Chapter 10. Unwanted Journey

Xerina’s POV

“You’re leaving? Isn’t it too soon? Your college won’t be starting—”

“I told you, Mom.” I turned around, stretching a smile on my lips. “Dylan’s mom invited us over.”

Her lips wobbled, but she quickly hid her sadness with a smile. “I was hoping to spend this summer with you.”

Painfully twisting my heart, I gathered my courage as I wrapped my arms around her. “I promise I’ll visit as soon as my exams are over.” A promise I did not mean. I spent the entire evening pondering and going through my options. But no path would lead me to him if I stayed back here—the place where everything started. To let the pain drift, I had to drift far away with it.

When I pulled away, I put the fake smile back. “I love you, and I’m sorry for acting out.”

She narrowed her eyes with a shake of her head and rubbed her hands down my arms lovingly. “I love you too. Just… be careful.”

Her touch was gentle, her eyes filled with love and concern. It