Chapter 9: First Kiss

Zain

Although he hated to say goodbye, Zain walked Jasmine back to her parents’ apartment, knowing she couldn’t spend much more time in the sun. As fair as she was, she would fry.

“I had a nice time with you today,” he said as they walked toward her door.

Jasmine nodded, obviously having had enough outdoor fun. “So did I.” But as they walked toward her door—literally right on the beach—she paused. “Would you like to come in for a while? We can pop some popcorn and watch a movie.”

Zain shook his head. “Maybe some other day. But I would like to meet your parents, if that’s okay.” He laughed. “I don’t know what’s customary in your culture, but in my culture, the boy has to meet the girl’s parents before they go on their first date. Then, usually they have to bring along a little sister as a chaperone.”

Jasmine’s eyebrows rose in disbelief. “Seriously? In today’s day and age?”

He nodded. “‘Fraid so.”

“Well, lucky for you, I don’t have a little sister. I’m an only child. But don’t give my