The New Beginning

Lisa stepped out of the car and stared at the towering gates of the Shanghai American School. The campus was massive, far more impressive than anything she had seen back in Nigeria. The neatly trimmed lawns, the modern buildings, and the diverse mix of students walking around filled her with excitement—and nervousness.

Juan stood beside her, carrying Lisa's suitcase. "Don't worry," Juan said with a warm smile. "You'll settle in just fine. Everyone here is kind."

Lisa nodded, but her palms were sweaty. It was her first time being away from her family, and she couldn't shake the butterflies in her stomach. "Thank you, Juan," Lisa said, grateful for the older woman's presence.

Inside the school, Lisa was led to the administration office, where she would take the SAT examination. The principal, a friendly American named Mr. Carter, greeted her warmly. "Welcome, Lisa," he said. "We're thrilled to have you here. Once you pass the exam, we'll place you in your classes."

Lisa sat down in the examination hall, her hands trembling slightly as she held the pencil. She glanced at the clock on the wall. "You've got this," she whispered to herself. The questions were challenging, but Lisa's determination pushed her through.

A few hours later, Mr. Carter smiled as he handed her the results. "Congratulations, Lisa! You've passed with flying colors. You'll fit in perfectly here."

Lisa felt a rush of relief. Her journey was off to a good start.

On her first day of class, Lisa was introduced to her classmates. Most were friendly and welcoming, but a particular group of girls stood out. They called themselves the "9 Babies," and each one came from a different part of the world.

Chelsea, the cheerful girl from Korea, was the first to approach Lisa. "Hi! You're new here, right? I'm Chelsea!"

Lisa smiled. "Yes, I'm Lisa. I'm from Nigeria."

Chelsea's eyes lit up. "Nigeria? That's so cool! Come meet my friends."

She introduced Lisa to Sakura from Japan, Pharita from Thailand, Ratna from Indonesia, Rani from India, Iris from Russia, Elsa from Norway, Erica from America, and Linda from Canada.

The group was lively and full of energy. They immediately made Lisa feel at home, chatting about everything from their favorite music to their plans for the future.

"You'll love it here," Sakura said. "We stick together like a family."

Lisa felt a warm sense of belonging. For the first time since she arrived in China, she didn't feel so far from home.

Back at the apartment, Lisa began to learn more about Juan and her children. Grace, the eldest daughter, was often quiet and reserved. Lisa soon discovered why—Grace was dealing with the challenges of being a single mother while juggling her university studies.

Felix, on the other hand, was a genius. At just 16, he had already accomplished more academically than most people twice his age. Yet his maturity came from necessity; he had taken on the responsibility of supporting his family after his uncle, Xiang Cheng, stole their wealth.

Joseph, the youngest, was the most outgoing. He was mischievous and loved to joke around, often making Lisa laugh after a long day at school.

One evening, Lisa sat with Juan over dinner. "You're an amazing mother," Lisa said. "It must be so hard to do all this on your own."

Juan smiled softly. "I just want my children to be happy. Life hasn't been kind to us, but we keep going. You're lucky, Lisa. Your parents have given you a great opportunity. Make the most of it."

Lisa nodded. She was even more determined to succeed, not just for herself but to honor her parents' sacrifices.