“Don't pick on others, but don't let anyone pick on you, either.”

Charlotte looked genuinely pleased with Shirley's answer. She leaned in a little, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips. "Well done, Shirley. You're really growing up.”

Shirley's eyes sparkled, suddenly wide with surprise. Her pretty face was flushed with emotion. It was the first time she'd ever felt this brave, standing up for herself without letting anyone guilt-trip her. She never imagined she could do this. It was all because of Charlotte.

Shirley nodded, her eyes filling with tears. “Thank you, Charlotte."

Charlotte waved her off, pulling her hand back and slipping it into her pocket. She flashed Shirley a quick, playful grin. "No need to thank me. Go on and claim your prize."

"Okay."

Shirley blinked away her tears and nodded sweetly.

As soon as Shirley left, Charlotte glanced over at Mr. Lane standing next to her, obviously sulking. She rubbed her nose, looking a little embarrassed. "I can explain everything."

Mr. Lane turned away, his face scrunched up like he was about to burst into tears from sheer frustration.

So, all these years, he'd been lecturing Dr. Cole as if she were just another student? Showing off and spouting academic theories in front of her? He even told her to study hard in physics so one day he could introduce her to Dr. Cole. Oh, this was almost too much.

"You'd better explain yourself, or I swear I'll..." Mr. Lane clenched his fist, waving it in the air in an empty threat.

"I know, I know."

Charlotte flashed him an OK sign, then walked back to her seat as everyone watched.

Andrew jumped up as soon as she came over, bowing slightly as he took her bag with both hands.

Parrish quietly pulled out a chair for her and gave it a quick wipe with his sleeve. He spoke up, voice full of respect. “Charlotte, please have a seat.”

Stella pressed her lips together, fidgeting, then fished a piece of candy from her pocket and awkwardly offered it. "Charlotte, do you want one?"

"Sure."

Charlotte took the candy and popped it in her mouth. She sat down, then shot the three of them a knowing look as they struggled to snap out of their daze. "Come on. Sit up and watch the awards."

"Okay."

All three of them answered together, suddenly as obedient as kids, sitting up straight and turning their attention to the stage.

When Shirley went up to accept her certificate and the announcer welcomed her into the Physics Association, Andrew clapped so hard his hands started to hurt.

"This competition was really tough

on Shirley," Stella said softly, watching Shirley's glowing smile. There was something gentle and proud in her tone. "She's just getting started. She's going to do amazing things."

They were right. This award meant everything to Shirley.

Charlotte's eyes softened with pride. She watched Shirley, a warm smile on her lips. "She really worked hard for this."

If she hadn't come to Vanguard High School, if she hadn't met Shirley... Shirley

might have been ruined by those bullies a long time ago. Thank goodness she was there.

Now, a new star was rising.

Shirley's future was just beginning.

***

In the lounge, Mr. Lane paced back and forth his hands clasped behind his back. His hair was a mess his face long and sulky. He must have walked a hundred laps in ter minutes.

“Is Charlotte ever coming to explain herself?”

His assistant just kept quiet. After all, Charlotte was Dr. Cole. An hour ago, Mr. Lane was her teacher. Now, it felt like he was the student and not even an official one.

"It's already been ten minutes..."

The assistant finally tried to comfort him. "Dr. Cole was just with Shirley. Maybe she got held up. Please try to relax."

"Relax? How am I supposed to relax?" Mr. Lane was fuming, face red as he huffed and puffed. "When Charlotte gets here, I'm going to..."

"What are you going to do?"

Before Mr. Lane could finish, Charlotte walked in, pushing open the door. She looked straight at him. "Mr. Lane, were you about to threaten me?"