“You need to do that. Start using NT on your home machine. It will help. Also, remember that passing the exam is not the same as fixing a computer problem. Many of the questions are not realistic situations. They'll ask you things that you'll never see in a work situation.”
“Those practice questions are so long. I get a headache just reading them.”
“If you keep at it, eventually they'll make sense. I also have been giving classes on some of the material, but I don’t think you've been to any yet. How about this? Billy and I will meet with you and go over what you're doing. I'll bring my class materials and answer any of your questions. Okay?”
“You'd do that?” asked Colt.
“Give me a time and place,” said Matthew.
“What about now?”
“Billy isn’t here now, but I can go over the materials with you. Shoot by.”
The meeting had been exactly what Colt needed. Mr. Carbon was thorough and organized. He went over the outlines he used for his lectures and talked about tricky topics. He also suggested techniques to approach areas of study. After Mr. Carbon was finished, Colt asked questions. He was surprised and pleased that the fog blocking his learning was starting to dissipate. Most important was that he now felt confident that he had a good approach.
“This has been great, Mr. Carbon. I really feel like I'm getting it,” said Colt.
“I could tell from your questions that you know a lot of the material. It just takes that extra step of connecting the dots. I'm glad this helped,” said Matthew.
“The part about the difference between share permissions and file permissions really makes sense now. Thanks.”
“Just pass the exam. And don’t forget, when you think you're ready we'll do an assessment. No one has ever failed if they pass the assessment.”
“Okay, thanks again.”
“It does get easier, Colt. Keep working. Take it easy. I'll see you later.”
Man, this guy has it down. He knows this crap. It's like he uncovered the hidden stuff.
As Colt walked by the picture window on the front porch of the Carbon home, he saw a diminutive woman with dark red hair. He felt her presence as much as saw her. She looked at him and nodded as he walked away. That’s what I was feeling before. She's somehow connected with that odd feeling I had.
~~~
The computer displayed a screen with a logon box and waited for input. One line was for user name and one was for password. Colt knew from his study that this was a requirement for Windows NT. There was no way to access the functions of the computer without logging in. Colt was pleased that he had installed the new operating system with few problems. It was not difficult after he decided to follow the steps listed in one of the NT books. Now, I can have hands-on experience and not just books. This should really help me connect the dots.
Colt answered the ringing phone.
“Hello.”
“Hey man, what are you doing?” said Bobby.
“I just installed NT. Now I can dig into this. I'm sick of just reading about it. I went over to the Carbons and got educated.”
“What happened over there? The last time you were just mellow.”
"For one thing I saw what his wife looks like. And I talked to her on the phone. I could tell she decorated that living room. She has a vibe."
"Wow, I think that would be interesting. I mean, meeting the person who paints clouds on the ceiling," said Bobby.
“Anyway, Mr. Carbon explained a lot of stuff. I guess I was so into learning from him that I forgot to get too laid back. I think I can almost pass the test now. Also, he said that I needed to use NT,” said Colt.
“What about device drivers? Have you had any problems with that?”
“I haven’t gotten that far yet. Come over if you want. We can break it together,” said Colt.
“I can’t believe you put that on your PC. Half of your stuff probably won’t work now. We both know how bad it can be even if you're just upgrading Windows.”
“I had to commit to this and deal with whatever happens. I've got a lot of reasons to get this certification now. Besides, I hear that most of the stuff runs on it.”
“I’ll cruise over. Maybe I can learn something, too,” said Colt’s friend.
Chapter 23
------Email-------
From: Bower, Suzy[
[email protected]]
To: Strong, Amy[
[email protected]]
Subject: What’s the latest
--------------------------------------------
HI Amy
So….. what is going on with the new flame? We have to meet so you can tell me all the juicy details. I hope you don’t get hurt. It’s so obvious that you've fallen for Colt.
Your Friend SusyQ
------Email-------
Pockets of water were forming in the indentations on the track that encompassed the multi-purpose field at Highline High. A steady rain pelted the teenage girls running across the field after a black and white soccer ball. Both teams of elite players were drenched, but didn't seem discouraged. A small crowd cheered under umbrellas and makeshift coverings. Amy Strong ran past mid-field moving swiftly along the sideline. The slim, athletic, young woman ran smooth, fast and in complete control of her body. In a game with many talented players, she stood out as exceptional, as her long strides distanced her from competitors. Amy's confidence and skills were evident.
One of Amy's teammates paused while controlling the ball at the center of the sloppy field while looking for an opening. With a rush, an opposing player attacked splashing water in all directions. Both girls kicked and by chance, the wet ball sailed away from them toward the goal. Amy made a sharp cut and slashed into the center of the field to reach the slow-moving globe. She arrived just before two opposing players and took control. Amy leaned, twisted, kicked, dribbled and outran three opponents in her ferocious march toward the goal. Now, only one defender remained between her and the wide-eyed goalie who was slightly crouched anticipating a shot on goal. As the quick, determined defender charged at her, Amy surveyed the situation for a moment and calculated her next move. When her opponent came upon her, running fast, Amy stopped, turned completely around, and leaned just enough to make contact with the opposing player, but not to cause a foul. The smaller girl flew sideways and away from Amy, who now had a sparkling, competitive gleam in her eyes. She turned and sprinted toward the tense goalie in front of the net. When ten yards away from the goal, she kicked the ball with such force that the goalie could only see a flash of black and white slamming into the other side of the net. The shrill sound of the whistle filled the air. Fans cheered as teammates crowded around Amy. The referee blew again and yelled, “Halftime.”
