Chapter Five: New Beginnings Ain’t Easy

Maya thought quitting her job would feel like the end of something, but as she stepped onto the busy streets of Harlem, it felt more like the beginning. The city pulsed around her—cars honked, music spilled from open shop doors, and people moved with purpose. 

For the first time in years, she wasn't rushing anywhere. 

But freedom came with fear. 

Her paycheck? Gone. 

Her health insurance? Expiring in thirty days. 

Her dream? Still just an idea. 

The reality of what she had done hit her like cold water. What now? 

She didn't have an office. She didn't have investors. All she had was an idea and a fire in her chest that refused to burn out. 

Pulling out her phone, she texted Zora. 

Maya: I did it. I quit.

Zora: Finally! Drinks at my place tonight to celebrate.

Maya: More like drinks to plan, because girl… I need a plan.