It was the place where she believed she could learn and grow without carrying unnecessary debt.

When she told Gavin, he hugged her and said he was proud.

Then he turned to me.

“You helped her get here,” he said.

“So did she,” I answered.

At the community center, Nadia organized a small celebration for the graduating students.

There was sheet cake, lemonade, and a table covered in handwritten advice from former participants.

Selena stood beside Mia beneath a banner that read, NEXT STEPS.