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I always thought Brother was a hero and that everyone knew who he was. It felt that way when so many students attended his funeral, shedding tears like he was the leader of their wizard team for the mage warrior Olympics.
Mom sighed, walking over to Logan's bed and sitting down. She patted the seat next to her, and I joined her on the bed, turning my body so she knew she had my full attention.
"Gabriel was an individual who was shy in the beginning until he got to know a person's characteristics. The moment he knew you wanted to be his friend, not because of personal gain or benefit, he'd open up like a blossoming flower. However, people like Gabriel don't fit in with Brighten. I guess that's what I learned after years of teaching there. You know, you always turn a blind eye to things until your own child or loved one gets harmed by everyone's ignorance." Mother lifted my hand up, turning it over to stare at my palm.
"Brighten Magic Academy is very competitive. Students are ruthless to one another, and it’s hard to trust even those you called friends. Reputation is a big thing there. If you project yourself as confident in both your craft and knowledge, you’re an instant magnet for positive attention. You get along easily with people, so I'm not worried. I . . . just don't want what happened to Gabriel to happen to you." She choked on the last sentence and glanced away as she fought to compose herself.
"Mom," I whispered.
She met my gaze and smiled, gripping my hands with hers.
"I believe you will do fine. I know I put you in this mess, but maybe there's a silver lining to all of this? Again, if there ever comes a time where you don't want to do this anymore, just say the word and you can come back home."
"I'll keep that in mind," I replied.
It was comforting to know I could leave Brighten and not feel like a failure if this magic school wasn't for me.
I wasn't concerned that my magic or knowledge wasn't up to their standards. My concern was the people—the students who turned a blind eye to my brother but then cried and mourned like he was their best friend.
Whatever bullying he experienced, they watched and whispered about it, but no one acted or stopped it until it was too late.
"We should head downstairs and see you both off," Mother suggested, rising to her feet.
I followed her lead and nodded in agreement, walking over to look in the mirror one last time before turning to face her.
She gave me a proud smile, and I decided this would be the best time for me to apologize.
"Mom. I'm sorry for snapping at you the other day. I . . . just have been frustrated with everything. I shouldn't have taken it out on you," I confessed, feeling horrible. I bowed my head, waiting for her to reply.
"Sweetheart, I should be apologizing. I'm grateful to have a child who puts up with a mother that forgets who her child is eighty percent of the time. Guess my meds are working rather well today, perfect timing too. Thank you for putting up with me and this silly disease. I'm sorry you haven't been able to live the life I would have wished for you,” she apologized.
"I'm living a good life, Mom," I reassured her.
She shook her head. "You've missed events, dances, parties, hangouts, all because of me. You never got to enjoy what being a teenager was all about, and even Logan lost out on some of those same things because both of you wanted to ensure I was well. I hope maybe this opportunity will let you enjoy those things you missed."
"Mom," I whispered, feeling awful that she realized how her health problems had affected us all.
I reached up and hugged her; she sank into my hold.
"I know I haven't been the best mom. I wanted more for our family, but I'll always support you, even when I may not be fully present. I love you, Jewel. I just want you to know that." She cried, and I blinked back my own tears that welled up in my eyes.
"I love you too, Mom. I'll be just fine at Brighten. I'll get good grades just like Gabriel did. I'll do my best and make him, Father, and you proud," I vowed.
This opportunity could be a blessing or a curse, but I wasn't going to half-ass it.
I'd live my new life as Jinn and see what the fuss was about this magic school. Most importantly, I'd figure out what cycle Brother wanted me to end.
Whatever it was, I would figure it out and end it, just like he said.
ENTRANCE TEST AND TRIPLE THREAT
"Is that Logan Cross?"
"Oh shit, he's actually attending this year?"
"Who's the dude with him?"
"For a guy, he's hot as fuck."