Amy walked toward the sidelines. Her friend Susy, who was covered in rain gear, was looking at Amy and making hand gestures toward the end of the group of fans. Amy looked in the indicated direction, saw a flash of bright day-glo red, and knew who was there. A sense of confusion and weakness replaced her confidence and joy. Oh no, why is he here? Is he checking up on me? I thought our date was tonight. I must look like a wet mop doll. My hair, my ugly knees… Ahhhh!
Amy walked toward the edge of the crowd of players where Suzy stood smiling.
“Great goal. What is Colt doing here with his best buddy?” asked Suzy.
“I can’t think about soccer. I feel like I'm standing bare-assed naked in front of him. How the heck should I know why he's here? I just wish he would go away.” answered Amy as she tried to blend in with the crowd.
Suzy couldn't help smiling at the predicament her friend was in. She envied Amy who seemed to have everything.
“It’s probably no big deal. Maybe he just wants to support you.”
“Oh my gosh, isn't it time for the second half to start yet? Maybe he won’t notice me if I’m at the other end of the field.”
“There's no chance of that. You’re one of the best soccer pla
yers in Western Washington. Everybody notices.”
“Oh no, here he comes. Do something. Hide me.”
As Colt and Bobby approached Suzy put her hand on Amy's shoulder.
“Too late, girl. Oh hi, Colt,” said Suzy.
“Uh, hi Suzy. I just wanted to talk to Amy for a minute, okay?”
“Sure Colt. But you better go easy on her. I think she’s in shock.”
Colt looked at Amy. She now did not resemble the talented player who was on the field minutes ago.
“Hey, I’m sorry if I freaked you out. I just wanted to see how you play. Also, I'll be picking you up an hour earlier,” said Colt.
A still stunned and distracted Amy replied, “Oh, okay. Five instead of six, then?”
“Yeah, I have a surprise for you. I’ll see you then. I just wanted to say that you're really good. It makes me wish I was still playing when I watch.”
Amy brightened and smiled. “Great, I better get on the field. I'll see you later.”
“Bye,” said Colt.
Amy watched Colt and Bobby walk toward the parking lot. She could see Bobby talking and gesturing to his friend.
“Man, is she good or what? Did you see that move? It’s like a woman playing with girls. Don’t let this one get away, Colt,” said Bobby.
“I don’t know that I have much to say about it, dude,” said Colt.
~~~
Amy sat next to Colt in the front seat of his car. She looked stunning in a bright blue dress over sleek nylons and a trace of makeup. Her light brown hair was left to hang free and shone like satin. Colt was drawn to this beautiful girl in many ways. He hoped that his plan would make her happy. He hoped that it would bring them closer together.
“So, why won’t you tell me where we're going? What's the big secret?” said Amy.
“I just want you to meet a few people. It shouldn’t take long. Then we can go to the movie. By the way, you look really great,” said Colt.
Amy hit Colt's arm a few times.
“I can’t believe you snuck up on me today. I looked like a wet mop.”
“You looked like a winner to me,” said Colt with mock look of pain.
“Let me know next time. I’ll remember not to show up.”
Colt pulled over and said, “Here we are.”
“But Colt, this is your house? Who’s here?” aksed Amy.
“Come on. This will be fun.”
Amy started to lean down to avoid whoever was opening the front door of the house when she saw Colt's sister, Kelly. The tall, poised young woman waved and smiled. Amy stopped worrying, forgot about Colt, jumped out of the car and walked toward the house. I guess maybe this will work out okay, thought Colt.
“He didn’t tell you anything, did he? He wanted to see how you would do under pressure,” smiled Kelly.
“Of course he didn’t say anything. Our first date and he puts me on the spot. It’s great to see you though. He was right in knowing that I would love to see you again,” said Amy.
“Come on in. I asked Colt to bring you over. My mom wants to meet you, too. Don’t worry. We can be friendly when we really try.”
Leona soon joined Kelly and Amy in the living room. Colt decided to leave them to their girl talk and went to his room. Amy soon felt like part of the family with Kelly as a sister. Kelly was exactly what Amy aspired to be. She was a successful college soccer player and an excellent student. Kelly was also friendly, relaxed, and not caught up in her own success, which made everyone who met her feel at ease. The three women talked liked they had known each other for years until Colt interrupted them.
“Hey ladies, you've got five more minutes before we have to go.”
“Okay, little bro,” said Kelly.
“I’m glad Colt brought me by,” said Amy.
“Remember that we have a scholarship for you if you decide not to go to Western,” said Kelly.
