JASMINE

Chapter 1

*Jasmine*

I zipped up my last suitcase, the sound echoing in the now-empty dorm room of Magnolia University. The walls, that once showcased my posters and pictures, stood bare, a stark contrast to the life they held just hours before. I took a moment to look around, letting the reality sink in. I was finished with college, and it was time to head back to my hometown, Willow Creek. Even though I enjoyed college, it's nice to finally go back home.

I stacked my suitcases by the door, my phone buzzed with yet another message from Cassie, my childhood best friend. A smile spread across my face as I read her enthusiastic words. Cassie's excitement was infectious, and I couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation for the summer ahead.

With a major in Early Childhood Education and Development, I wanted to gain some practical experience. Babysitting seemed like the perfect opportunity. It would allow me to apply my knowledge, and hopefully make a difference in a child's life. My thoughts drifted to my mother, Maria, who had always encouraged me to follow my passion.

My moms unwavering support was what guided me through the toughest times and long nights of studying. She has always supported everything that I did, and I am truly thankful for her. Raising a child on her own wasn't easy, but due to the passing of my father when I was only seven, life gave her no choice. She was a beautiful Puerto Rican woman with long hair and a warming smile that would make anyone feel welcomed. I couldn't wait to have one of her home-cooked meals, and to just be in the comfort of her presence.

My dad was of African American descent. Him and my mother met at a local fair and from the stories they would tell me it was love at first sight. The rest is history. I am a mixture of the both of them, having long brunette curly hair, full lips and what my mother would call "innocent doe eyes". I stood at 5'4 and had a nice little shape if I do say so myself. When my dad was alive he was the best father a girl could have. I was constantly on his heels. He had a profession in building exotic cars and as he worked he would teach me. Sadly his passion for cars is what lead to his death. I miss him tremendously but I think he would be proud of the young woman I've become today.

My mother worked hard to get me here, working overtime at the bank to save up for my tuition. So I made sure to do my best in school. I never went to any frat parties, never drank, and never hung out where I knew I wasn't supposed to be. Some friends I made on campus would always try to pressure me to go out, saying that it was apart of the college experience. But that just wasn't my scene. I knew what happened at those parties, and I didn't want to end up in a situation like my friend Bell. She had to leave school because she ended up pregnant by one of the guys. I tried to avoid that kind of trouble.

Some would call me a goody too shoes, miss innocent and stuck up. Maybe I was a Little innocent but I never cared what was said about me. My logical thinking is what has kept me safe.

My phone buzzed again. This time, it was a notification from a local community board in my hometown. I lived in a mid size town. Willow Creek was very family oriented. They would have community gatherings and events. The population was around 6000 and growing as the years pass. Some would consider Willow Creek the perfect place to live because of the beautiful country sides and the option to travel down to the beach about two hours away. Magnolia University resided on the coast, so I wasn't too far away from home but far enough away to get off from under my mothers wing. My plan was to find a child care job back at home. A family new to the area was looking for a summer babysitter/housekeeper for their two young children. It felt like fate. With a hopeful heart, I sent a reply, my fingers tapping away with a mix of nerves and excitement.

I took one last look at my dorm as I grabbed up my suitcases and closed the door. I had to return my keys to the front desk and wait on mom to come pick me up. She said she would arrive shortly. I was hoping this babysitting gig would come through for me and I couldn't wait to get back home.