Chapter 1

Growing up, it was just us – me, Alex, an 18-year-old trying to figure out life, and my folks, Sarah and David, my anchors in this crazy journey.

Dad's job shook things up, pushing us to a new house in a mostly Black neighborhood. It was a big shift, and I didn't realize then how much it would change my view of the world.

Looking ahead to the new school, I felt a rush of excitement about making friends. Waiting in the car for Mom, I couldn't help but bubble with joy, anticipating the chance to connect in this new place. It was a burst of hope in the midst of school challenges and the quest for friendships.

Finally, Mom arrived at the car, a beacon of warmth and determination. Today was important; she had to meet the principal. I noticed her wearing a stunning outfit, a long, beautiful dress that radiated elegance. In that moment, she seemed like a superhero, ready to conquer the challenges that lay ahead.

Arriving at the school, Mom parked the car, and we strolled together through the hallway towards the principal's office. As we walked, I couldn't help but notice the curious glances from other kids. It felt like we were aliens in a world unfamiliar to them, our presence sparking intrigue and speculation. Yet, with Mom by my side, her graceful stride and confidence made our journey through the scrutinizing gazes a bit more bearable.

We took a seat in a line of chairs, waiting outside the principal's office. As the anticipation lingered, another kid joined us, settling down next to Mom. His presence seemed more obligatory than voluntary, hinting at a potential encounter with the principal for some disciplinary matter. The atmosphere became charged with a mix of curiosity and apprehension, our shared wait amplifying the unspoken tension in the air.

Suddenly, the tall black kid seated next to Mom broke the tension by striking up a conversation. With a friendly smile, he introduced himself and started asking questions about us. The initial awkwardness transformed into a more relaxed atmosphere as we shared snippets of our story, bridging the gap between strangers in that school hallway. It was a surprising turn, bringing a sense of connection amid the nerve-wracking wait outside the principal's office.

**Marcus:** Hey, I'm Marcus. New around here?

**Mom:** Hi, Marcus. Yes, we just moved. I'm Sarah, and this is my son, Alex.

**Marcus:** Nice to meet you both! What brings you to our school?

**Mom:** My husband's job, actually. It led us to this neighborhood.

**Marcus:** Cool. How are you finding it so far?

**Mom:** It's different, but we're adjusting. How about you? Are you a regular visitor to the principal's office?

**Marcus (laughs):** Nah, just some minor stuff. Got caught skipping class. What about you guys?

**Mom (smiles):** Oh, we're just here for a meet-and-greet with the principal. Starting fresh and all.

**Marcus:** Well, good luck with that. If you need any help navigating this place, just let me know.

**Mom:** Thank you, Marcus. That's very kind of you.

Entering the principal's office, we were greeted by a warm smile from the older gentleman. He welcomed Mom and me, his presence instantly putting us at ease. As we settled in, he took a moment to compliment Mom's appearance, expressing admiration for her beauty. The principal, an older black man, exuded a genuine kindness that transcended the typical formalities of such meetings. It became apparent that behind the stern role of an authority figure, there was a person who appreciated and acknowledged the positive aspects of those who entered his office.

**Principal:** Welcome! I'm Mr. Johnson. Sarah, was it?

**Mom:** Yes, Mr. Johnson. Nice to meet you.

**Principal:** Pleasure's mine. So, new in town? Whereabouts are you folks living?

**Mom:** We just moved into the Reynolds Street area.

**Principal:** Ah, a lovely neighborhood. Now, are you married, Sarah?

**Mom:** Yes, happily married. My husband, David, couldn't make it today due to work commitment

**Principal:** Understandable. How's he finding the new job?

**Mom:** It's been a bit challenging with the recent move, but he's adjusting.

**Principal:** Good to hear. And young man, how's the transition for you?

**Me:** It's different, but I'm optimistic about making new friends.

**Principal:** Fantastic attitude. If you ever need guidance or support, my door is always open. Anything else you'd like to share about your family?

**Mom:** Not much else, Mr. Johnson. Just looking forward to settling in and being part of this community.

The conversation unfolded smoothly, with Mr. Johnson displaying a genuine interest in our well-being, making the principal's office feel less like a daunting place and more like a space for open communication.

**Principal:** Sarah, may I ask what you do for a living?

**Mom:** I'm a housewife, Mr. Johnson. Taking care of the family and making sure everything runs smoothly at home.

**Principal:** A vital role indeed. It's wonderful to have someone dedicated to creating a supportive environment for the family. If there's anything you need or if you'd like to get involved in school activities, feel free to let me know.

**Mom:** Thank you, Mr. Johnson. I appreciate that. We're looking forward to being a part of the community.

As we prepared to leave, Marcus unexpectedly walked into the principal's office. His easygoing demeanor brought a sense of familiarity, and it seemed like he was well acquainted with the school environment. It was a pleasant surprise, bridging the gap between the initial awkwardness of being newcomers and the prospect of finding a friendly face in this unfamiliar setting.

The principal shared the news that Marcus would be in my new class, and Mom's face lit up with joy. She couldn't hide her happiness and, in the spur of the moment, asked Marcus to be my friend. Though I felt a bit embarrassed, Marcus agreed with a smile, and to my surprise, I found myself genuinely happy about it.

**Principal:** Marcus, you'll be in Alex's new class.

**Mom (excitedly):** Oh, that's wonderful news! Marcus, would you mind being Alex's friend and helping him settle in?

**Marcus (smiling):** Of course! I'd be happy to, Mrs. [Last Name].

**Mom:** Please, call me Sarah. And thank you, Marcus. It means a lot.

**Marcus:** No problem, happy to help out.

In a heartwarming turn, Mom surprised us both with a long, friendly hug, sealing the beginning of an unexpected friendship in this new school adventure.

