Chapter 376

Jensen scoffed. "I don't care about your gift anyway."

Ariana gently tapped the water with a twig, saying, "Well, I won't give you one, then."

"You're just trying to annoy me!" Jensen huffed again. "Where else would you find such a great childhood friend if I stopped being yours?"

"Alright, now. I'll stop teasing you," Ariana said. "It's getting chilly in the evenings now that fall's here. Take care of yourself."

Jensen was actually more concerned about her. He gave her a few more reminders before hanging up the phone. After the call, Ariana sat for a while longer, then set the twig aside.

She stood up, grabbed the cushion from the rock, and started walking back. The small river was right next to a village of about 60 households. Most young adults were away, leaving mainly the elderly and children behind.

This tiny village was far from town, making schooling a challenge for the kids. When Ariana arrived, a volunteer teacher was about to leave, so she stepped in to fill the role.