Next day , The History teacher had just explained the group project, and we immediately gathered around a large table near the windows. Sofi practically bounced on her heels, flipping open her notebook.
"Okay, everyone, we need a plan," Sofi said, glancing around at the group. "Let's divide the tasks so no one's overwhelmed."
Nicole leaned in, smiling. "I can do the research sections. I like digging up details."
Sofi nudged her playfully. "Perfect! And I'll handle the main outline and make sure everything flows."
Liliana grinned at Daniel. "I call research too! You can organize the notes with me."
Daniel chuckled, brushing a strand of hair from his face. "Deal. But you have to let me summarize some of the points too. We can't have one person doing everything."
Jessica nudged Lucas, who was holding the poster board. "You're great at drawing. Can you handle the visuals?"
Lucas shrugged, grinning. "Looks like it's my job. I can add a few creative touches too."
I pulled out my notebook and glanced at Eren, who was already scribbling notes. "What about you?" I asked.
"I'll help with the outline and structure," he replied, tapping his pen against the table. "And maybe add some examples or facts to make it stronger."
"Perfect," Sofi said, clapping her hands. "Let's start on our parts. This is going to be awesome!"
As everyone got to work, the table became a hive of activity. Sofi and Nicole whispered back and forth, occasionally bursting into quiet laughter. Liliana and Daniel leaned close over their notes, sharing research findings and debating which points were most important. Jessica and Lucas were side by side, comparing sketches, swapping markers, and laughing quietly when Lucas added some silly doodles to the board.
Eren and I worked together on the outline, carefully arranging the main points and examples. He suggested some ideas I hadn't thought of, and I added my own notes.
"Do you think we should include a historical map?" Eren asked, tilting his head slightly.
"That's a good idea," I said, drawing a small diagram. "It will make everything clearer."
Sofi peeked over our shoulders. "Yes! And we should color-code the sections so it's easy to follow. Nicole, what do you think?"
Nicole nodded enthusiastically. "Absolutely! That'll make it more organized and fun to present."
Liliana leaned back slightly, smiling at Daniel. "I think we're doing better than I expected. This group actually works well together."
Daniel chuckled. "Yeah, teamwork makes everything easier, doesn't it?"
Across the table, Lucas handed Jessica a marker. "Here, try this color for the timeline. It'll make the dates pop."
Jessica grinned. "Perfect, thanks. You always think of the little details."
Even as everyone talked at once, the energy felt natural. The room was filled with quiet laughter, discussions, and brainstorming. No one was competing for attention, and everyone seemed to genuinely enjoy each other's company.
At one point, Eren leaned over and pointed at a section I had written. "You could expand this part a little. It's interesting, but we need a few more details to make it complete."
I nodded, scribbling quickly. "Good idea. I'll add that."
Sofi and Nicole glanced up and exchanged a grin. "You two make a good team," Sofi teased.
I rolled my eyes lightly. "We're just getting the work done."
Nicole laughed softly. "That's teamwork, though. You're both contributing."
Time passed quickly as we worked together. The sun outside moved lower in the sky, casting a warm glow across the classroom. Between laughs, whispered jokes, and shared ideas, the group felt like a close-knit team rather than just classmates thrown together for a project.
Finally, Sofi clapped her hands. "Okay, I think we're done for now. This is shaping up really nicely!"
Eren leaned back, stretching slightly. "We actually got a lot done. Not bad for our first day working together."
"Yeah," I said, glancing around at everyone. "It's nice how everyone contributed. Makes things easier."
Liliana smiled at Daniel. "See? Good teamwork makes a difference."
Daniel squeezed her hand gently. "Yeah. Couldn't have done it without you."
Jessica and Lucas exchanged a satisfied nod. "I think this will turn out really well," Lucas said.
"Definitely," I added.
As we packed up to leave, I felt a quiet sense of satisfaction. The project wasn't just about grades it was about teamwork, friendships, and shared energy. Even with small moments of teasing and laughter, I could feel the bonds forming between everyone.