Chapter 39: Be Smart

Zain

Carmen hit him on the back of the head. “What are you doing, Zain, bringing her here?” she stage-whispered when Jasmine was safely inside and out of earshot. “You know you’re leaving tomorrow, and you have your career to think about—”

“Believe me, I haven’t forgotten.” He let out a deep breath. “Jasmine doesn’t want me to give up my dreams—”

“Well, I hope you know what you’re doing,” Carmen huffed, cutting him off. “Just don’t forget your promise to Poppy—”

“For the second time, I haven’t forgotten.” Zain shook his head. “Now, do you mind if I get a beer before you continue lecturing me?” He headed toward the house with Sylvia on his hip but stood her on her feet on the front porch.

“I just hope you know what you’re doing,” Carmen’s voice trailed off behind him as he walked inside.

“So do I,” he mumbled under his breath as he headed through the house and out the back door. After nearly decking her father, he needed a beer to calm his nerves.

He walked outside, and Raphael was al