Chapter 6

• Later, Emerald stood outside the cafeteria, doing her best to ignore the curious glances of passersby while waiting for Annie and Justin. Still, Zack's earlier words resonated in her mind, prompting her to exchange curious looks with those around her as she pondered the essence of life.
• As she searched mentally for answers that would satisfy her reflections, Annie and Justin came into view at the end of the hall, engrossed in conversation. Just as Annie's laughter rang out, a tall blonde girl, known for casting longing looks at Justin like he was something to be devoured, suddenly pulled him away from Annie's side.
• Annie's expression darkened with disappointment, a subtle shift that Emerald noticed even if her friend tried to mask it. As Annie approached and apologized for the delay, Emerald said, "I think we need to teach Justin how to politely decline people's demands."
• "You make him sound like a child," Annie chuckled, linking her arm with Emerald's as they headed toward the food counter, remembering Justin's food preferences.
• "I just worry about him. Those girls only seek to use him to satisfy their whims. I'm afraid they might take advantage of our sweet, innocent Justin," Emerald explained, her concern genuine.
• Annie resolutely set her chin as she observed the woman behind the counter attend to their order.
• "Justin can handle himself just fine. And did you seriously call him innocent? I wouldn't be shocked if he's involved with those girls who constantly flock around him."
• "You sound a bit bitter about it," Emerald remarked with a small grin, noting Annie's incredulous glare darting her way. Their conversation paused as they reached their table and began their lunch. Justin joined them shortly, quickly diving into his meal.
• "I can't do this anymore," Emerald exclaimed, dropping her half-eaten hamburger onto her plate.
• "What?" Annie and Justin looked at her with concern.
• "If I'm constantly being ogled as if there's a 'rich girl' sign plastered on my forehead, how can I enjoy my meal in peace? I might as well eat in the restrooms for some privacy."
• "Oh no, you're not doing that to yourself," Annie leaned closer with a reassuring smile. "They're just jealous of you."
• "Jealous of what? I'm the daughter of Dustin Fajardo, so what?" Their jaws dropped in shock, and Justin momentarily forgot about his beloved pasta. "What's with the dramatic reactions?" Emerald asked.
• "Do you even realize how wealthy your father is?" Annie asked incredulously.
• "Before thirty, he was already leaving an indelible mark on the stock market," chimed in Justin with his newly deepened voice. "Currently, he not only owns and manages the biggest companies in the industry, but he also intimidates his competitors with his unparalleled competence. His annual assets? They're in the billions."
• "I know all of that," Emerald replied, frowning.
• "And you're wondering why people stare at you? So many people wish they could trade places with you."
• "But do they have to stare so openly? A little discretion would be appreciated," she retorted.
• "They're just being human. Don't worry; in a few weeks, they'll find something else to focus on," Annie reassured.
• "I hope so," Emerald hoped aloud, yearning for the day she could stroll through the hallways without feeling scrutinized by countless eyes.
• "By the way, who was that woman I saw you two with yesterday?" Justin shifted the topic to something more significant. Annie glanced at Emerald for permission to divulge the details, as her curiosity was piqued.
• Emerald, picking up her burger, murmured almost inaudibly, "That was my biological mother."
• Annie's eyes widened in surprise.
• "Mrs. Fajardo isn't your mom?" Justin inquired, confusion etched on his face.
• "She didn't give birth to me, but she's my mother in every important way."
• "That's wild, Emerald. I thought that woman was pulling a fast one," Annie admitted with a snort, though inside, Emerald wished for a simpler maternal history.
• "What does she want?" Justin asked.
• "I think she wants to be part of my life again," Emerald replied, pondering the complex relationships in her life.
• "Do you want her to be?" Justin's question hung in the air, but without hesitation, Emerald replied with a firm 'no.' "Are you okay, though? I noticed you seemed a bit unsettled," Justin added, concern evident in his voice. Emerald nodded in response, and he gently patted her back. With that, they all turned their attention back to their food, words fading into silence.
• ---
• After a grueling day at school, Emerald felt the weight of exhaustion bear down on her, prompting her to contemplate how the rest of the term would unfold if these were only the early days. Yet, one thing remained certain: she could always replenish her energy in her most cherished sanctuary—home.
• Their house, distinct in character, stood out despite not aligning with the typical New York architectural style. It was surrounded by apartment buildings that came into view with a ten-minute walk from her front door. However, the home's uniqueness was of no concern to her, for its walls had absorbed countless memories and offered a profound sense of comfort, perfectly suited for a small family like theirs.
• From the quaint cluster of flowers by the porch to the calm, soothing colors of the building itself, it was undeniably home. The thought of retreating into its welcoming embrace, straight to her bed without disruptions, brought her much anticipation.
• Yet, upon opening the door, she was met not with the anticipated tranquility but with the sounds of a heated argument.
• .....
• Emerald stood at the edge of the room, her eyes fixed on her parents, as her father's voice resonated with unmistakable frustration and anger.
• "Who on earth does that woman think she is?" Dustin's voice cut through with a sharpness that left no room for misunderstanding, his anger directed at someone all too familiar to the family.
• Jocelyn's voice was calm, if a little weary, as she attempted to reassure him. "Dustin, she hasn't done anything harmful," she reminded him gently, although her fatigue was clear.
• "But why did she go to meet her at the school? What was her reason?" Dustin pressed further, his agitation evident. Emerald could imagine him carelessly tossing his suit jacket into a neglected corner, something he often did when distressed.
• Jocelyn folded her arms and smoothed her hair, striving to maintain her composure. "Because she's her mother, Dustin. We should just wait and see—"
• "Daisy doesn't deserve that title, and you know it. Haven't you remembered the entire episode with Sandra?"