Before dawn

Chapter 9: Surprise's and secrets

Jessie woke up with a flutter in her chest, replaying last night's magical moments with Logan. Their first date had exceeded her expectations, and she couldn't wait to see him again.

Katty texted Jessie: "Victoria's asking questions about you and Logan. Be careful."

Jessie's excitement began to fade, replaced by unease.

Jessie's mom walked in, carrying a suitcase and wearing a tired smile.

"Hey, sweetie! Surprise!"

Jessie's mind raced. Her mom never came home without warning.

"Mom, what's going on? Is everything okay?"

Her mom waved dismissively. "Just needed a break from work. I'll be here for a few days."

Jessie's anxiety spiked. She hadn't told Logan about her mom's visit.

Logan texted Jessie: "Can't wait to see you at the game today!"

Jessie hesitated, unsure how to break the news.

"Hey, Logan. Something unexpected came up. My mom's here."

Logan's response: "That's cool! Looking forward to meeting her!"

Jessie's heart sank. Logan had no idea.

"Logan, it's not that simple. She's never home, and I don't know how she'll react to...us."

Logan's tone turned serious: "We'll figure it out together. See you soon?"

Jessie's unease deepened.

Victoria texted Jessie: "You think you're special, but Logan will soon see the real you."

Jessie's determination hardened. She wouldn't let Victoria sabotage her chance at happiness.

Jessie stood at a crossroads, torn between loyalty to her mom and her growing feelings for Logan. Logan's arrival would change everything.

Here's the continuation of Chapter 9:

_Continuation of Chapter 9_

Jessie took a deep breath and turned to her mom. "Hey, Mom? Would you like to come with me to Logan's game today?"

Her mom raised an eyebrow. "A school game? That sounds...fun."

Jessie sensed hesitation but pressed on. "It'll be great. You can meet Logan and his friends."

Her mom's expression softened. "Okay, dear. I'd love to."

Jessie's anxiety eased slightly. Maybe this could work.

As they arrived at the game, Jessie spotted Logan warming up on the field. Her mom followed her gaze.

"Jessie, who's the tall, handsome boy?" her mom asked, a hint of amusement in her voice.

Jessie's cheeks flushed. "That's Logan."

Just then, Victoria appeared beside them, a sly grin spreading across her face.

"Hey, Jessie! Introduce me to your mom," Victoria said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Jessie's instincts warned her to stay calm. "Mom, this is Victoria. We're...acquaintances."

Victoria's grin widened. "We're more than that, Jessie. We're classmates. And I have to say, your mom looks...familiar."

Jessie's mom frowned. "Have we met before, Victoria?"

Victoria's eyes sparkled with malice. "Not exactly. But I've heard a lot about you, Mrs....?"

Jessie's mom introduced herself, and Victoria's smile grew.