THE FIRST QUIZ

As Alex walked into the house, he couldn't shake off the feeling of happiness that lingered from the previous night's party. He had shared some special moments with Emily, and he couldn't wait to see her again. The night went by quickly, and Alex slept peacefully, The next morning, Alex woke up feeling refreshed and energized. He headed to the bathroom to wash up, still mesmerized by the memories of the previous night's party. As he was washing up, his uncle called out to him, "Big day ahead, kiddo! We've got a lot of chores to do today!" Alex groaned, knowing that his uncle was right. It was a hot Saturday morning, and there was nothing to do but tackle the mountain of laundry that had been piling up. After finishing his chores, Alex settled in for a relaxing morning, watching cartoons on the television. Despite his age, he still enjoyed watching them, and they brought a smile to his face. Just as he was getting engrossed in his favorite cartoon, his phone buzzed with a text from Emily. "Hi, good morning!" she wrote, accompanied by a smiling emoji. Alex's face lit up with a smile as he replied to her text. "Good morning, Emily! How's your day going so far?" he asked, feeling happy to be connecting with her again.As Alex and Emily continued to chat, he had already finished his breakfast and decided to head to his uncle's room. His uncle was surrounded by piles of papers, busy with his work accountability. Alex knocked on the door and entered, "Uncle John, I wanted to talk to you about something."

‎His uncle looked up, "What's up, kiddo?"

‎Alex explained, "My friends and I have decided to meet every Saturday for group discussions, and I wanted to let you know about it." His uncle nodded, "That sounds great, Alex. I'm glad you're taking your schoolwork seriously." As they chatted, uncle John mentioned that by this time, Alex was supposed to start going to campus on his own. Alex felt a mix of emotions - excitement at the prospect of independence, but also a hint of nervousness about navigating the road alone. For a moment, he thought about asking his uncle to accompany him, but then he decided to accept the challenge. He took a deep breath and nodded, "I'll do it, Uncle John. I'll go to campus on my own." His uncle smiled, "That's the spirit, Alex! I'm proud of you."

‎With a newfound sense of determination, Alex headed back to his room, feeling ready to take on the day and the challenge of navigating the road on his own. As the day went by, Alex felt a sense of excitement and nervousness building up inside him. He had finished his preparations for the day, and his uncle had handed him some money, telling him to "show himself off" at the campus.

‎With a sense of determination, Alex set off towards the campus. He knew the area, but he had never navigated it on his own before. As he walked, he felt a sense of pride and independence wash over him. After a while, Alex decided to go by a taxi to take him the rest of the way. He stopped a passing taxi and got in, telling the driver his destination. The driver, a friendly-looking man with a warm smile, nodded and began to drive. As they navigated through the busy streets, the driver played some cool music, which helped to ease Alex's nerves. Alex looked out the window, watching as the city went by. He felt a sense of wonder and excitement at the new experiences that lay ahead. The taxi driver, noticing Alex's fascination with the city, struck up a conversation. "First year on campus, eh?" he asked, glancing at Alex in the rearview mirror. Alex nodded, feeling a little shy but also eager to chat. "Yeah, I'm a bit nervous," he admitted. The driver smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry, young man. You'll do great. Just be yourself and enjoy the experience.". The taxi driver stopped at the main entrance of the school, Alex gathered his belongings and paid the fare. He stepped out of the taxi, took a deep breath, and headed straight into the campus. As he walked, he couldn't help but explore the surroundings. The campus was bustling with students, some of whom were lounging under trees, chatting and laughing. Alex smiled, feeling a sense of excitement and belonging.

‎After a few minutes of walking, Alex finally found himself in front of the hostel where his friends were staying. He felt a brief moment of uncertainty, but then he took a deep breath and walked into the hostel. The atmosphere inside was lively, with students milling about, chatting and laughing. Alex's eyes scanned the room, searching for his friends. He spotted them seated in a corner, chatting and giggling. Alex's face lit up with a smile as he walked over to join them. "Hey, guys!" he exclaimed, plopping down beside them. His friends turned to him, grinning. "Hey, Alex! What took you so long?" John teased, nudging him playfully. Alex chuckled, feeling happy to be surrounded by his friends. "Traffic," he replied, shrugging. "But I'm here now, and I'm ready to catch up! The group laughed, and Alex joined in, feeling like he was finally where he belonged. They spent the next few hours chatting, laughing, and joking around, enjoying each other's company on the sunny Saturday afternoon.As the four friends sat in the room chatting, they all knew the real reason why Alex was there - it was time for their group study session. They quickly packed up their belongings and headed out, eager to get started. As they walked, John turned to Alex with a mischievous grin. "So, Alex, what really happened between you and Emily last night?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement. Alex's face turned bright red as he tried to intervene. "Hey, hey, let's not get into that right now," he protested, laughing. But his friends were having none of it. They teased him good-naturedly, joking about what might have happened between Alex and Emily.

‎The group erupted into laughter, and Alex couldn't help but join in. He knew his friends were just joking around, and he was happy to be surrounded by people who made him feel so comfortable.

‎As they continued walking, the conversation flowed easily, with everyone chatting and joking together. It was clear that this was a group of friends who were comfortable with each other, and who enjoyed each other's company. Finally, they arrived at their destination - a quiet spot on campus where they could study without distractions. They settled in, pulling out their books and notes, and began to focus on their studies. But the joking and teasing didn't stop - it just became a fun background hum to their study session.As the study session progressed, the four friends asked each other questions based on their coursework, creating a congenial and supportive atmosphere. They all participated equally, sharing their knowledge and insights with each other.

‎As the afternoon wore on, the studies became more engaging and interactive. They took breaks, discussed topics, and even made funny comments to lighten the mood. The congenial atmosphere made the study session feel less like a chore and more like a fun, collaborative activity. As the evening drew near, the friends started to feel a bit peckish. They pulled out snacks from their bags and shared them with each other. The break gave them a chance to relax and recharge before continuing their studies. However, as they sat there munching on their snacks, they suddenly had an idea. "Why don't we take a break and grab some dinner at Echo Bridge?" Mike suggested, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

‎The others eagerly agreed, and soon they were walking towards the popular joint. As they entered, they were greeted by the sound of music filling the air. They found a cozy table by the window and sat down, enjoying the lively atmosphere..The music was a perfect blend of upbeat and relaxing, and the friends couldn't help but tap their feet along with the beat. They chatted, laughed, and enjoyed each other's company, feeling grateful for the break from their studies. As they sat there, surrounded by the sounds of music and the warmth of each other's company, they felt truly carefree.As they continued to enjoy the music, Alex's phone buzzed with a notification. He pulled it out of his pocket and saw that it was a text from his uncle. "Hey Alex, just a heads up, I'll be running late tonight. I've got an event to attend and I won't be home until later. Love you!" Alex smiled and replied, "Ok, Uncle John. Have fun and drive safe. Love you too!" He put his phone back in his pocket, but it buzzed again just a few seconds later. This time, it was a text from Emily. "Hey Alex, how's it going? Where are you?" Alex's heart skipped a beat as he saw Emily's name on his screen. He smiled and began to type out a response. "Hey Emily! I'm doing great, thanks. I'm at Echo Bridge with the guys. We're just grabbing some dinner and enjoying the music." Emily responded quickly. "Aww, that sounds like so much fun! I'm a bit jealous. What's the music like?" Alex laughed and typed out a response. "It's really good! They're playing a mix of everything. We're having a blast. You should join us!" Emily's response was immediate. "Really? You want me to come join you? I'd love to!"

