THE SUMMER WE MET

THE WRONG SEAT

The programme director spent the morning explaining the academy.

There would be workshops, team challenges, presentations and one final innovation competition.

"The winning team," she announced, "will receive funding to develop its idea further."

The room erupted with excitement.

Amara's attention sharpened.

Funding.

That changed everything.

She immediately wrote it down.

Daniel leaned over.

"You're taking notes like your life depends on it."

"It might."

He laughed.

"You always this serious?"

"Are you always this distracting?"

"Usually."

Amara shook her head.

The instructor began discussing artificial intelligence and entrepreneurship.

For the next hour, Amara concentrated completely.

Then the instructor announced the first activity.

"Everyone will form groups of four."

Students immediately started moving their chairs.

Amara turned to Teni, a girl she'd met during registration.

"Want to work together?"

"Definitely."

They found two other students.

Daniel appeared beside them.

"Can I join?"

Amara looked at him.

"No."

Teni laughed.

Daniel looked amused rather than offended.

"Why?"

"Because."

"Excellent reason."

Teni whispered, "You two are already arguing."

"We're not arguing," Amara said.

"We're having a disagreement."

Daniel nodded seriously.

"Very professional disagreement."

Amara tried not to smile.

She failed.

Daniel noticed.

"There it is."

"What?"

"You smiled."

"No, I didn't."

"You definitely did."

"Focus on the activity."

"Yes, boss."

Amara rolled her eyes.

But for the first time that morning, she wasn't annoyed.