A Second Chance Is All I Need. - By Praise Umunakwe

Written By: Praise Umunakwe

Category: Short Story

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

In "A Second Chance Is All I Need." by Praise Umunakwe, we are drawn into the intense atmosphere of a world where silence and perfection are the currency of success. This short story is part of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. It paints a vivid picture of the struggles and rivalries within the walls of Elites Academy, where the pressure to maintain status drives the narrative forward. Umunakwe skillfully navigates themes of ambition, resilience, and self-discovery, offering readers an engaging exploration of what it means to strive for greatness.

About the Work

Praise Umunakwe's narrative delves deeply into the psyche of Iris Hale, whose journey through the halls of Elites Academy is fraught with tension and expectation. The story captures the suffocating environment of perfectionism and the societal pressures that accompany it. Through Iris's eyes, readers experience the crushing weight of favoritism and the unyielding drive to prove oneself. The imagery of the academy, coupled with Iris’s internal dialogue, paints a powerful picture of a young individual's quest for a second chance at success.

A Second Chance Is All I Need.

Original Submission by Praise Umunakwe

A Second Chance Is All I Need.

First day back at Elites Academy and we were seated in the auditorium. No one dared to speak. At this academy, silence isn’t just expected—its enforced.

We sat in order of our ranking. The highest elites were put in the front and the fallen were seated at the back. A Fallen Elite, that title scared me. It’s given to those who are on the brink of explosion.

Julian and I were sitting in the front row, we were currently the top elites which added another layer of pressure to our already burdened shoulders. However, something wasn’t right with Julian. His posture was tense, his gaze fixed on the stage.

Suddenly, the doors flung open. Every posture straightened, every eyes lifted to the stage. Heavy footsteps walked across that stage. It was the man everyone feared, Edward Cross—Julians father.

This man isn’t one to mess with. Edward Cross is the kind of man whose donations don’t just help this school—they keep it running. So when he spoke, every ear was forced to listen.

I glanced at Julian, his face was pale—fear radiating off him. Yet, his eyes never left the stage.

Once the assembly concluded, Julian and I walked over to the headmasters office. Walking through the halls wasn’t as empowering as I imagined. Every eye turned to stare. Not admiration—Judgement.

As we walked into the office, we spotted Edward Cross seated on the sofa. His legs were crossed and a serious expression was plastered on his face. We were waiting for what seemed like eternity, then he spoke.

“You both are Top Elites,” he said, taking a quick glance at us. “Therefore you are to be an example for others. The human embodiment of perfection”

That line—the human embodiment of perfection—terrified me.

“One mistake. That’s all it takes to lose your title. Remember, you are constantly being monitored,” he paused for a moment. “We see everything,” he concluded…staring directly at me.

Once Mr Edward had finished speaking, we were sent to class. On our way back, I couldn’t help but wonder how easy everything must be for Julian. His father is the most feared man in this school’s history.

Ofcourse, he is the Top Elite.

The thought made me freeze at the classroom door. As much as I hate to admit it, I secretly believe that's the truth. Yet, Julian still remains my best friend.

“Don’t hesitate,” Julian said as he opened the door. “They watch everything—even the slightest hesitation,” he whispered. I gave a slight nod and followed him into the classroom.

The tension in the room was overwhelming. The teacher stood at the front, his face turned to the board. Julian and I found our seats silently, trying to avoid being a disruption. I looked around the room and noticed every student was trying their best to be seen as perfect. Then I saw Julian. The rich man's son who gets everything handed to him on a silver platter.

And in a moment it dawned on me. As long as Mr Edward maintains his status, no one but his son will thrive.

The favoritism began to bother me and that feeling only grew with each passing minute.

My goal is no longer becoming top elite. It’s ripping the crown from Julian's head.

I, Iris Hale, will steal the spotlight and take the title that’s rightfully mine.

I was so consumed in my own thoughts I hadn’t been paying attention to the lesson and didn’t realise a test was being handed out until it reached my desk.

I froze as I read the first question,

I couldn’t recall a thing from the lesson.

Time was ticking and I began panicking.

As I scribbled nonsense onto my paper, the teacher instructed us to stop writing.

My chest tightened—my breathing heavier. I looked over at Julian as he set his pencil down—clamly.

I rolled my eyes and practically threw my pencil.

For the first time since I stepped foot into this academy, I slouched. Just a bit, but any authority figure in this place would notice immediately. The week went on and it felt as though I was losing grip of myself.

Test after test, assignment after assignment. I don’t know what’s wrong with me, but I need to fix it—fast.

For the next week, I stayed up late and got up early to study—somedays—I didn't sleep at all. I skipped meals, medication, and socializing just so I can fit in more time to study.

I walk down the hallways and my legs are struggling to hold up my body. Meanwhile Julian is strutting down the halls like he owns it.

He owns it all..doesn’t he?

I walked into class to find a paper on every desk. A pop quiz.

I took a seat and waited for further instructions. Then, Julian walked in, my blood boiled at the sight of his face. I knew I would get marks off just because my name isn’t Julian Cross.

As I grew deeper in thought I felt a presence walk in. A presence that everyone feared. Edward Cross.

A feeling of dread ran through my veins. Edward Cross is the last person I wanted in this room—especially in a moment like this.

“You may begin your quiz,” he said. I immediately flipped the paper and began writing. The first page was fine but by the second page, my head started spinning.

I tried to keep writing but the pain in my body began worsening.

Then, it clicked…My medication.

I haven't been taking my medication.

Tears filled my eyes as my mind began racing. I couldn’t focus on the test. The room spun and I couldn’t see clearly.

I didn’t know what else to do…so I ran.

I ran out of the room, bumping into desks as I left.

No one looked up.

No one ran to find me.

At that moment, I realised—there’s no hope for me anymore.

It's useless to keep trying—no one can win a game that is rigged against them.

So I kept running, I wanted to stop but my mind wouldn’t let me–even though my body was screaming to stop.

I ran as far as I could away from that academy. Away from that place.

Tears fell from my face and onto the grass.

One phrase kept repeating in my mind. I failed. I failed. I failed. I failed. I failed.

The words got louder each time.

I stopped running as I reached a gate. I had never seen this place before, nor heard of it.

It was an Academy.

Almost like fate.

The name is Alchemist Academy and suddenly an idea came to mind.

I failed my first attempt…maybe this was a second chance, the time for me to finally shine.

And so I say,

I, Iris Hale, will not fail again.

As I stared at this castle-like school, my legs gave out and my eyes rolled back.

Suddenly, everything went black.

This is the End.

…and yet it’s just the beginning

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar celebrates diverse voices in literature. A platform that fosters creativity and artistic expression, it invites writers from around the globe to share their unique stories and perspectives. Participants engage in a vibrant community of fellow creatives, contributing to a rich tapestry of poetic and narrative works that highlight the human experience.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Praise Umunakwe for sharing "A Second Chance Is All I Need." with us. This compelling short story is a testament to the power of resilience and self-discovery. We are honored to feature it in the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, and we look forward to seeing more of your inspiring work in the future.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.