Jocelyn and Ursula had decided on the rural school where they planned to teach as volunteers. They were just waiting for the winter break.
Melvin hadn't shown up lately, while Jocelyn was too busy with finals to think about anyone else.
After the last mock exam, Preston caught up with Jocelyn in the hallway. "Hey, Jocelyn," he said with a solemn look, "I won't be around next semester."
"Transferring?" Jocelyn replied, a note of surprise in her voice.
"Yeah."
"To another city, or just a different school in Yanova City?"
"I'm heading abroad." Preston's tone was matter-of-fact. "Mom's taking me."
Jocelyn nodded. "Sounds exciting."
"It was cool knowing you." Preston tried to sound grown-up. "Would've been better if we became family."
Hearing this, Jocelyn didn't get angry anymore. She just smiled. "Family is all about fate."
Preston nodded, agreeing. "About my uncle... don't worry, I'm not here to persuade you to make up with him. I just mean, if you feel like he's really not worth it, then forget him. Find someone worthy of your love. That's my mom's advice, too."
Jocelyn’s heart sank , but she accepted the counsel. "Don't worry. I will."
...
After finals, Jocelyn packed her suitcase quickly, waiting for the graded papers to be returned so she and Ursula could head to the rural school to teach.
The night before they were set to leave, Yasmine asked Jocelyn out for dinner.
Yasmine mentioned she and Preston would be leaving tomorrow. It seemed right to meet up one last time, as there was no telling when they'd see each other again.
After a moment's thought and knowing it was a sincere invitation from a student, Jocelyn agreed. Besides, Yasmine had promised that Melvin wouldn't be there.
Jocelyn zipped up her parka and took a cab to the cozy little farm-to-table restaurant Yasmine had picked out.
Preston was waiting by the entrance when she arrived.
The kid had great manners, Jocelyn thought. Despite his rocky start, he was a quick learner and his grades reflected his willingness to put in the effort.
"Jocelyn," Preston called out.
"Why are you waiting outside? Aren't you cold?" Jocelyn asked with concern.
Preston patted his chest. "Built tough. I'm good."
Jocelyn chuckled.
Following Preston inside, she found Yasmine had reserved a private room for them. The greeting was warm, like meeting an old friend.
After ordering, Yasmine offered Jocelyn a drink, but she declined, citing the early start the next day.
They chatted about nothing and everything, laughing and bonding in a way that made Jocelyn feel Yasmine could have been a great friend if she weren’t Melvin’s sister.
After dinner, Jocelyn gave Preston some parting advice about getting along at his new school and not butting heads with others.
Preston nodded, then joked, "You're more of a mom to me than my own."
Yasmine gave her son a playful swat on the head. "Watch your words, kid. This is your teacher. Show some respect."
"I respect Jocelyn plenty. Only person in school I actually listen to," Preston quipped, fixing his hair after Yasmine's ruffle. "Mom, how many times have I told you not to mess with my hair?"
"So what if I do?" Yasmine teased, reaching out to ruffle it again.
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