‎He looked up at his friends and grinned. "Guys, Emily's going to join us!" His friends cheered and high-fived each other. Alex quickly typed out a response to Emily, giving her the details of where they were and what they were doing. A few minutes later, Emily walked into the restaurant, looking stunning in a pair of very short, neat, and stylish rich blue jeans. The jeans were perfectly fitted, accentuating her curves and showcasing her toned legs. They were paired with a bright yellow sundress that added a pop of color to her outfit, making her stand out in the crowded restaurant. Her overall appearance was effortlessly chic and stylish, turning heads as she made her way to join Alex and their friends.As Emily sat down, looking beautiful, Alex couldn't take his eyes off her. Neither could his other three friends, who were all staring directly at her. Emily said hi, and they all suddenly became conscious, responding with a chorus of hi's. Emily joined in the conversation, and they had a nice chat, laughing and joking around. They ordered some drinks and had a great time, enjoying each other's company. All this time, Emily and Alex were holding hands under the table, smiling and laughing as they looked into each other's eyes. Emily couldn't help but notice how bright and happy Alex looked that night, and she thought to herself that he was looking stunning. Alex, too, was struck by Emily's beauty, and he couldn't help but feel a strong connection to her. Emily, in turn, felt like her feelings for Alex were real, but she didn't know how to describe them. Just as they were getting lost in each other's eyes, a lady walked by and tapped Emily on the shoulder. It was Angela, a friend of Emily's. Emily stood up and offered Angela a seat to join them.

‎Angela sat down and greeted the group, and one of group Mike asked Emily who she was. Angela introduced herself, and they all joined in the conversation, chatting and laughing together. As they talked, Alex couldn't help but notice the way Emily's eyes sparkled when she laughed, and he felt his heart skip a beat. Emily, too, was aware of Alex's gaze, and she felt a flutter in her chest. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and conversation, but beneath the surface, a romance was blossoming.As the evening wore on, Alex and his friends continued to chat and laugh together at the restaurant.

‎"I should probably get going," Alex said, glancing at his watch. His friends nodded in agreement, and they all decided to escort Alex out of the restaurant. As they walked, they chatted and joked, enjoying each other's company. When they reached the taxi rank, they exchanged greetings and goodbyes. Emily hugged Alex tightly, holding him close for a moment before pulling back.

‎"Take care, okay?" Emily said, smiling up at Alex. Alex smiled back, feeling a sense of gratitude towards his friends. "You too," he said. "Thanks for walking me out." With one last wave, Alex climbed into a taxi and headed home. His friends watched him go, waving goodbye as the taxi disappeared into the night. As they turned to head back to campus, Emily turned to the others with a smile. "I'm so glad we met Alex," she said. "He's really special. As Alex walked home from the taxi rank, he couldn't help but feel a sense of loneliness wash over him. The streets were quiet and dimly lit, and he felt like he was the only person in the world. When he arrived home, he was greeted by an empty house. His uncle wasn't home yet, and Alex felt a pang of loneliness. He decided to busy himself by heading to the kitchen to prepare something to eat. As he cooked, he left some food aside for his uncle, thinking that he would be home soon. Just as he was about to sit down to eat, his phone buzzed with a notification. He tapped the screen and saw that it was Emily, checking in to see if he had made it home safely. Alex smiled, feeling a warmth in his heart, and replied to her message.

‎"Yeah, I'm home and about to eat," he typed out, feeling a sense of comfort knowing that Emily was thinking of him.

‎Emily replied almost immediately, "Ah, nice! I'm about to eat too. What are you having?" Alex chuckled to himself, feeling happy to be chatting with Emily. "Just some leftovers from last night," he replied. "You?" Their conversation flowed easily, and they chatted back and forth, sharing stories and laughter. As they talked, Alex felt his loneliness dissipate, replaced by a sense of connection and friendship."Just as Alex and Emily were in the middle of their conversation, Alex's phone buzzed again with a new notification. He glanced at the screen and saw that it was from the school group chat. "Hey, Em, hold on for a sec," Alex said, pausing their conversation.

‎He opened the notification and saw that it was from the Nursing Faculty President. His eyes scanned the message, and he felt a surge of excitement. "Hey, Em, you won't believe what just came in," Alex said, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

‎"What is it?" Emily asked, curiosity evident in her tone."The faculty president just announced that the class reps have been chosen, and they'll be revealed on Monday," Alex said, barely containing his excitement. Emily's response was immediate. "Oh wow, that's so cool!. uncle John walked in looking exhausted, and Alex immediately jumped into action, grabbing some food for him from the kitchen. As they sat down to eat, Alex asked his uncle what was wrong, and he shared stories of a late-night party he'd attended with a friend. After chatting for a bit, Alex took care of the dishes and headed back to his room. He pulled out his phone and sent a text to John, who was still online. They started discussing the latest news - the class reps had just been announced by the president in their group chat. Alex and John were both curious about who had been chosen and what it meant for their class. They chatted back and forth, speculating about the upcoming year and how the new reps would make a difference.It was a lazy Sunday morning, and Alex had nothing on his agenda except watching cartoons. He was comfortably seated on the couch, surrounded by the quiet of the morning.

‎His uncle was outside, clapping and making noise as he went about his morning routine. Alex's phone buzzed, breaking the silence. He picked it up to see a message from Emily, checking in on him. They chatted for a bit, catching up on each other's weekends. But as the conversation went on, Alex's attention was drawn to the noise his uncle was making outside. He wondered what he was up to and decided to put his phone down and go investigate. As he stepped outside, he saw his uncle busy with various tasks, from watering plants to fixing a broken chair. Alex offered to help, and together they worked on getting everything done. After they finished, Alex's uncle turned to him and said, "Now, go take a bath. We're going out today." Alex's face lit up with excitement. He loved surprises, and he couldn't wait to see what his uncle had planned.

‎With a spring in his step, Alex headed to the bathroom to get ready for their adventure. He was whistling a happy tune as he bathed and dressed, feeling grateful for the quality time he got to spend with his uncle.As Alex got dressed, he put on a nice outfit that fit him perfectly, and he couldn't help but admire his reflection in the mirror. His uncle, too, was looking sharp, and he picked up the car keys and a bouquet of flowers from the table before heading out the door. As they drove through the city, Alex gazed out the window in wonder. They passed by beautiful parks, bustling streets, and historic landmarks that Alex had only seen in pictures before. His uncle drove smoothly, pointing out interesting sights and sharing stories about the city's history. After a while, they arrived at a lovely park filled with children laughing and playing together. Alex's eyes widened as he took in the vibrant scene. His uncle parked the car, and they walked to a nearby ice cream shop. The aroma of sweet treats wafted out, making Alex's mouth water. Inside the shop, they found a lively atmosphere with people of all ages chatting and laughing together. Alex and his uncle joined the crowd, ordering a couple of ice cream cones and taking a seat on a nearby bench. As they savored their ice cream, Alex and his uncle chatted and enjoyed the warm sunshine and lively atmosphere. Alex felt grateful for the special day out with his uncle.As Alex sat on the bench chatting with his uncle, he noticed three young ladies walking by, all around 18 years old. They were dressed stylishly and seemed to be having a great time, laughing and chatting with each other as they enjoyed their ice cream. One of the girls in particular caught Alex's attention, and he found himself staring at her for a moment. There was something familiar about her, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Her face looked nice, but it was her hairstyle that seemed different. Alex racked his brain, trying to remember where he had seen her before. As the girls walked by, the one who had caught Alex's attention turned and smiled brightly at her friends. Her eyes sparkled with amusement, and Alex felt a sudden jolt of recognition. But before he could place her, she had turned back to her friends and they had continued on their way. Alex's uncle noticed him staring and raised an eyebrow. "Everything okay, Alex?" he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice. Alex shook his head, still trying to process what he had just seen. "I think I know that girl," he said, "but I'm not sure where from."Alex's uncle raised an eyebrow, clearly confused by Alex's response. "You think you know that girl?" he asked, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Where did you meet her, Alex? Was it at school? In a dream? Or maybe she's a secret agent sent to spy on you?"

