The Celebration

“Don't take it too far, Mrs. Suresh. I thought we were family, and you should let me know that she is leaving for school.”

She walked to the vacant chair and sat down before she agreed, “You are right for thinking that way. We are supposed to let you know.”

“It is all right. Where is the school if I may ask?”

Now, Ann was through with the other person and joined them. She sat beside her mother and answered, “Belgium.”

“Yes. University of Ghent,” her mother concurred.

Instantly, he had some butterflies in his stomach but concealed it. The distance by flight to Belgium from Christchurch was 6 hours and he considered it too far away.

“Why are you going to Belgium when they have a campus in Birmingham?”

“That is the campus I was posted to.”

“Maybe it is because she applied late,” her mother chipped in.

Nevertheless, he composed himself and complimented her, “Congratulations.”

“Thank you, Supervisor, for your understanding.”

“You are welcome,” he said and ordered his food.

While eating, he