That’s why I applied in the first place.
Not because I need the grant. Not because I think this is some career-defining moment. But because I wanted to shut everyone up—to prove that I don’t just float, Iwin. That I can crush it in classandin the real world. Even in a dumb competition like this one, where people treat the winners like STEM royalty.
But now, I’m the only one left solo while everyone else is out there pairing up like it’s prom season, and my inbox is still a black hole.
I exhale sharply and hit refresh again. Still nothing.
Time to take a break from this bullshit.
I shove back from my desk and head down the hall, knocking once before stepping into Alfie’s room.
Tara’s curled up on her bed, laptop balanced on her knees, coffee steaming beside her like she’s already been productive for hours.
“Sup, nerd,” I say, leaning against the doorframe.
She barely glances up. “I have a lot of work, Troy.”
“Yeah, yeah. Just making sure you’re alive.”
“I am, thanks.”
“You sleep okay?”
“Mhm.”
“Eat anything yet?”
“Troy.” She finally looks up, exasperated. “Yes, I ate. Yes, I slept. No, I’m not dying.”
I smirk. “Good. Just checking.”
She rolls her eyes but smiles, shifting to grab her coffee.
“Did you check your email yet?”
“Yeah.” I scratch the back of my neck, walking into the room. “Got in.”
Tara gasps and immediately flings her laptop to the side, nearly sending it flying off the bed. She bounces up to sit on her knees, face lighting up.
“Shut.UP. You did?!”
I blink. “Uh… yeah? I literally just said that?—”
“That’s amazing!” She does a little fist-pump in the air. “Oh my god, Troy, you got into Future Innovators! That’s a huge deal!”
I laugh. “You act like I’ve already won the thing.”
She throws a pillow at me. “It’s a competitive program! Half your cohort didn’t even get shortlisted! I’m allowed to be proud, okay?”
“Alright, alright.” I toss the pillow back at her feet. “Appreciate the enthusiasm.”
She takes another sip of coffee, her grin still glued in place.
“So, did you find a partner yet?”
I hesitate. And that’s all it takes.
Her face drops into suspicious mode instantly.