‎Alex chuckled, realizing his uncle was joking, but also trying to get to the bottom of things. "No, no, it's not like that," Alex said, laughing. "I just...I don't know, I feel like I've seen her before, but I don't know where."His uncle's expression turned serious, and he asked, "Okay, Alex, think carefully. Have you seen her at school? Maybe in a class or in the hallway?" Alex thought for a moment before responding, "No, I don't think so. I would have remembered if I saw her at school."

‎His uncle's next question was, "Okay, how about at the mall or at a store? Maybe you saw her shopping or working?"

‎Alex shook his head, "No, that's not it either."His uncle's eyes sparkled with amusement, and he asked, "Okay, Alex, I have one more question. Are you sure you didn't see her in a movie or on TV? Maybe she's a famous actress, and you're just a huge fan?" Alex laughed, realizing his uncle was teasing him, but also trying to help him figure out where he knew the girl from. "No, uncle, I'm sure it's not that," Alex said, smiling. "I just...I don't know, I feel like I've seen her before, but I don't know where."As they sat and enjoyed the music, Alex's uncle turned to him and said, "You know, Alex, I think you're overthinking this whole thing. Maybe you just saw the girl in a dream or something!" Alex laughed at his uncle's joke, feeling a bit more at ease. His uncle continued, "Seriously though, Alex, don't worry about it. You'll figure out who she is eventually. And if you don't, well, maybe it's just not meant to be." Alex smiled, feeling grateful for his uncle's words of wisdom. As they finished their drinks, Alex's uncle suggested they move on to a different place. "How about we check out that new park that just opened up downtown?" he asked. Alex agreed, and they set off towards the park. As they walked, Alex couldn't help but think about the mysterious girl again. He still couldn't place where he had seen her before, and it was starting to drive him a bit crazy. But he pushed the thought aside and focused on enjoying the time with his uncle. The park was beautiful, with lush green grass and vibrant flowers everywhere. Alex and his uncle strolled along the walking paths, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. They chatted and laughed, enjoying each other's company. At one point, Alex's uncle turned to him and said, "You know, Alex, I'm really proud of the person you're becoming. You're kind, smart, and curious. Don't ever lose those qualities, okay?" Alex felt a warmth in his heart, knowing that his uncle believed in him.

‎As the sun began to set, Alex and his uncle found a bench to sit on and watch the stars come out. It was a peaceful, serene moment, and Alex felt grateful to be sharing it with his uncle.As the night drew near, Uncle John suggested they head to a restaurant for dinner. "Tonight, we're not eating at home," he said with a smile. Alex's curiosity was piqued, and he asked, "Is there an occasion or something? Why are we making tonight so special?" Uncle John chuckled and replied in a low tone, "No occasion, kiddo. We just want to have some fun." Alex's eyes sparkled with excitement as they headed to the restaurant. Over dinner, they chatted and laughed together, enjoying each other's company. After finishing their meal, they got back into their car, and Uncle John drove them home. As soon as they arrived, Alex felt a wave of tiredness wash over him. He bid his uncle goodnight and headed straight to the bathroom to take a bath. Feeling refreshed, he slipped into bed and drifted off to sleep, lulled by the memory of their fun-filled day. The next morning, the sun rose bright and early, signaling the start of a new day. Alex woke up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to take on the day. He stretched, yawned, and swung his legs over the side of the bed, remembering that it was Monday morning. A new week had begun, and Alex was eager to see what it had in store.

‎Alex finished getting ready for school and headed where his uncle had prepared a quick breakfast for him. Alex wolfed down the food, eager to get to school on time. His uncle had told him he'd be going to school on his own that day, so Alex grabbed his backpack and headed out the door. He made his way to the taxi rank and hailed a ride to campus. The taxi dropped him off at the entrance, and Alex paid the fare before heading to the lecture hall. He joined the crowd of students streaming into the hall and found a seat near the back. As the lecture began, Alex pulled out his notebook and pen, ready to take notes. The lecturer started discussing the basics of the subject, and Alex listened intently, scribbling down key points and asking occasional questions in his head. The lecturer fielded questions from the students, and Alex listened quietly, absorbing the information. As the lecture drew to a close, the lecturer announced that there would be a quiz the following day. "Make sure you're prepared," the lecturer warned, before dismissing the class. Alex closed his notebook, feeling a sense of determination. He was ready to study hard and ace the quiz. He packed up his things and joined the flow of students streaming out of the lecture hall, already thinking about how he was going to prepare for the quiz,he was suddenly interrupted by the familiar voices of his friends Kenny, Mike, and John. They approached him with wide smiles on their faces, and Alex couldn't help but return the gesture. "Hey, man! What's up?" Kenny asked, clapping Alex on the back. "Not much, just thinking about this quiz tomorrow," Alex replied, shaking his head. Mike chuckled. "Don't worry, we've got your back. We can study together during lunch." John nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and I've got some notes from last class that might help." The four friends fell into step, walking through the campus as they chatted and laughed together. As they strolled, Alex felt his worries about the quiz start to fade, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and determination. With his friends by his side, he felt ready to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead.As they walked into the cafeteria, Alex and his friends spotted a vacant bench near the windows and made their way towards it. They dropped their bags and settled in, taking a moment to scan the menu board before deciding on some snacks. Kenny, who was always hungry, opted for a large sandwich and a bag of chips. Mike chose a salad and a fruit smoothie, while John went for a pizza slice and a soda. Alex settled for a chicken wrap and a bottle of water. As they waited for their food to arrive, they started discussing the subject and the topics they thought might appear on the quiz. Mike pulled out his notes from last class and began to review them with the group. "Okay, so we know the quiz is going to cover chapters 3 and 4," Mike said, scanning his notes. "I think we should focus on the key concepts, like Basic Nursing, and the different types of hospital structures." John nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and we should also review the historical background of nursing ." Kenny, who was busy devouring his sandwich, looked up and said, "Don't forget about the nursing practice, guys. We need to be able to interpret the terms used in the hospital." ‎Alex took a sip of his water and added, "I think we should also review the case studies from class. Those might give us some clues about what to expect on the quiz." As they finished their snacks, their conversation naturally shifted from studying to their personal aspirations. They began to share their dreams and goals, and the conversation took a deeper turn. "I want to be a pediatric surgeon," Kenny said, his eyes lighting up with passion. "I've always been drawn to helping kids, and I think it would be an incredible feeling to make a difference in their lives." Mike nodded thoughtfully. "I can see you doing that, Kenny. You've always had a way with kids. As for me, I'm thinking of specializing in oncology. My grandmother passed away from cancer, and it had a profound impact on me. I want to help find a cure and make a difference in people's lives." John spoke up next, his voice filled with conviction. "I want to work in emergency medicine. I love the fast-paced environment and the idea of making quick decisions to save lives. It's a challenging field, but I know it would be incredibly rewarding."

‎As they shared their aspirations, Alex felt inspired by his friends' passion and determination. He realized that they were all driven by a desire to make a positive impact in the world. As they finished their conversation, they decided to take a walk around the campus. They strolled through the gardens, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, until they came across a beautiful tree with a bench underneath it. They sat down, and Alex suddenly remembered the girl he had seen the day before with his uncle.

‎"Guys, I need to tell you something," Alex said, a curious expression on his face. "Yesterday, when I was out with my uncle, I saw this girl. She was beautiful, with long hair and piercing eyes. But the thing is, I couldn't place where I had seen her before. It's been driving me crazy."

‎His friends looked at him with confusion, unsure of where Alex was going with this. "What do you mean you couldn't place where you had seen her before?" Kenny asked, his brow furrowed. Alex shook his head. "I don't know, it's just that she looked familiar, but I couldn't remember where I had seen her. It's like my brain is trying to tell me something, but I'm not listening." His friends exchanged skeptical glances, unsure of what to make of Alex's sudden obsession with this mysterious girl.Kenny's tone suddenly changed, and he began speaking in a unique dialect, a Nigerian Pidgin English. "Wetin dey happen, Alex? You dey dream of woman now?" he said, his voice laced with amusement. Mike and John burst out laughing, and they too began speaking in Pidgin. "Alex, you don see fine girl, you dey confuse!" Mike chimed in. John added, "Na so dem dey do, when dem see fine girl, dem brain go scatter!"