Leona hugged Amy.
“It was great meeting you dear. Please encourage Colt to keep at the school work so he can get into college, too. Come back any time.”
Colt started the car and was about to step on the gas when Amy stopped him.
“Wait a minute.”
“Oh, what’s up?” said Colt.
“I liked my surprise. Your family is really nice.”
“Be happy you didn’t meet the old man.” said Colt with a smile.
Before Colt knew what was happening, Amy had leaned over, firmly grabbed his chin, and kissed him. Although he was a bit startled, he adjusted to this new turn of events and returned the passionate affection that he was receiving. Colt sensed that there was a deep connection between them that was now active and expanding. It was like a bolt of lightning in a bone-dry forest. A blaze of passion, both emotional and physical, exploded. It created a scintillating cocoon that surrounded the two teenagers. A delicate river of happiness flowed between them.
Chapter 24
------Email-------
From: Sweden, Ron[
[email protected]]
To: Carbon, Matthew[
[email protected]]
Subject: Colt O’Brien needs our help
---------------------------------------------------
Hi Matthew
The O’Brien kid needs to get a certification more than anyone. It could be the difference between getting into college or not. Mr. Towne asked me to pay special attention to his progress. When he has his assessment I think we should all be there to support him.
Regards Ron
------Email-------
Amy pushed away Colt’s hands and looked at him with a mock serious stare.
“I'm here to help you study and not to play around. I can’t believe how hard this stuff is. I thought it would be like any other studying I’ve done, but it’s not,” she said.
“I told you it was bad. See why I'd rather fool around?” asked Colt.
“So far you're doing pretty good. A few more hours and I think you'll be ready for the test.”
“Really? I'm glad to hear someone say those words. It's been like running a marathon that never ends.”
“I can see that you've been working at it. Let’s keep going until I'm sure you know it.”
Colt and Amy went back to focusing on the study materials instead of each other. Passing the exam was important to both of them.
Damn, I want to be at Western as much as she does. I wonder if she knows how hung up I'm on her, thought Colt. Their romantic attachment deepened daily. Both of them were in uncharted territory. Neither had felt the intensity they were experiencing now. Being together was intense and thrilling. Neither of them wanted to think about any possible problems. As it was, nothing between them was forced, uncomfortable or awkward, allowing them to bask in dreamy, carefree comfort. Neither could envision a future without this effortless bond.
The study regimen that they followed was simple. Amy asked questions and Colt answered. The questions were gleaned from the two books and printed practice tests that Colt had been studying. Colt was starting to understand how repetition solidified his understanding. What seemed impossible only weeks before now was absorbed, digested and understood. All through his school years, he rarely studied any subject or assignment more than twice. Now I get it. It really does start to sink in, even if it seems like it will never happen, he thought. The one area where he knew about repetition was sports. He recalled hours and hours of doing the same soccer drills until it was like breathing. Now that he had taken the same approach to studying, he could see that it had the same effect. The difference was that the work was mental and not physical. As it happened in sports, his potential was uncovered by pushing himself. It’s almost like cheating, he thought.
“Okay, that’s enough. When you can answer the question before I finish saying it, you’re ready,” said Amy.
“So, you think I can pass?” asked Colt.
“If you can’t pass, then they changed what’s in the test. You really know this stuff.?
??
“This is great. So, now what do we do?”
Amy reached over and grabbed Colt’s hands, pulling him toward her.
“Do what you were doing before we started.”
~~~
Billy answered the ringing phone in his basement bedroom.
“Hi.”
“This is Colt. I’m ready for the test. What do I have to do?”
“You'd better talk to my dad first. We usually do an assessment.”
“What’s that?” asked Colt hoping that it didn't involve more studying.
“We sit down and ask questions to be sure that you're ready.” said Billy.
“Is your dad there?” asked Colt.
After a few moments Matthew came on the line.
“Hi, Colt. Billy said that you want to take the NT Workstation certification exam?”
“Yeah, I’m ready.”
“We want to have you come over so we can assess your readiness and give you some tips.”
“I'm not into it, but if you say so I’ll do it. Can I bring my girlfriend along?”
“Sure, bring her. And tell her we'd love to have her try this out, too. How about Friday evening at seven?”
“Okay, we’ll see you then,” said Colt.
“You know, Colt, it would probably be better doing this at the Sweden’s house. They have a big table we can all sit at.”
“Whatever. I want this over with. We’ll see you Friday.”
~~~
Amy sat next to Colt at a large table in the dining room of the Sweden home. Mr. Sweden, Mr. Carbon, Billy and Gunnar sat across from them. An open laptop was on the table in front of Gunnar. Two tall stacks of books and a four-inch high stack of printouts were also there.
Mr. Carbon spoke first.
“It’s great to see Amy here. We all want to encourage her to join the program and get a certification. It's something that could help her in the future. We need more women that understand technology in the workforce. There are tremendous opportunities for women right now.”
“This is the assessment. It's the last step before taking an exam,” said Mr. Sweden.