No matter how perfect my grades are, no matter how polite I am, they've already decided what I am. Master Park's eyes softened. Then perhaps it is time to show them who you truly are. The championship is coming. You are ready.
The registration fee. There are always ways for those with determination, he said. Trust your path. The next day, Jasmine stayed late at school to use the library. As she passed the empty gymnasium, she noticed the door was a jar.
Inside, she heard the rhythmic sound of someone practicing alone. Curiosity drew her in. Ms. Powell, the PE teacher, was executing a series of basketball drills with machine-like precision. Jasmine watched from the doorway, impressed by the older woman's focus and skill.
"You going to stand there all day or come in? " Ms. Powell called without breaking her routine. Embarrassed, Jasmine entered. "Sorry, I didn't mean to intrude. " Ms. Powell sank one final basket before turning to face her.
"You're the scholarship student. Taylor, right? Jasmine nodded, preparing for the usual judgment. I've seen you in gym class. You move differently than the others, like you've had training.
For a moment, Jasmine considered denying it, keeping her secret safe. But something in Ms. Powell's direct gaze made her reconsider. Taekwond do. She admitted.
I'm a thirdderee black belt. Miss Powell's eyebrows rose slightly. Impressive. So why do you let Whitney Caldwell walk all over you? The bluntness of the question caught Jasmine offguard.
My scholarship is based on academic merit, not how well you take abuse. Said Powell bounced the basketball thoughtfully. You know, when I was playing in the WNBA, people told me I didn't belong there either. Too short, too loud, too black. She fixed Jasmine with a steady look.
You ever consider entering the showcase? That martial arts stuff would certainly stand out. The idea had been forming in Jasmine's mind since Whitney mentioned the prize, but hearing it suggested aloud made it suddenly real and terrifying. They'd never let me win, Jasmine said quietly. Maybe not, Miz.