"I just need a 7, sir. Engineering at Imperial requires it."

Days later, the gymnasium was silent except for the scratching of pens and the occasional cough. The invigilator announced the start of the exam.

You must re-solve the wrong questions (without looking at the solution) 24 hours later. If you get it right, cross it out. If wrong again, ask your teacher.

When the results came out in July, the envelope felt heavy in his hands. He tore it open. Beside Physics HL , the number 7 sat proudly in bold black type.