring.

"Good morning, everyone," the teacher begins, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Today I have an exciting assignment for you all." Jonah's ears perk up. "As you know, we have been covering the topic of nature and our environment. I want each of you to create a project that captures the beauty around us— through photography, painting, or any medium of your choosing."

Jonah's heart races at the thought. This is her chance to combine her love for art with her passion for the outdoors. The teacher continues outlining the details. "You can work in groups if you'd like, but it is not a requirement. You will have three weeks to complete it, so take the time to explore your ideas."

Once the class wraps up and students begin to shuffle out, Jonah gathers her things and rushes to find her friends, spotting Alex and Coby chatting in the hallway. "Hey, you two!" She calls out, waving them over. "I just got assigned a project, and I'd like your help!"

"What's the plan?" Coby asks, leaning against the wall with a curious smile.

"I want to camp out to take photos of nature for my project," Jonah explains, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It'll be fun, and I'd love for you to join!"

"Sure, count me in!" Alex replies immensely, grinning.

"Yeah, I'll come too," Coby adds, nodding enthusiastically.

Jonah beams at her friends. "Awesome! I'll also invite the others if they're free. The more the merrier!"

•••

A few days later, they arrive at a campsite surrounded by tall trees and the calm sound of a nearby lake. Jonah feels a rush of excitement as she takes her camera out of her bag, eager to capture the beauty around her. She sets it up adjusting the lens to focus on the colourful landscape.

Meanwhile, Alex and Coby are joking with each other as they prepare a small fire. The sun starts to set, filling the sky with shades of orange and pink, and Jonah feels a thrill of anticipation.

She glances over at Jai and Emily, who are struggling to set up their tents, laughter spilling from their lips as they poke fun at each other. Seeing them enjoy the moment makes Jonah smile.

"Hey, let me know if you need help!" she calls out, snapping a picture of them as they work together. This trip is shaping up to be something special.

"Okay, everyone," Jonah calls out getting the group's attention. "I want to get some great shots for my project. Any suggestions on where to start?"

Emily steps forward. "You could focus on that old oak tree over there? It looks majestic against the sunset." She suggests, surprising everyone with her keen observation.

"Yeah, good idea!" Jonah smiles. "But I also want to capture the smaller details. Maybe leaves or some interesting textures. What do y'all think?"

"I like that!" Coby chimes in.

"Okay, off topic, I may need some help with putting this tent together," Emily laughs, summoning Jonah over.

Jonah chuckles, leaving Alex to look after her camera before making her way to the tent. "I had a feeling you needed help with this," she teases as she kneels beside her friend.

"Hey, in my defence, this thing has a mind of its own!" Emily grins, her face lit up by the soft glow of the fading sunlight.

As Jonah helps Emily fix their tent, Alex glances at the camera in his hands, noticing the way the setting sun casts a golden hue over the trees. He lifts the camera and snaps a few shots, testing out Jonah's settings, before turning to Coby, who's busy stacking more wood near the campfire.