‎Alex listened, fascinated by the conversation. He had heard his friends speak in Pidgin before, but it was still a novelty to him. He was curious to learn more about this dialect and how it was used. "Guys, what's going on? Why are you speaking like that?" Alex asked, his eyes wide with curiosity. Kenny grinned mischievously. "Na Pidgin, my friend! We dey speak am for fun!" Mike added, "Yeah, it's a way of speaking that's unique to Nigeria. We learned it from our parents and friends back home." John chimed in, "And it's not just for fun, Alex. Pidgin is a real language, with its own grammar and vocabulary. We can teach you if you want to learn!" Alex's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? I'd love to learn! Teach me, guys!"As they sat under the tree, Kenny, Mike, and John began teaching Alex the basics of Nigerian Pidgin English. They started with simple phrases and words, and Alex was a quick learner. "Okay, Alex, let's start with 'hello'," Kenny said. "In Pidgin, we say 'wetin dey happen'?"

‎Alex repeated the phrase, trying to get the pronunciation right. "Wetin dey happen?" Mike chuckled. "Close enough, Alex! Now, let's try 'how are you'? We say 'how you dey'?" Alex tried again. "How you dey?" John grinned. "Perfect! Now, let's try a conversation. I'll start. 'Wetin dey happen, Alex'?" Alex thought for a moment before responding. "I dey fine, thank you. How you dey?" Kenny and Mike cheered, impressed with Alex's quick progress. "Well done, Alex!" Kenny exclaimed. "You're a natural!"

‎As they continued to practice, Alex became more confident in his ability to speak Pidgin. He learned phrases like "I dey go" (I'm going), "I dey come" (I'm coming), and "Make I see you later" (see you later). At one point, Alex turned to Mike and said, "Mike, wetin dey happen? Why you dey laugh?" Mike laughed even harder. "I dey laugh because you dey speak Pidgin like pro, Alex!" Kenny and John joined in, and soon they were all laughing and chatting in Pidgin. Alex felt like he was finally part of the group, and he was grateful to his friends for teaching him this new language. As they sat under the tree, enjoying the warm sun and each other's company, Alex realized that learning Pidgin was not just about speaking a new language – it was about connecting with his friends and their culture.Kenny, Mike, and John were all Nigerian by birth, but they had spent most of their lives in Ghana. Their families had moved to Ghana when Kenny was 11,Mike at 13 and John at 14 years old, and they had grown up together in the same community. Despite being Nigerian, they had learned to speak some Ghanaian languages, such as Twi, although they were not fluent. They had also adopted some Ghanaian customs and traditions, but they still maintained strong ties to their Nigerian heritage. What was interesting about Kenny, Mike, and John was that they were all related. Kenny's father and Mike's mother were siblings, making Kenny and Mike cousins. John, on the other hand, was Kenny's older brother.

‎Growing up together in Ghana, they had developed a strong bond, and their family ties had made their friendship even more special. They had shared many memories together, from playing soccer in the streets to exploring the markets and trying new foods. Now, as they attended the university together, they were grateful to have each other's support and companionship. They often sat together in class, studied together, and even explored the campus together.

‎Their Nigerian background and Ghanaian upbringing had given them a unique perspective on life, and they were proud of their cultural heritage. As they navigated university life, they knew they could always count on each other, no matter what challenges lay ahead.As they sat under the tree, Kenny, Mike, and John couldn't help but continue joking and teasing each other. They had been friends for so long that they knew exactly how to push each other's buttons and make each other laugh. Alex, who had been quietly observing their banter, couldn't help but chuckle at their antics. "You guys are something else," he said, shaking his head in amusement.

‎Kenny grinned mischievously. "Hey, someone's got to keep things interesting around here!" Just then, Mike glanced at his watch and exclaimed, "Oh man, we've got to go! Our next lecture is in 20 minutes!" John groaned. "Already? I was having so much fun!" Kenny stood up, brushing off his pants. "Come on, guys, let's go! We don't want to be late for our lecture." Alex nodded, gathering his things. "Yeah, let's head to the faculty. I don't want to miss anything important."

‎As they walked towards the faculty building, Kenny turned to the group and said, "You know, I heard our lecturer is going to be giving us a surprise quiz today." Mike's eyes widened in alarm. "What? No way! I'm not ready for that!"

‎John chuckled. "Don't worry, Mike. We've got your back. Alex smiled, feeling grateful for his friends. "Yeah, we're in this together, guys. Let's go ace that quiz!"

‎As the four friends settled into their seats, Doctor Smith began his lecture on human anatomy, picking up where he had left off the previous day. He wrote on the board, pointing out key structures and explaining their functions. As he lectured, Doctor Smith paused to ask questions, scanning the room to encourage participation. His eyes landed on Kenny, who was busy scribbling notes. "Ah, young man," Doctor Smith said, pointing to Kenny. "Stand up, please." Kenny looked up, startled, and slowly rose to his feet. Doctor Smith asked, "And what is your name, sir?" Kenny replied, "My name is Kenny Oluwaseun Adepoju." Doctor Smith smiled, "Ah, a Nigerian name! Kenny Oluwaseun, can you tell me...what is the function of the mitochondria in cellular respiration?" Kenny hesitated for a moment, looking thoughtful. His friends watched anxiously, willing him to answer correctly. Then, with confidence, Kenny began to explain. "The mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cell," he said. "They generate energy for the cell through cellular respiration, converting glucose into ATP." Doctor Smith beamed with delight. "Excellent answer, Kenny! You have demonstrated a clear understanding of human physiology."

‎Doctor Smith instructed, "Let's give Kenny a round of applause, everyone!"

‎Kenny's face lit up with joy as he sat down, his friends patting him on the back and grinning at him. Alex whispered, "Nice job, Kenny! You're a genius!"

‎Kenny chuckled, looking pleased with himself. "Thanks, guys. I guess all those hours of studying paid off!"As the class came to a close, Kenny, Alex, Mike, and John gathered their belongings and filed out of the lecture hall. They were all smiles, still buzzing from Kenny's impressive performance in class.

‎As they walked out of the faculty building, Mike turned to Kenny and said, "Dude, you were on fire in there! I'm so proud of you!" Kenny chuckled, looking pleased with himself. "Thanks, Mike. I'm just glad I could remember everything."

‎Alex nodded in agreement. "You definitely deserved that round of applause. You're a human anatomy genius!" John added, "And Doctor Smith was impressed, too. I'm sure you'll get an A in that class." The four friends continued to chat and joke as they walked across campus. They decided to grab some lunch at the cafeteria, and as they waited in line, they relived the highlights of the lecture. When they finally got their food, they found a table and sat down to eat. Kenny took a bite of his sandwich and said, "You know, I'm really glad we're all in this together. You guys are the best study group ever!" Mike smiled, his mouth full of food. "We make a pretty good team, don't we?"

‎Alex nodded, taking a sip of his drink. "Definitely. We should start a study group for our other classes, too." John's eyes lit up. "That's a great idea! We could call it 'The Anatomy Squad'!" The others laughed, and Kenny said, "I like it. Let's do it!"As the three friends, Kenny, Mike, and John, walked towards their room in Radia Hostel, they noticed a lady walking out of one of the rooms nearby. She seemed ordinary enough, but Kenny's spiritual eye, honed from his cultural background, picked up on something unusual.

