Chapter 18: The Lighthouse

Jasmine

Jasmine sighed as she took Zain’s hand and walked with him along the beach. The sea rushed to the shore as the sun rose in the east behind them, casting light over the ocean. “Zain, I have to tell you something, too.”

“What?” he asked, pulling her to a stop.

She took a deep breath. “My parents didn’t want me to see you either. They said that you’re older than me, a man, and they also want me to date someone from society.”

Zain scoffed, letting her hand go. “And is that what you want?”

“No!” She let out a deep breath, watching the birds dip into the water and swoop back up, playing close to the shore. “I told them that you’re a good person and I’m dating you, whether they like it or not.”

He studied her for a moment and then reached for her. “Come here.” He pulled her to his chest and held her. “Jasmine, I don’t want to go out with you just over the summer and then never see you again.”

“Neither do I.” She bit her lower lip. “Maybe I could apply to USC to be with you—”

“But I’m