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“Congrats Allison, I’ll be right back with your glass of wine.”
She walks away and as I’m about to go back to my food, I see Jasmine turn around and look at me just like Andrew is. There’s no way I can just shove this fork full of food into my mouth and not acknowledge them. I put my fork down slowly and give them a little wave.
“Hey guys, how are you?” Jasmine’s cheeks turn red, but I don’t know if it’s embarrassment or anger towards Andrew since he has been eyeing me all night long.
“Good, I hope this isn’t awkward for you?” I know she is trying to sound genuine, but it seems like she is trying to take a stab at me.
“Oh, not at all, you enjoy your meal. They have the best spaghetti here.” Before either one can answer, their dinner is served, and Andrew ordered spaghetti like I knew he would. I see Jasmine’s face turn into jealously at that point and as much as I want to play off that I don’t.
“So where are you going if you don’t mind me asking?”
Elise breaks me out of the trance that I’m in with Andrew’s gaze. He shakes his head and tries to focus on whatever Jasmine is saying. He was so interested in her at the office before, so I don’t see why he isn’t interested now.
“Maryland, my school is in Baltimore.”
“You’re going back to school? I wish I could go back; I’ve always wanted to be a teacher.” I smile at her because she seems like she would be a perfect teacher.
“So, what’s stopping you?” I see her hesitation when she is thinking about how she wants to answer that question.
“I’m not sure I could with my boyfriend’s schedule, and I also need this job.”
“Talk to him about it, if he loves you then he will help you make your dreams come true. No one should have the power to shut you down from what truly makes you happy but yourself. For the record, I think you would be a great teacher!”
I can see hope come alive in her eyes when I say that. I can only hope that my words have sparked that flame in her to try to go after her dreams.
“What are you going for?” At first, I’m confused by her question but realized she is referring to my major.
“Writing, I’m going to become an author.” She smiles at me and walks to the table that has been trying to wave at her our whole conversation.
???
“How’s the college search going?” I look up from the paper I’m writing to see Dexter’s blue eyes. I’m in a bit of shock that he’s here since it’s my study hall block.
“Good so far!” I smile.
“I would gladly write a letter of recommendation for john Hopkins. If you would want me to of course.” I clear my throat and try to brace myself for what I’m about to tell him.
I’ve told him that I’ve been thinking about going to school for something else, but he doesn’t know the reasoning behind it. When I told him I was thinking about going to law school, he looked confused, and I couldn’t bring myself to tell him that it was because of my parents. I didn’t want anyone’s pity and it’s my own fault for not having a strong backbone to do what I want.
“I got accepted to Suny Oswego for public justice.” He has the biggest smile, and I can’t for the life of me figure out why.
“Ally that is great! I’m proud of you, you will do great things regardless of where you are.” I’m grateful that he is supporting me, but I need him to tell me no. I need him to tell me what to do. I need some courage to apply for John Hopkins instead, to follow what will truly make me happy.
“Thanks, Dex.” I give him a halfhearted smile and he notices because he sits down next to me.
“What’s wrong?” I scrunch my eyebrows and gulp.
“What do you mean?”
“I know when something is bothering you.”
“I just want to make sure I’m making the right next step.” He exhales heavily and crosses his hands on top of the table.
“I know that it’s a big step after high school, but all you need to do is what makes you happy. No matter what anyone says, you make yourself happy first!”That’s easier said than done. Especially with my parents.I smile at him and nod.
“You will know if it’s the right step in here. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s the truth!” He points to his heart, and I can’t help but feel my heart pick up its pace.
“You know you’re the best teacher ever, right?” He laughs and stands up to leave, but I wish he would stay. He turns around to give me that smile.