‎Kenny's eyes narrowed slightly as he watched the lady walk by. He could sense that she wasn't quite human, that there was something dark and malevolent lurking beneath her surface. He didn't say anything to his brothers, not wanting to alarm them, but he kept a close eye on the lady as she walked away. As they approached their room, Kenny noticed that the lady seemed to be heading in their direction. He felt a shiver run down his spine as she drew closer, her eyes fixed on them with an unnerving intensity. Kenny's instincts told him to be cautious, but he didn't want to raise any alarms with his friends. Instead, he muttered something under his breath, trying to sound nonchalant. "Let's just get inside, guys. I'm starving." Mike and John didn't notice anything out of the ordinary and nodded in agreement, heading into their room. Kenny followed close behind, his eyes still fixed on the lady, who was now standing outside their room, watching them with an unblinking gaze.

‎As soon as they were inside, Kenny closed the door behind them, his heart racing slightly. He knew that he had just seen something that his friends hadn't, something that didn't belong in their world. But for now, he kept his concerns to himself, not wanting to worry his friends unnecessarily. Mike and John began to relax, flopping down onto their beds. Kenny, however, remained standing, his eyes fixed on the door as if he was waiting for something to happen.

‎Mike noticed Kenny's unusual behavior and raised an eyebrow. "Hey, Kenny, what's up? You look like you've seen a ghost." Kenny forced a laugh, trying to play it cool. "Nah, I'm just tired, that's all. Long day." John nodded sympathetically. "Yeah, I know what you mean. I'm beat too."But John wasn't convinced. He knew Kenny too well, and he could tell that something was bothering him. "Kenny, come on, what's really going on? You're not fooling anyone with that 'tired' act."

‎Kenny hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But before he could say anything, a strange noise echoed from outside their room. It sounded like footsteps, heavy and deliberate, as if someone was trying to make their presence known.The three brothers exchanged nervous glances. Mike's eyes were wide with concern. "What was that?" John's voice was barely above a whisper. "I don't know, but I don't like it." Kenny's eyes were fixed on the door, his heart racing with anticipation. As Kenny continued to gaze out the window, he was surprised to find that the lady was nowhere to be seen. He scanned the surrounding area, but there was no sign of her. Shrugging, he turned away from the window and sat down on his bed, his mind still racing with thoughts of the mysterious lady. Mike and John, oblivious to Kenny's concerns, were busy making themselves some snacks. Mike was rummaging through the fridge, while John was heating up some leftovers in the microwave. Kenny, still lost in thought, didn't notice his friends' activities. His mind was preoccupied with the lady's strange behavior and her unsettling presence. As a Nigerian, Kenny and John came from a culture rich in spiritual traditions and superstitions. His father, a respected elder in their community, had always been sensitive to the supernatural forces that lurked in the shadows. Kenny had inherited his father's gift, and over the years, he had developed a keen sense of awareness that allowed him to detect the presence of malevolent spirits. And he was convinced that the lady he had seen was not of this world. As he sat on his bed, Kenny couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. He felt a sense of unease, a creeping dread that seemed to seep into his bones. Suddenly, he heard a faint whispering in his ear, a soft, raspy voice that seemed to be calling his name.

‎Kenny's heart skipped a beat as he spun around, but there was no one there. The whispering stopped, and an eerie silence fell over the room. Kenny's friends, still oblivious to the strange occurrences, continued to chat and laugh, but Kenny's eyes were fixed on the window, his senses on high alert, waiting for the lady to reappear.As the night wore on, Kenny found himself wide awake, his mind racing with thoughts of the mysterious lady and the strange occurrences that had taken place. He tossed and turned, unable to shake off the feeling of unease that had settled in his stomach. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the first light of dawn began to creep into the room. Kenny was the first to wake up, feeling a sense of relief wash over him as he threw off the covers and got out of bed. He made his way to the bathroom, where he quickly washed up and got dressed. As he sat on his bed, waiting for his brothers to wake up, he couldn't help but think about the events of the previous night. Mike and John, on the other hand, were still fast asleep, oblivious to Kenny's sudden change in behavior. But as they slowly began to stir, they noticed that Kenny was already up and dressed, looking like he had been up for hours. Mike rubbed the sleep from his eyes, looking at Kenny with a mixture of confusion and concern. "Dude, what's going on? Why are you up so early?"

‎John stretched, yawning widely. "Yeah, Kenny, you're starting to freak us out. What's wrong?" Kenny hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. But as he looked at his brothers, he knew that he had to tell them something. "I just couldn't sleep, that's all," he said, trying to downplay the situation. "I had a lot on my mind."

‎Mike and John exchanged skeptical glances, but they didn't push the issue. Instead, they started to get ready for class, chatting and joking as they went about their morning routine. But Kenny couldn't shake off the feeling that something was off. He knew that he had to talk to his brothers about what had happened, but he was afraid of how they would react. Would they believe him, or would they think he was crazy?As Mike and John went into the bathroom to take their bath, Kenny quickly grabbed his phone and dialed his father's number. His father picked up on the first ring, and Kenny could sense the warmth and concern in his voice. "Kenny, my son, how are you?" his father asked. Kenny took a deep breath and began to tell his father about the strange lady he had seen and the eerie feeling that had been following him. His father listened attentively, asking occasional questions to clarify what Kenny was saying. As Kenny finished his story, his father confirmed that he had also been feeling a similar presence, even though they were physically far apart. "Kenny, what you're feeling is real," his father said. "Not everyone you see on campus is of this world. But don't worry, nothing can harm you and your brothers. You're protected." Kenny felt a surge of relief and encouragement at his father's words. He was about to respond when Mike and John emerged from the bathroom, curious about who Kenny was talking to. John's eyes widened as he heard their father's voice on the phone. "Hey, let me talk to Dad!" he exclaimed, snatching the phone from Kenny's hand.

‎Kenny rolled his eyes good-naturedly as John began to chat with their father. Mike looked on, amused by the exchange.

‎As John talked to their father, Kenny couldn't help but feel grateful for the close relationship they shared. He knew that he could always count on his family to support and guide him, no matter what challenges lay ahead.As the two brothers finished their call, they quickly dressed up and joined Kenny, who was already waiting for them. They headed out, walking straight to campus, but Kenny's mind was still preoccupied with the strange occurrences of the previous night. He wasn't his usual self, and his brothers noticed that he was quieter than usual. Mike and John tried to engage Kenny in conversation, but he only responded with brief answers, his mind still elsewhere. They decided to let him be, knowing that he would eventually open up to them. As they walked, they met up with Alex, who was heading to the same lecture. The four friends walked together, chatting and laughing, but Kenny still seemed distant. When they arrived at the lecture room, they found Professor Thompson already seated at the front of the class. The professor greeted them warmly and began to explain the day's lesson. "Today, we'll be having a quiz on basic nursing," Professor Thompson announced, handing out the quiz papers. "I expect you all to do your best. Good luck!" The students nodded, taking their seats and preparing for the quiz. Kenny, still a bit distracted, took a deep breath and focused on the task at hand. He knew he had to push aside his concerns and concentrate on the quiz.

‎As the quiz began, the room fell silent, with only the sound of pens scratching on paper breaking the stillness. Kenny, Mike, John, and Alex worked diligently, determined to ace the quiz. As they turned their papers over to reveal the questions, the four friends exchanged surprised glances. The questions were not what they had expected, and they seemed to be unrelated to the material they had studied in their group sessions. Kenny's eyes scanned the page, his brow furrowed in concern. "What's going on?" he whispered to Mike, who was sitting next to him. "These questions aren't from our notes." Mike shook his head, equally perplexed. "I know, right? I don't recognize any of these questions."

