The day after the results, I was called to the principal's office. For a moment, my heart dropped. Had something gone wrong?
But as I walked in, I saw not just the principal… but two representatives from the scholarship board, both dressed sharply, holding envelopes.
"Congratulations, Adewale," one of them said with a warm smile. "You didn't just win — you impressed the board. Your story, your transformation, your honesty… it stood out."
I swallowed hard, unsure what to say.
They handed me a golden envelope with my name printed in bold. Inside was the official scholarship letter — confirmation that I had been selected to study abroad with full sponsorship: tuition, accommodation, allowance — everything.
I felt my knees go weak.
But then, one of them added, "And we heard about Tope. About what she means to your journey. We don't usually do this, but… we made an exception. She's been awarded a mentorship grant. If she accepts, she'll join the pre-university program with you — and we'll evaluate her performance for full admission next year."
My eyes widened.
"Wait, what? You mean she's… she's coming?"
They nodded. "She's earned the chance — just like you."
I ran out of the office with the letter in hand, barely able to breathe. I found Tope under the big mango tree where we always sat.
Without a word, I handed her the second envelope.
She opened it. Read it. Looked up at me in disbelief.
And then, for the first time, Tope cried.
Not because of pain.
But because the dream we once whispered about… had just become real.