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“But why would you give up your dream for someone else?” she asks.
I look at Jaden, then back to Candace.
“Because sometimes dreams evolve. You’re not really giving up anything. You’re adjusting to the situation your life is in when you come to a crossroads.” I pause and walk back to the center of the room. I want to address all of my students and not just Jaden. I know why he asked me that particular question, but the rest of the class doesn’t.
I lay the iPad face down on Bob and Samantha’s table. Clasping my hand together, I continue with my off-the-cuff lecture. I want my students to go for their dreams, but also to be ready to pivot if their situation requires it.
“When you’re young, you see things in black and white. But life is lived in the gray areas. We all have big dreams as we grow into adulthood. Then life gives us tests to see if we can adjust.” I walk around and pause at each of the five tables, catching the attention of my students as I speak.
“Most people do so and live happily ever after. Some sacrifice happiness for notoriety and wealth. You…” I point around at each one.
“…have to choose what’s best for you.” I retrieve my iPad from Bob and Samantha’s table, then walk to the center of the five tables.
Looking around the room again, I see everyone staring wide eyed at me. I let out a nervous laugh.
“Oh, geez. I’m sorry. It seems today’s lecture turned a bit on the philosophical side. I certainly didn’t intend for that to happen.” I tap awake the iPad I’m still holding and say, “So, your assignment is still to create the a la carte menu for your restaurant. The one of your dreams.” I turn and walk back to my desk.
“Class dismissed.”
As usual, Jaden is the last to leave. He walks to the door with Candace.
“I’ll join you in a minute,” he says to her.
He turns around and comes toward my desk.
“Hey,” he says and sits on the edge.
“Yes, Jaden?” I keep my eyes on my laptop.
“Was any of your lecture about us?”
“You can take my lecture as you wish. I spoke from my heart and what I believe to be true. You know Chef Thomas very well.” I tilt my head and meet Jaden’s gaze.
“You can be him if you want.”
“You really are amazing, Blaire.”
My eyes widen and I correct him, “Miss Turner.”
“Oh, sorry. What I meant to say was, you really are amazing, Miss Turner.” He leans closer to me and grazes his hand across mine. He smiles and whispers, “Especially in bed.” He hops off my desk and trots toward the door. Before leaving the classroom, he blows a kiss to me.
I shake my head and smile wide.
26
JADEN
Iwalk into the coffee shop with my phone in hand. A text message from Dave asks if I can come in early. Chef Tomas needs to talk to me. I reply
I’ll be there as soon as I can.
Candace’s hand waves me over to her.
“Hey, Jaden. Are you ready to start on the task from Miss Turner?”
I stand next to her and say, “I need to get to The Oasis as soon as I can. Raincheck?” I raise my eyes and twist my mouth.
“Oh, yeah. Sure.” She slides her notebook back into her bag.