‎John and Alex were equally confused, their faces scrunched up in concentration as they tried to make sense of the questions. As they sat there, staring at the paper in confusion, Professor Thompson's words echoed in their minds: "This is university-level work, not high school. You need to think critically and apply what you've learned." The friends looked at each other, realization dawning on their faces. This was not a simple recall test; it was a test of their critical thinking skills and their ability to apply the concepts they had learned. With newfound determination, they took a deep breath and began to read the questions again, this time with a fresh perspective. They knew it wouldn't be easy, but they were determined to rise to the challenge. As announced by the faculty president earlier in the morning on the chosen class rep ,

‎- Main Male Rep: Tyrone Jackson

‎- Main Female Rep: Sofia Konadu

‎- Male Assistant Rep: Ethan Yeboah

‎- Female Assistant Rep: Maya Patel

‎As the four class reps walked into the lecture room, Tyrone Jackson, the main male rep, took charge, instructing the others on how to collect the papers efficiently. Sofia Konadu the main female rep, helped to coordinate the collection process, ensuring that every student's paper was accounted for.

‎Ethan Yeboah and Maya Patel, the assistant reps, moved from row to row, collecting the papers from each student. As they approached John's desk, Ethan noticed that John was still scribbling away on his paper. "Time's up, buddy," Ethan said with a friendly smile. "Please hand over your paper." John looked up, slightly flustered, but he quickly handed over his paper to Ethan, who added it to the growing stack of papers in his hands.As Professor Thompson dismissed the class, Mike, Kenny, John, and Alex joined the throng of students streaming out of the lecture room. Despite the chaos of the crowd, the four friends were lost in their own thoughts, each wondering how they had performed on the quiz. Mike was the first to break the silence. "Man, I don't know how I did on that quiz. Some of those questions were tough!" Kenny nodded in agreement. "I know, right? I was expecting something totally different. I hope I didn't bomb it." John shook his head, a look of concern etched on his face. "I don't know, guys. I was still writing when they collected our papers. I hope I didn't miss anything important."

‎Alex, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "I'm just glad it's over. Now we just have to wait and see how we did."

‎As they walked out of the lecture room, the four friends couldn't help but speculate about their performance on the quiz. They knew that the results would be posted the next day, and they couldn't wait to find out how they had done.

‎As they merged with the crowd of students flowing out of the building, Mike turned to the others and said, "Hey, let's grab some lunch and discuss our strategy for the next quiz. We can't afford to slack off." Kenny, John, and Alex nodded in agreement, and the four friends set off towards the cafeteria, already planning their next move.As they settled into their seats at the cafeteria, John turned to Alex with a curious expression. "Hey, Alex, what was up with you yesterday? You seemed really down when we asked you about Emily." Alex's expression turned thoughtful, and he hesitated for a moment before responding. "I don't know, guys. I just...I don't know. It's nothing." Mike and Kenny exchanged skeptical glances, sensing that there was more to the story. But before they could press Alex further, Mike's eyes landed on a group of students seated at the other side of the cafeteria. "Hey, look," Mike said, nodding discreetly in the direction of the group. "It's Emily, Angela, and some other friends." Kenny and John followed Mike's gaze, and their eyes landed on Emily, who was laughing and chatting with her friends. Alex's eyes also drifted in that direction, and for a moment, his expression turned wistful. The group fell silent, observing Emily and her friends from afar. Mike was the first to break the silence. "You know, Alex, maybe we should go over there and say hi." Alex's eyes snapped back to his friends, and he shook his head firmly. "No, no, it's okay. Let's just leave her alone." Kenny and John exchanged curious glances, sensing that there was more to Alex's story than he was letting on. But for now, they decided to respect his wishes and leave Emily and her friends alone.As they continued to chat, Mike, Kenny, John, and Alex simultaneously reached for their phones to check the time. They were all relieved to see that they still had a bit of time before their next lecture.

‎"Hey, guys, we should probably get going soon," Mike said, tucking his phone back into his pocket. "Yeah, I don't want to be late for our next class," Kenny agreed.

‎John nodded in agreement. "Especially after what happened in our last class. I'm still trying to wrap my head around those questions." Alex frowned, his brow furrowed in concern. "I know, right? I'm starting to think that this semester is going to be a lot tougher than we anticipated." As they walked to their next lecture, the four friends couldn't help but speculate about what might happen next. They were all on edge, wondering if they would be able to keep up with the demanding coursework. "I'm telling you, guys, we need to step up our game," Mike said, his voice filled with determination. "We can't afford to fall behind."

‎Kenny nodded in agreement. "You're right, Mike. We need to work together and support each other if we're going to make it through this semester."

‎John and Alex nodded in agreement, and the four friends continued to chat and strategize as they walked to their next lecture. As the four friends walked into the lecture hall, they were greeted by a lively and energetic figure. Professor Egembaire, a man in his mid-fifties with a wild shock of gray hair, bounded into the room, a wide smile spreading across his face. "Good morning, everyone!" he boomed, his voice echoing off the walls. "I am Professor Egembaire, and I will be your lecturer for Professional Adjustment. I must say, I'm thrilled to finally meet you all in person. I've heard a lot about you, but unfortunately, I've had to cancel class a few times due to unforeseen circumstances." The class erupted into laughter, and the four friends exchanged amused glances. They had heard a lot about Professor Egembaire's antics, but they had never had the pleasure of meeting him until now. As Professor Egembaire began to lecture, he regaled the class with a story about the importance of professional adjustment in the workplace. "You see, my dear students," he said, "professional adjustment is not just about adapting to a new work environment. It's about being able to navigate the complexities of human relationships, to communicate effectively, and to build strong relationships with your colleagues."

‎The class listened with rapt attention, eager to learn more about professional adjustment. Professor Egembaire went on to explain the different types of professional adjustment, including social adjustment, emotional adjustment, and cognitive adjustment. As the lecture drew to a close, Professor Egembaire asked the class if they had any questions.

‎There was no hands up , and the four friends exchanged impressed glances. They were thrilled to have Professor Egembaire as their lecturer and couldn't wait to learn more about professional adjustment.As the lecture came to a close, the four friends - Mike, Kenny, John, and Alex - breathed a collective sigh of relief. They had been expecting a grueling session, but Professor Egembaire's engaging lecture had made the time fly by. With their last lecture of the day over, the friends found themselves with a rare chunk of free time. It was around 4 PM, and they had nothing planned until the next day. "Hey, guys, what do you say we grab some sports kits and head to the football pitch?" Mike suggested, a mischievous glint in his eye. Kenny and John were immediately on board, but Alex hesitated. "I'm not really prepared," he said, looking down at his clothes.

‎Mike waved his hand dismissively. "Don't worry about it, Alex. We'll lend you some pants and boots. You can join us, and we'll play together." The four friends headed back to their hostel, eager to change into their sports gear and hit the pitch. As they walked, they chatted excitedly about their plans for the evening. Once they reached the hostel, they quickly changed into their sports kits and grabbed their football gear. Alex was handed a pair of pants and some boots, and he grinned gratefully at his friends.

‎With their gear in hand, the four friends set off towards the football pitch, ready to unwind and have some fun after a long day of lectures.As the two teams faced off on the football pitch, Alex, Mike, Kenny, and John, along with their two new teammates, were determined to give it their all. The opposing team, equally enthusiastic, was ready to put up a good fight. The match began, and the two teams clashed in a flurry of kicks, passes, and tackles. Alex, Mike, Kenny, and John moved in perfect sync, their movements fluid and coordinated. It was as if they had been playing together for years, not just minutes. As they played, Emily, who was walking by with Angela and their other friends nearby, caught sight of the match. Her eyes scanned the field, and then landed on Alex, who was expertly passing the ball to Kenny. Emily's eyes lit up, and she excitedly nudged her friends.

‎"Hey, guys, come check this out!" Emily exclaimed, already walking towards the pitch. "There's a great game going on!"

