Chapter Thirty: Crossroads
The new year brought with it a sense of anticipation and change. James sat at his desk, flipping through college brochures and financial reports, feeling the weight of the decision ahead of him. At 18, he had more options than most—his investments had grown, his businesses were thriving, and yet, the question remained: should he pursue higher education or focus entirely on building his empire?
The familiar hum of his desk lamp cast a soft glow over the room as he stared at the stack of papers in front of him. Columbia, NYU, and even Stanford had sent acceptance letters, each one offering a promising future. Yet, his mind kept drifting back to FutureNet, the vending machine business, and the stock market gains he had achieved over the past two years.
---
A Conversation with Tommy
That afternoon, Tommy knocked on James's door and strolled in, eyeing the cluttered desk. "So, have you figured out what's next?" he asked, flopping onto James's bed.
James sighed, rubbing his temples. "It's not that simple. College could give me credibility, connections, and maybe even open doors I can't see right now. But... I've already got something real going on."
Tommy nodded thoughtfully. "Yeah, but think about this—college isn't just about degrees. It's about expanding your network, meeting people who could take you to the next level. You could do both, you know."
James leaned back in his chair, considering his brother's words. "I just don't want to slow down," he admitted. "I feel like I'm on the verge of something big."
Tommy smirked. "You're always on the verge of something big, little bro."
---
Seeking Advice from Robert and Margaret
Later that evening, James sat with his parents in the living room. Margaret was knitting while Robert read the newspaper, but both of them looked up expectantly when James cleared his throat.
"So... I wanted to talk to you both about college," he began.
Margaret's eyes lit up. "Of course, honey! We're so proud of you. Have you made a decision?"
James hesitated. "Not yet. Part of me wants to go, but another part of me thinks I should focus on my businesses. I know I can grow them, maybe even faster if I'm not tied down by classes."
Robert set his paper down and looked at James seriously. "Son, college isn't just about classes. It's about learning discipline, meeting people who might change your life, and having experiences that will shape you into a better businessman."
Margaret nodded. "And remember, you're still young, James. You have time to build your empire, but you'll only have one chance to experience college life."
James listened intently, appreciating their wisdom. He knew they only wanted the best for him, and their words gave him more to think about.
---
A Walk with Lily
The next day, James met Lily at Central Park, the cold winter air nipping at their cheeks. She was bundled up in a thick coat, her hands wrapped around a cup of hot chocolate.
"So," she said, nudging him playfully, "which path is the brilliant James Smith going to take?"
James smiled, but his eyes were filled with uncertainty. "I don't know yet. College feels like the right thing to do, but I've already learned so much from experience."
Lily took a sip of her drink and thought for a moment. "James, you've always been good at thinking ten steps ahead. Maybe you can do both—college and business. Or at least give yourself a chance to see what it's like before deciding."
James chuckled. "You always make things sound so simple."
"That's because they usually are," she said with a grin.
As they continued walking, James realized that no matter which path he chose, having the support of his loved ones made all the difference.
---
The Decision
That night, James sat in his room, staring at his acceptance letters and financial statements side by side. Finally, he picked up a pen and made his decision.
The next morning at breakfast, he placed the Columbia University acceptance letter on the table. "I'm going to give it a shot," he said.
Margaret clapped her hands in excitement, and Robert gave him a proud nod. Tommy grinned. "You're gonna kill it, bro."
James smiled, feeling a sense of excitement and determination. He would attend college, but he wouldn't let go of his dreams. He would find a way to do both—and succeed at them all.
---