"Some connections are lit by chance, but the brightest are forged by fate."


    Ivy adjusted the strap of her backpack, her fingers brushing against the blueprint rolled up inside. The school hallway buzzed with chatter,students darting from one side to the other like a hive of bees. She sighed, dodging a group of freshmen and heading for her locker.


    "Carter!"A familiar voice called. Ivy turned to see her best friend, Emily Brooks, jogging towards her. Her dark curls bounced with every step and her grin was infectious.


    "You’re late again,"Emily teased.


    "Had to finish tweaking the design for my entry."Ivy replied, opening her locker and pulling out a thick notebook.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    Emily’s eyes lit up. "The festival competition?Are you finally going to dethrone last year’s champion."


    Ivy smirked. "That''s the plan."


    The two walked towards their classroom.As they passed by the main bulletin board, Ivy’s gaze landed on the bold red poster announcing the Festival of Lights Competition. Her heartbeat quickened at the sight.


    "Do you think Logan Hayes will enter again."Emily asked, nudging Ivy.


    Ivy shrugged nonchalantly, though the mention of Logan made her stomach twist. The enigmatic boy had swept the competition last year with his flawless robotics entry. He was talented, yes, but there was something about him that set him apart-something Ivy couldn’t quite figure out.


    "I don''t care who enters."Ivy said, feigning confidence."I''m ready for anyone."


    As they reached the classroom, the morning sunlight streamed through the windows,casting long shadows on the floor,Ivy sat at her desk,flipping open her notebook.She was determined to make this year hers,no matter what-or-who stood in her way.