‎Angela and their other friends followed Emily, curious about the commotion. As they approached the pitch, they saw Alex, Mike, Kenny, and John in action, their skills on full display. The group watched in awe, cheering and chanting as the match intensified. Emily couldn't take her eyes off Alex, who was playing with a passion and energy she had never seen before. The match was neck and neck, with both teams refusing to give up. But as the game wore on, Alex, Mike, Kenny, and John's teamwork and strategy began to pay off. They scored goal after goal, their opponents struggling to keep up.

‎As the final whistle blew, Alex, Mike, Kenny, and John's team erupted in cheers, triumphant in their victory. Emily and her friends joined in, congratulating the winning team on their impressive performance.As Alex walked off the pitch, Emily approached him, a bright smile on her face. "Hey, Alex! Congratulations on your win! You guys played amazingly!" Alex forced a smile, not really interested in chatting with Emily. "Thanks, Emily. We just got lucky, I guess." Emily's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I don't think it was just luck! You guys were incredible! So, what's your secret?" Alex shrugged, trying to brush her off. "No secret, Emily. We just played our game." Emily pressed on, asking more questions, but Alex's responses grew increasingly brief. Finally, he excused himself, saying, "Hey, Emily, I've got to go celebrate with my friends. Catch you later!" As Alex walked away, he merged into the crowd, his eyes scanning the sea of faces. That's when he saw her – the mysterious girl he had seen at his uncle's office. She was standing with a young guy, laughing and chatting, and they were holding hands. Alex's eyes widened in surprise, and he felt a pang of... something. He couldn't quite put his finger on it. He stood there, frozen, taking in the scene. Kenny, Mike, and John approached him, grinning from ear to ear. "Yo, Alex! What's up, man? You're staring off into space!" Alex snapped back to reality, feeling a bit disoriented. "Uh, nothing, guys. Just... just enjoying the moment." Kenny raised an eyebrow. "You sure? You looked like you'd seen a ghost!"Alex shook his head, trying to brush off the feeling. "Nah, I'm fine. Let's just head back to the hostel." As they walked, Alex's mind kept drifting back to the girl. Who was she? And why did he keep thinking about her? He felt a pang of disappointment, realizing she was already with someone. But then, a glimmer of hope rose up. If she was on campus, he might see her again. And maybe, just maybe, he could find out who she was and why she had captured his attention.‎ Alex changed out of his sports gear and grabbed his bag, his friends Kenny, Mike, and John accompanied him to the taxi rank. Along the way, they chatted and asked Alex a few questions. "Hey, Alex, what's going on with you and Emily?" Kenny asked, curiosity etched on his face. "You two used to be inseparable, but lately, you've been distant." Alex's expression turned somber, and he hesitated before speaking. "It's just...I don't know, guys. I think I've just realized that Emily and I aren't as close as I thought." Mike and John exchanged concerned glances. "What do you mean?" Mike asked, his voice gentle.

‎Alex took a deep breath before continuing. "Remember that day we all went to the restaurant? Emily excused herself, and I did too. I went to the washroom , but when I came out, I saw Emily with another guy. They were standing in the corner, chatting, and then...they kissed." The group fell silent, the only sound being the rustling of leaves beneath their feet. Kenny, Mike, and John looked at each other, understanding dawning on their faces.

‎"No wonder you've been acting differently around Emily," John said, his voice barely above a whisper.

‎The group walked in silence for a moment, the mood somber. As they approached the taxi rank, Kenny spoke up. "Hey, Alex, we're here for you, man. If you need to talk or just need some company, we're here." Mike and John nodded in agreement, and the four friends shared a moment of solidarity before Alex climbed into a taxi and headed off. Mike, Kenny, and John walked back to the hostel, they couldn't help but discuss the revelation about Emily. "I'm still trying to wrap my head around it," Mike said, shaking his head. "Emily seems like such a nice girl. Why would she do that to Alex?" Kenny nodded in agreement. "I know, right? She's always been so sweet around Alex, and it's clear he really liked her. But I guess you never really know what's going on behind closed doors." John chimed in, "And it's not like Alex isn't a great guy. He's one of the nicest people I know. You'd think Emily would appreciate him."

‎The three friends walked in silence for a moment, each lost in their own thoughts.

‎"I'm just glad we finally understand why Alex has been acting so differently around Emily," Mike said, breaking the silence. "It's been really weird, and we've been wondering what was going on."

‎Kenny nodded. "Yeah, it's like he's been hurt or something. And now we know why." John shook his head. "I don't get it, man. Why do girls do that? Can't they see how much they're hurting someone?"

‎Mike and Kenny just shrugged, and the three friends continued walking back to the hostel, still chatting and trying to make sense of the situation. Alex sat in the taxi, the smooth melodies of Kwabena Kwabena hit song filled the air, but Alex's mind was elsewhere. He was lost in thought, replaying the events that had unfolded that day. The memory of Emily kissing another guy flashed before his eyes, and he couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. The taxi driver's voice broke the silence, "We're here, sir." Alex looked around, disoriented, and realized they had arrived at his destination. The driver lowered the music and reminded Alex, "Sir, this is your stop." Alex snapped back to reality, apologized, and paid the fare. As he stepped out of the taxi, he was greeted by the sound of laughter and playful shouts. A group of kids were playing football behind the road, and as Alex walked by, the ball came rolling towards him.

‎Without hesitation, Alex picked up the ball, flashed a warm smile at the kids, and tossed the ball back to them. The kids cheered, and Alex continued on his way home, the brief encounter lifting his spirits slightly. As he walked, the music from the taxi still lingered in his mind, but the fresh air and the sound of children's laughter helped to clear his head. Alex couldn't help but wonder what the future held, but for now, he just took one step at a time, letting the rhythm of life guide him. Alex stepped into the familiar warmth of his home, a sense of melancholy settled over him like a shroud. He dropped his bag onto the couch, the thud echoing through the silence. With a sigh, he sank into the armchair, his eyes drifting listlessly around the room. His uncle, sensing his nephew's distress, emerged from the kitchen, a look of concern etched on his face. "Alex, my boy, come help me in the kitchen. We need to cook dinner."

‎Alex hesitated, but his uncle's gentle tone coaxed him out of his reverie. He rose from the chair, his movements slow and mechanical, and trailed behind his uncle into the kitchen. As they began to prepare the meal, the aroma of onions and garlic wafting through the air, Alex's uncle asked, "What's troubling you, Alex? You seem a bit down." Alex shrugged, his eyes fixed on the chopping board. "It's just..a friend. I thought we had something, but I guess I was wrong." His uncle nodded sympathetically, his eyes filled with understanding. "I know how it feels, Alex. I've been there too. But sometimes, it's better to let go and move on." As they continued to cook, the silence between them was filled with the sizzle of vegetables and the gentle simmer of the stew. Alex's uncle expertly guided the conversation, sharing stories of his own experiences, and offering words of wisdom. Finally, the meal was ready, and Alex's uncle instructed him to go take a fresh bath and change into something comfortable. Alex nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude towards his uncle, and headed off to refresh himself.As they sat behind the table, savoring the delicious meal, Uncle John's eyes twinkled with wisdom as he began to speak in a proverbial tone. "A river does not stop flowing because of a single stone, Alex. You are young, and life is full of twists and turns. You're in your first year, first semester, and you've already encountered a setback. But don't let it hold you back." Alex listened intently, his heart absorbing every word."Remember she or he is just a friend, a chapter in the book of your life. Don't get stuck on one page, Alex. Keep turning, and you'll find that the story gets more interesting. Focus on your studies, nurture your friendships, and the right people will come along." Uncle John's voice resonated deep within Alex's heart, and he felt a sense of clarity wash over him. He smiled, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. "A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor, Alex," Uncle John continued. "You'll face challenges, but it's how you respond that matters. Keep your eyes on the horizon, and you'll find that the sun will rise again, brighter than before."

