Nerd's Protocol

End of the beginning

Months after the "Nerd's Protocol" team had established themselves as rising innovators, they crossed paths with a familiar face from their past—Jason Parker, the same Jason who had once tormented Oliver and Ethan in the early days of their journey. The meeting was unexpected and, at first, awkward.

It happened at a tech event where Jason's brother Joy was showcasing the latest advancements from the Robotics Club. Oliver spotted Jason standing at the back, alone and quieter than he remembered. Curiosity got the better of him, and despite their rocky past, Oliver approached.

"Jason, right?" Oliver asked, a slight edge to his voice.

Jason looked up, meeting Oliver's eyes with a nod. "Yeah. Oliver, right? And Ethan," he said, noticing Ethan walking up to join them. His tone lacked the arrogance of their earlier days, and there was a hint of something different—regret, maybe.

There was a brief silence, but then Jason spoke again, surprising them. "Listen, about what happened back then... I was a jerk, and I know it. Joy's told me about what you guys are doing with your team, and I just wanted to say... you've earned my respect. Seriously."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, unsure how to respond. Oliver, always more direct, smirked. "Didn't think I'd ever hear you say that, but thanks. People can change, huh?"

Jason chuckled lightly. "Yeah, well, I've learned a lot since then. My brother's been talking about you guys nonstop, and I've seen what you're building. I think we all grow up at some point."

Ethan and Oliver exchanged glances, the tension that had once defined their relationship with Jason starting to ease. "Water under the bridge?" Ethan offered with a tentative smile.

Jason nodded. "Water under the bridge."

From that day on, a new chapter began in their relationship. Jason started hanging out with the crew more, gradually becoming a part of their inner circle. He wasn't the same person they'd clashed with in the past—he brought new energy, ideas, and a level of street smarts that added a whole new layer to their dynamic.

Jason wasn't just an unexpected ally; he brought a new level of networking to the group. His family connections meant he had access to people in high places, and he was eager to help.

One day, Jason approached the group with a grin. "So, my dad's throwing this big party next weekend. You know, business types, entrepreneurs, and investors. I thought it'd be the perfect chance for you guys to meet some of the people who could really take your projects to the next level."

Mia, always sharp, raised an eyebrow. "You think we'll fit in at something like that? We're not exactly corporate types."

Jason laughed. "Trust me, you'll be fine. Besides, you'll meet people who actually care about innovation. A friend of my dad's told me they're looking for young talent to sponsor."

That caught Ethan and Oliver's attention. The idea of having financial backing for their next big project—a clean energy infrastructure model—was exactly what they needed. After discussing it with the rest of the team, they decided to take Jason up on the offer.

The night of the party, the crew arrived at a luxurious estate, feeling slightly out of place among the wealthy business figures. Jason guided them through the crowd, introducing them to several prominent investors, but there was one introduction that would change everything.

"Guys," Jason said, pulling Ethan and Oliver aside, "there's someone you have to meet." He led them to a quieter part of the garden where a distinguished older man with silver hair stood, engaged in conversation with a group of businessmen. Jason approached him with a smile.