Chapter 21: Exploring New Paths

The weeks after the assembly felt different. The school had finally agreed to discuss implementing better recycling and environmental policies, thanks to the overwhelming student support. Maya had done it—she had made them listen. And standing beside her the whole time had been Liam.

But as the excitement settled, both of them found themselves thinking about what came next.

For Liam, music had become more than just a hobby. The talent show and assembly performance had shown him that people actually cared about what he had to say through his songs. One evening, Ethan brought up an idea that made his heart race.

"Dude, you should record your songs. Post them online. Get your music out there."

Liam hesitated. "I don't know… what if no one listens?"

Ethan rolled his eyes. "You thought no one would listen at the talent show too, remember? And look what happened."

Liam chewed his lip, considering it. Maybe it was time to stop hiding.

Meanwhile, Maya was caught up in the excitement of their success, but she also knew this was just the beginning. One night, she stayed up late researching environmental summer programs and internships. Her dream of making a real difference in the world felt closer than ever.

But there was a nagging thought in the back of her mind—what would happen after high school? She had always assumed she'd go wherever the best opportunities took her. But now… there was Liam.

One afternoon, they sat on the school bleachers, watching the sky shift into hues of orange and pink.

"So, what's next for you?" Maya asked, nudging Liam lightly.

He shrugged. "Ethan thinks I should record my songs. Maybe put them online."

Maya's eyes lit up. "You should! Liam, your music is incredible. People need to hear it."

He smiled, her enthusiasm infectious. "What about you? Any new plans to take over the world?"

She laughed but then grew thoughtful. "I've been looking into some environmental programs. Some are out of state. Some are even international."

Liam's chest tightened slightly, but he forced a smile. "That's amazing, Maya. You'd be perfect for something like that."

She looked at him closely, as if searching for something. "Yeah… I just don't know what that means for, well… us."

The air between them grew heavier. They had been so caught up in the present, neither of them had really thought about the future.

Liam reached for her hand. "We'll figure it out."

She squeezed his fingers gently. "Yeah. We will."

For now, that was enough.

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To be continued…

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