Chapter 59 – The Storm Within

George's letter had barely dried in the pages of his notebook when news reached the Green household—Silvercity University was launching a competitive youth innovation program, and George had been selected as the youngest finalist. It was an incredible honor, one that had the potential to open countless doors, but it came with a difficult twist: the challenge was to be completed in teams.

George's heart sank.

He had always worked alone. His trust was hard-earned and selectively given. Mariana had been his quiet partner in life, but this required full collaboration with strangers—some older, some ambitious, and not all kind.

At dinner, Lucia gently placed the letter of acceptance beside his plate. "This is big, sweetheart. You were chosen out of hundreds," she said, beaming with pride.

John nodded. "You've got what it takes. And working in a team… it might surprise you."

George forced a smile, but later that night, the weight settled in. He sat on the floor of his room, knees hugged to his chest. "What if they don't listen to me?" he whispered into the silence. "What if I fail?"

Mariana entered with a soft knock, holding two mugs of warm cocoa. She didn't ask what was wrong—she already knew. She sat beside him, her shoulder brushing his, offering comfort in quiet company.

"You're not alone, George," she said gently. "Even if you don't know them yet, your team could become something meaningful. Like… a second family."

He looked up at her, eyes vulnerable. "I trust you. But no one else."

"Then start small," she replied, placing the cocoa in his hands. "Lead by being yourself. The rest will follow."

George nodded slowly, the first flicker of determination sparking in his chest. Maybe this wasn't just a challenge. Maybe it was another piece of the journey his mother had started for him.

And he was ready to continue it.