Reborn: A Second Chance Through Time

While in school, their teacher, Mrs. Lopez, asked the class what colleges they wanted to attend. Lily thought carefully about her answer. In her last life, she had gone to NYU because Noah had decided to study there. Noah had been accepted to Harvard back then—a school they both had dreamed of since childhood. Lily had studied hard to earn a scholarship and an admission letter to Harvard, but when Noah changed his plans to attend NYU so Emma and he could be together, she followed him, fearing they would grow apart if they went to different schools.

This time, Lily resolved to make a different choice. She wanted to go to Harvard and study business. "I want financial freedom for myself and my mom," she thought. Even though they weren't struggling financially now due to her art business, modeling career, and stock market investments, she felt that studying business would give her the tools to secure their future.

When Mrs. Lopez called on her, Lily stood up and said confidently, "I'm applying to Harvard and other Ivy League schools. I'll also apply to some state universities as backups."

Mrs. Lopez smiled warmly. "I believe in you, Lily. You've been a consistent straight-A student. I'm sure you'll do great."

After class, Lily was surprised to see Noah waiting for her outside the classroom. He smiled at her. "Let's have lunch together. It feels like you've been so busy lately."

Lily smiled back. "Sure, let's go."

As they walked toward the cafeteria, a girl stopped them. "Oh my gosh, I've seen your fashion shows and your photos online! You're a model now? That's so cool!"

Noah looked confused. "Model? You're a model?" he asked, turning to Lily.

Lily laughed. "Yeah, it's kind of a funny story," she said, explaining how she had been scouted by a talent agent at the mall. "It just sort of happened, but it's been a great experience so far."

As Lily talked, Noah felt a pang of loss. Every time he saw her now, she seemed to have changed so much. It felt like she was becoming someone he barely recognized. Were they growing apart?

When they reached the cafeteria and sat down, Noah leaned back in his chair and sighed. "I've been so tired lately," he admitted. "School, football practice, everything feels overwhelming."

"What about your college plans?" Lily asked, taking a sip of her drink.

Noah hesitated, looking down at his tray. "I'm... thinking of going to NYU," he said finally. "Emma's planning to go to newyork to study in a fashion school , and I promised her I'd follow."

Lily smiled softly. "That's great, Noah. NYU is a fantastic school, and I'm sure you'll do well there."

"What about you?" Noah asked, changing the subject. "What are your plans?"

"I'm applying to Harvard," Lily said. "I'm going to study business."

Noah's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Business? I thought you'd go for something in the arts. You've always loved art."

Lily nodded. "I do, but I feel like I've already learned what I need to in that field. I want to challenge myself and do something that will help me build a secure future for my mom and me."

Noah smiled, but his expression was conflicted. Deep down, he also wanted to go to Harvard. It had been their shared dream for years. But then he thought of Emma and the promise he'd made to her. He couldn't back out now, could he?

Sensing his inner turmoil, Lily reached across the table and touched his hand lightly. "Noah, do what you think is best for you and Emma. You don't have to decide everything right now. There are still five months left before high school ends."

Noah gave her a small smile. "Thanks, Lily. You always know what to say."

Lily chuckled. "That's what best friends are for." But as she said it, she felt a sense of closure. She had finally let go of the love she once held for Noah, and for the first time, it didn't hurt.

That afternoon, after school, Lily returned home. Her mom was in the kitchen, cooking dinner. The delicious aroma of chicken filled the house.

"What's for dinner?" Lily asked, leaning against the counter.

"We're having roasted chicken," her mom replied with a smile.

Lily hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Mom, I need to talk to you about something."

Her mom glanced at her, sensing the seriousness in her tone. "Of course, sweetheart. What's on your mind?"

Lily sat down at the kitchen table. "I've decided to apply to Harvard. I want to study business."

Her mom paused, wiping her hands on a towel, before sitting across from her. "Harvard? That's a big decision. What made you choose business? I thought you loved art."

"I do," Lily said earnestly. "But I've been thinking a lot about our future. I want to make sure we're financially secure, no matter what. Studying business feels like the right path to achieve that."

Her mom's eyes softened, and a small smile played on her lips. "You're growing up so fast, Lily. I'm proud of you for thinking ahead. But remember, whatever path you choose, I'll always support you."

Lily's eyes welled up with tears. "Thanks, Mom. That means so much to me."

Her mom reached across the table and took Lily's hand. "Just promise me one thing. Whatever you do, make sure it makes you happy."

Lily nodded, a determined smile on her face. "I promise, Mom."

They sat there for a moment, the warmth of their bond filling the room. Lily felt a renewed sense of purpose and gratitude. This time, she was determined to build a future they could both be proud of.