Chapter 21: Long Distance

Jasmine

A broad smile spread across his mother’s lips as she reached across the table and squeezed Jasmine’s hand. “That’s all I wanted to hear.” She looked proudly at her son and then back at her. “I know you have my son’s best interests at heart, and that’s what counts. I’d hate to see him come all this way in his career, and then something happen to ruin it all.”

Jasmine was almost tempted to tell her that she was on birth control, even though she wasn’t, just to see her reaction. But she didn’t want to give his mother a heart attack. Instead, she took the high road and replied, “Neither would I.”

Maria nodded her approval.

Zain slid out of the seat and kissed the top of Jasmine’s head. “You ladies play nice now. I’ll be right back.” Then he walked to the other side of the table and kissed his mother’s head, too. She leaned into him and placed her hand on his. “Be nice, Madre.”

She scoffed, pushing him away. “I’m always nice.” But despite their playful banter, it was clear that Zai