Exiting the principal's office, I noticed Marcus and the principal exchanging a high-five, their celebratory gesture hinting at the positive news shared inside. It seemed like everyone was genuinely happy about the newfound connection and the potential for friendship.

**Me:** Mom, today was pretty good at school. Marcus helped me get to know everyone, and he's super friendly.

**Mom:** That's wonderful to hear, Alex! How did it go?

**Me:** Well, he introduced me to his friends, and they were really nice. We even played some basketball duringlunch. Marcus is incredible at it!

**Mom:** It sounds like you're making friends already. I'm glad Marcus is there for you.

**Me (smiling):** Yeah, he's a great guy. And the best part? He's really good at basketball. I bet he could teach me a few tricks.

**Mom (laughs):** Well, it looks like you found your way around, thanks to Marcus. I'm happy you're settling in, Alex.

**Mom:** Alex, did Marcus happen to mention anything about me during school?

**Me:** Oh, Mom, he talks about you all the time! He mentioned how friendly and welcoming you are.

**Mom (smiling):** Really? That's sweet of him.

**Me:** Yeah, he even said you have this positive vibe that makes everyone feel comfortable.

**Mom (blushing):** Well, I'm glad he thinks that way. It's nice to know he talks about our family.

**Me:** Mom, you won't believe it. Marcus told his entire basketball team about you.

**Mom (surprised):** Really? What did he say?

**Me:** I'm not sure; I didn't catch all the details. But it seems like they were excited to meet you.

**Mom (laughs):** Well, I'll have to make sure to meet them soon.

...

**Me:** Hey, Dad, I was thinking... Can I join the basketball team at school?

**Dad:** Basketball, huh? That sounds like a great idea. What brought this on?

**Me:** Well, I met this guy, Marcus, at school. He's on the team, and we played a bit during lunch. It was fun, and I thought it could be a cool thing to try.

**Dad:** Marcus, huh? Sounds like you're making friends. Sure, give it a shot! I'm all for you trying new things.

**Me:** Dad, Mom actually knows Marcus quite well.

**Dad:** Really? How so?

**Me (looking at Mom):** Well, they chatted at the school, and Marcus even told his basketball team about her.

**Dad (curious):** That's interesting. What did you two talk about?

**Mom (changing the subject):** Oh, just general stuff. How was your day at work, dear?

She skillfully shifted the conversation, leaving the details between her and Marcus a mystery.

It's been a fantastic two days at school, and Marcus has become my best friend. I'm thinking about asking him to come over and play some video games soon. The idea of bonding beyond school sounds like the perfect way to solidify our newfound friendship.

I mustered up the courage to ask Marcus if I could join the basketball team. He chuckled and said I didn't have the strength for it. It was a bit disappointing to hear, but perhaps it's an opportunity to prove him wrong and work on my skills in the future.

After a moment's thought, Marcus suggested that I could be the waterboy for the basketball team. Surprisingly, I felt a surge of happiness at the idea. It might not be playing, but being part of the team in any capacity was a welcomed opportunity.

Excited by the idea, Marcus suggested we go to the principal immediately and inquire about my role as the basketball team's waterboy. We wasted no time and headed to the principal's office, ready to turn this newfound enthusiasm into a reality.

**Principal:** Ah, Alex, how's your beautiful mom doing?

**Me:** She's doing well, Mr. Johnson. Thanks for asking.

**Marcus:** We actually came here with an idea, Mr. Johnson. Alex wants to be the waterboy for the basketball team.

**Principal (smiling):** That's a fantastic idea! Staying involved with the team is a great way to contribute. Consider it approved.

**Me:** Really? Thanks, Mr. Johnson!

**Marcus:** See, I told you it was a good plan.

**Principal:** You boys have my support. Now, anything else you want to discuss, or is that all for today?

**Marcus:** Mr. Johnson, there's something else I'd like to discuss about the plan.

**Principal:** Of course, Marcus. Alex, would you mind waiting outside for a moment?

Curiosity piqued, I left the office, wondering what Marcus had in mind and what kind of plan they were discussing behind closed doors.

**Me:** Marcus, what was that plan you were discussing with the principal?

**Marcus (smiling):** Oh, that's a secret mission we're working on. The principal gave me one month to complete it.

**Me:** Can you do it?

**Marcus (laughs):** After seeing how easy the target is, I'm pretty confident I can pull it off.

Although I had no idea about the mission, I couldn't help but hope that Marcus would succeed in whatever mysterious task the principal had assigned him.

Two days since becoming the waterboy for the team, I've been putting in a lot of effort to impress everyone. Not everyone on the team is friendly, but having Marcus by my side makes it easier. Interestingly, our basketball team doesn't have a coach because he went to prison for some dangerous activities.

After playing basketball until 5 p.m., we headed home. Today is Friday, and after practice, I asked Marcus to come over to our house. He agreed to spend the entire day tomorrow. I was thrilled at the prospect of having a great time with my newfound friend.

**Me:** Mom, guess what? Tomorrow, Marcus is coming over to play video games!

**Mom (excitedly):** Oh, finally! I've been waiting to see him for a long time.

**Me (laughing):** Mom, it's only been two weeks since we met.

**Mom:** Well, it feels like forever. I'm looking forward to meeting your new friend, Alex.

good story keep up