The Red Ghoul {The Red Good Series: Book Zero}

ARC III: PART II

At a cozy café near Fawcett University, Diana and Jason shared a moment, laughing over their tea. Jason had a strong English Breakfast while Diana enjoyed her Jasmine tea. Their table was packed with delicious brunch goodies: smoked salmon finger sandwiches, crumbly cheese scones, buttery pistachio madeleines, and decadent chocolate bonbons.

They chatted easily, the conversation flowing with laughter and thoughtful pauses. For Jason, it was a break from his Creative Writing class and missions, a chance to relax. Diana cherished the time spent with her dear nephew.

Leaning back in her chair, Diana smiled as she saw two students—a guy and a girl—approach their table hesitantly. Jason greeted them warmly, his laid-back vibe putting them at ease. Their nervousness melted away, replaced with excitement.

"So, how are you guys finding the latest assignment?" Jason asked, genuinely interested.

The guy, Alex, shifted nervously but grinned. "It's challenging, but in a good way. I've been trying to incorporate your feedback from last time, and I think it's really helped improve my writing."

"That's great to hear," Jason nodded. "Keep pushing yourself, and you'll only get better."

The girl, Sam, chimed in excitedly, "I've been experimenting with different narrative styles, trying to find my voice. It's been hard, but I'm loving every minute of it."

"That's the spirit," Jason said with a supportive smile. "Writing is all about exploration. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. That's how you'll discover what works best for you."

Soon, the students had to head to their next class, but not before thanking Jason for his guidance. They left with smiles and a bounce in their step. Watching them go, Jason felt a deep sense of fulfillment. Knowing he had made a difference in their lives filled him with pride.

Turning to his Aunt Diana, he noticed her warm gaze, making his cheeks flush. "So, how's it going, Professor Head?" she asked, her voice full of genuine warmth.

Jason grinned, barely containing his excitement. "It's incredible, Aunt Diana. I never imagined teaching could be so fulfilling. Mentoring the next generation of writers—it's a dream come true."

He gushed about his students, each one shining with potential. "They're brilliant, Aunt Diana. I can see them doing amazing things—teaching, writing poetry, crafting novels, even reporting on big issues."

"And Sasha," he said, thinking of his prodigy and trusted TA. "She's something else. Just graduated from the English and Literature program, and now she's staying on for her master's degree. I couldn't be prouder."

Diana listened with a warm smile, her eyes glowing with pride. Watching Jason thrive as a professor filled her with joy. She felt grateful to witness his journey firsthand. To think they once believed his life was over—he had risen from the ashes and taken the world by storm. Her little warrior had grown, and she couldn't be prouder of her nephew.

Diana leaned forward, a wistful smile on her lips. "I've missed these moments, Jason," she said, her voice tinged with nostalgia. "Our brunches, training sessions, and just hanging out. Those were some of the best times of my life."

Her words hit Jason, stirring a mix of emotions. He felt a pang of sadness for the time they'd missed but also gratitude for the moments they'd shared. He realized his hiding had affected more than just him and Bruce—there were so many others who loved and missed him.

"Yeah, me too, Aunt Diana," Jason replied softly. "Those were some of the happiest times of my life. You've always been there for me."

Diana's smile widened, her eyes shining with affection. "You're my little warrior, Jason," she said proudly. "I've always been fiercely protective of you, and I always will be. You're my favorite, and everyone else can go fuck themselves."