‎Alex nodded, feeling a sense of determination rise within him. He knew that he still had a long way to go, but with his uncle's wisdom guiding him. As Alex sat quietly, listening to his uncle's words of wisdom, he began to clear the table, loading the dishes into the kitchen. His uncle continued to chat, not noticing that Alex's attention had begun to wander.

‎Just then, Alex's phone buzzed, and he glanced down to see Emily's name flashing on the screen. He hesitated for a moment, wondering whether to answer or ignore the call.

‎"Hey, Alex," Emily's voice chimed in, as Alex reluctantly picked up the phone.

‎"Hey, Emily," Alex replied, his tone flat and unenthusiastic. "I was just calling to check in and see how you're doing," Emily said, her voice dripping with sweetness.

‎Alex shrugged, even though Emily couldn't see him. "I'm fine, thanks. Just busy with schoolwork." The conversation felt forced. He responded monosyllabically, his answers brief and lacking enthusiasm.

‎Emily, sensing Alex's detachment, tried to steer the conversation towards lighter topics, but Alex remained unresponsive. The conversation dragged on, with Alex's replies becoming increasingly curt.

‎It was clear that Alex's heart was no longer in the conversation, and Emily eventually picked up on the cues, wrapping up the call with a hasty excuse. As Alex hung up the phone, he felt a sense of relief wash over him, grateful to be free from the awkward conversation.

‎As he reflected on their conversation, Alex's thoughts turned to the next day. He remembered that he had a big exam coming up, and he needed to focus on his studies. With renewed determination, Alex decided to put the events of the day behind him and concentrate on his goals. Tomorrow was a new day, full of fresh possibilities.

‎Angela's expression turned serious as she listened to Emily's concerns. "What do you mean? What did he say?" Angela asked, her voice laced with worry.

‎Emily sighed, relaying the details of their conversation. "I don't know, Angela. He just seemed really distant and uninterested. His responses were so brief and curt. It was like he didn't even want to talk to me." Angela's brow furrowed in concern. "That doesn't sound like Alex at all. He's always been so sweet and chatty. Something must be bothering him."

‎Emily nodded in agreement. "I know, right? That's why I'm so worried. I feel like I've done something to upset him, but I don't know what." Angela's expression turned thoughtful. "Maybe we should try to talk to him together? See if we can figure out what's going on?"

‎Emily's eyes widened in agreement. "Yes, that's a great idea! Let's try to get to the bottom of this."Angela's question hung in the air, and Emily's expression changed to one of sadness and guilt. She knew exactly what Angela was insinuating.

‎"Don't you think Alex has found out about you and Frank?" Angela asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Emily's eyes dropped, and she nodded slowly. She knew that she had been keeping a secret from Alex, and it was only a matter of time before he found out. Frank was a nice gentleman who Emily had met on her first day of school. He had helped her with her belongings, and they had exchanged numbers. Over time, they had started a romantic relationship, but Emily had kept it a secret from Alex, not wanting to hurt his feelings. ‎But now, it seemed that Alex had discovered the truth, and Emily couldn't blame him for being distant and cold towards her. She felt a pang of guilt and regret, knowing that she had hurt someone she cared about.Emily's eyes widened in distress as she frantically searched for Alex's contact information. She was determined to reach out to him, to apologize and explain herself. But as she tried to text him, her hands trembled, and her mind went blank. Just as she was about to call him, Angela intervened, gently but firmly taking the phone out of Emily's hand. "Calm down, Emily. You're not thinking clearly right now. Let's talk to Alex tomorrow, okay? We'll figure out what's going on and sort everything out."

‎Emily looked up at Angela, her eyes brimming with tears. She nodded slowly, feeling a mix of relief and frustration. She knew Angela was right, but she couldn't shake off the feeling that she needed to talk to Alex now. As Angela led her away from the phone, Emily felt a sense of desperation wash over her. She collapsed onto the couch, feeling overwhelmed and defeated. Angela sat down beside her, wrapping a comforting arm around her shoulders. "It'll be okay, Emily," Angela whispered. "We'll get through this together."Emily lay on the bed, lost in thought, the sudden ringing of her phone pierced the silence. She hesitated for a moment before picking it up, her heart racing with anticipation. But her face fell as she saw Frank's name flashing on the screen. She quickly put the phone back down, feeling a pang of guilt and anxiety. She didn't want to talk to Frank right now, not when she was still reeling from the events of the day. Angela, who was lying awake on the adjacent bed, watched Emily with concern. She saw the worry etched on Emily's face, the tension in her body. Angela knew that Emily was struggling to sleep, and she wanted to help. As the phone continued to ring, Angela gently got up and walked over to Emily. Angela's expression turned serious as she looked at Emily. "Em, I need to ask you something," Angela said, her voice gentle but probing. "Do you have feelings for Alex? I mean, romantic feelings?"

‎Emily's eyes widened, and she looked taken aback by the question. She hesitated, unsure of how to respond.

‎Angela's gaze remained steady, her eyes searching for the truth. "I ask because your reaction to Alex's behavior seems... intense. If you don't have feelings for him, then we can just write off his behavior as him being upset about your relationship with Frank. But if you do have feelings for Alex, then that changes things."

‎Angela's words hung in the air, waiting for Emily's response. Emily's face was a picture of uncertainty, her emotions written clearly across her features.Angela's words poured out in a gentle stream, her voice filled with empathy and understanding. "Ever since you told me about Alex, I've noticed that there's a connection between you two. I've seen the way you look at each other, the way you interact. There's a spark there, Em, and I think you know it too." Angela's eyes locked onto Emily's, her gaze searching for confirmation. "I'm not saying that you're in love with him or anything, but I think there's something there that's worth exploring. And if you're feeling confused or uncertain, that's okay. It's normal to feel that way when you're developing feelings for someone." Angela's voice dropped to a whisper, her words taking on a conspiratorial tone. "But what if you do have feelings for him, Em? What if this is something real? Are you willing to take the risk and see where things go?"Emily's mind was a jumble of emotions as she lay on the couch, trying to process Angela's question. Was she in love with Alex? Or was it just a feeling? She thought about Frank, and how she had gotten to know him better. They had spent time together, laughed together, and shared stories. And yet, when she thought about Alex, she felt a flutter in her chest. As she lay there, Emily's thoughts drifted back to the restaurant, where Frank had kissed her for the first time. She had been taken aback, but she had also felt a spark of attraction. But was it the same spark she felt when she thought about Alex?

‎Emily's eyes remained fixed on the ceiling, her mind racing with questions and doubts. She couldn't shake off the feeling that she was torn between two people, and she didn't know which way to turn.

‎As the minutes ticked by, Emily's eyelids began to droop, but she couldn't sleep. She was aware of Angela's presence, even though her friend had fallen asleep. Emily's gaze drifted towards Angela, who was lying on her bed, facing Emily's direction. Emily smiled softly, grateful for her friend's concern and support. But as she looked at Angela, Emily's thoughts returned to Alex, and she wondered if he knew anything about Frank and her.Angela gently shook Emily's shoulder again, trying to rouse her from her deep slumber. But Emily didn't budge, her body remaining limp and unresponsive.

‎Angela's expression turned from concern to amusement as she realized that Emily was sleeping more soundly than usual. She smiled, thinking that maybe Emily had finally found some peace after the emotional turmoil of the previous day.

‎Angela decided to let Emily sleep for a while longer, knowing that she needed the rest. She quietly got dressed and headed to the kitchen to make some breakfast, leaving Emily to sleep undisturbed. As Angela cooked and prepared breakfast, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and toast wafted through the air, filling the apartment with a warm and inviting scent. But Emily remained fast asleep, oblivious to the delicious smells and the new day that had begun. Emily slowly opened her eyes, groggily taking in her surroundings. She rubbed her temples, feeling a dull headache lingering from the previous night's emotional turmoil. As she sat up, she noticed the sunlight streaming through the window, and her heart sank. She had overslept, and it was already morning.