After years of winning regional math competitions, Mandy´s team got pretty good at it. They worked like a gear operating at full speed. It was nice to watch them. The team was called Mathemaniacs, and they had t-shirts and caps with this logo.

Even so, Professor Jackson got surprised when they classified for The National Mathematics Competition.

Not because he didn´t admire and tutor these youngsters capacities, but for the National, only the best minds of the country were invited to take part.

He also knew that Mandy was the brilliant one in this group, and without her, they didn´t stand a chance.

But it would be great for their resumes and College applications, only to take part on it. No pressure about winning, for this purpose.

But Mandy would miss this exciting experience. Jackson knew Carol and her points of view for years, now. He had no hope of convincing her to allow Mandy´s participation.

So, he thought it w