Chapter 33: The Real You

Jasmine

Jasmine and her mother arrived at the mall and walked around, looking for a dress shop.

“What about this one?” Hannah asked, stopping before a store. “I’m sure you’ll find something really nice here.”

Jasmine looked up, and it was what she would call an older woman’s shop with sophisticated clothes instead of hip, trendy clothes. “Nope!” She slid her arm in her mother’s. “Mom, if you’re going to be back on the market, I’ll need to show you where to shop.

Hannah’s head snapped up. “On the market?” She let out a deep breath. “Honey, I’ve been married to your father for so long I wouldn’t even know what it’s like to date, let alone be with another man.”

Jasmine pulled her mother to a stop. “Mom, promise me that no matter what happens between you and my father, you won’t stay alone for the rest of your life.”

Hannah smiled. “Sweetie, it’s much too soon to think about such things—”

“Promise me,” Jasmine cut her off. “I can’t leave for college next month, knowing you’ll be alone.”