Against The Odds

In the bustling halls of Crestview High, senior year is a whirlwind of last-minute decisions, college applications, and the pressure to conform. Claire Valentine, a brilliant and ambitious aspiring scientist, often feels like an outsider amid the chaos of high school social hierarchies. With thick glasses, a passion for robotics, and a penchant for doodling equations in the margins of her notebooks, she embraces her identity as a proud nerd, much to the teasing of her peers.

Opposite of Claire on the social spectrum is Ryan Kim, the star athlete of the basketball team. With his easy smile, athletic prowess, and a heart of gold, he seemingly has it all-except for one crucial component: a sense of belonging. Beneath the facade of the perfect jock lies a boy who feels the pressure to succeed in a world that seems determined to box him into stereotypes and expectations.

When a chance encounter pairs Claire and Ryan for a school project on social dynamics, it ignites an unexpected friendship that blossoms into something deeper. As they navigate the challenges of high school life, they discover shared passions, grapple with family expectations, and challenge the labels their peers have placed on them. Together, Claire and Ryan confront prejudices, fear of failure, and their contrasting words, learning that love knows no boundaries, especially when faced with the struggles of distance and deception.

But as prom night approaches, they must confront the realities of their worlds colliding. Can their love endure the scrutiny of their classmates, their families, and the judgments of a society that often divides rather than unites? With determination, courage, and the unbreakable bond they've formed, Claire and Ryan must find the strength to stand together, proving that true love can overcome any odds.

cover by: lorna alvarado.