thirteen → jade west

Chapter 21

In the heart of a sun-drenched afternoon, the prestigious corridors of Jade's private prep K-12 school seemed to whisper tales of success and ambition. This institution, nestled in a lush part of the city, boasted a legacy of shaping the minds of tomorrow's leaders. Its campus was a vision of elegance, with manicured lawns stretching towards buildings that married historical architecture with modern facilities. It was here, in a cozy yet impressive office adorned with symbols of academic excellence, that Jade found herself at a crossroads.

The office was bathed in natural light, filtering through large windows and casting a serene glow over the polished wooden desk. The walls, lined with diplomas and awards, spoke volumes of the advisor's esteemed career. As Jade sat across from her academic advisor, she couldn't help but feel dwarfed by the magnitude of her surroundings and the weight of the decision looming over her.

The advisor, a figure of authority and wisdom, leaned forward, her eyes reflecting a mix of pride and anticipation. "Jade, your academic performance has been exemplary. Not only have you consistently excelled in your coursework, but your intellectual curiosity and dedication set you apart," she began, her voice warm yet firm.

Jade listened, her heart a mix of pride and apprehension. She had always known she was a good student, but the idea of skipping a grade was both flattering and terrifying.

"With additional effort, I believe you have the potential to skip a grade. This isn't a decision we take lightly, but in your case, it seems not only feasible but advantageous," the advisor continued, the words 'skip a grade' echoing in Jade's mind like a distant thunderstorm.

Jade remained silent, her mind racing. To the outside world, this opportunity might seem like a dream come true—a chance to accelerate her academic journey, to stand out even more. Yet, Jade's dreams lay elsewhere, in the realms of music and performance at Hollywood Arts. Skipping a grade could mean further distancing herself from that dream, from the chance to escape the rigid expectations of her current life.

"I will think about it," Jade finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. Inside, she harbored a secret hope that her parents, especially her mother, Ellen, would see the folly in this plan. Ellen, with her unyielding focus on social status and appearances, might not see the academic prestige in the same light if it meant jeopardizing the delicate social balance she meticulously curated for Jade.

The advisor nodded, understanding the gravity of the decision for Jade. "Take your time. Discuss it with your parents. This is about your future, Jade, and it's important that you feel confident in the path you choose," she advised, offering a supportive smile.

As Jade left the office, the sunlight seemed to cast longer shadows on the ground, mirroring her own uncertainties. The prestigious hallways of her school, once a path to academic accolades, now felt like a maze, each turn leading her further away from her true desires. This moment of academic crossroads was not just about choosing a grade; it was about choosing a life. And for Jade, the decision was anything but simple.

*

In the sprawling mansion that Jade called home, the living room was a testament to Ellen's impeccable taste and the West family's affluence. Opulent chandeliers cast a soft glow over the meticulously curated antiques and modern art pieces, each telling a story of wealth passed down through generations. The furniture, plush and rarely used, arranged with precision, created an atmosphere that was more showroom than living space. This was the backdrop for a rare moment of agreement between Jade and her mother, Ellen.

Ellen, ensconced on an elegant sofa that seemed more for show than comfort, waited for Jade with a posture that exuded authority and expectation. As Jade entered, the cool, formal air of the room wrapped around her like a familiar shawl, the distance between her and her mother palpable in the silence that followed.