Where Memories Meet Tomorrow

Chapter 12- The Heart Remembers

Jessica and Alex were in the living room, sitting quietly as the evening breeze filtered through the window.

“Mom,” Alex began, “that man said he met you today.”

Jessica glanced at him, her eyes narrowing. “Yeah, he did. He came to you?”

“Yeah,” Alex replied simply.

“What did he say?” she asked, already suspecting.

“He said he wanted me with him to the U.S.”

Jessica scoffed, shaking her head. “He must be crazy.”

“Very crazy,” Alex agreed. “He has a female child now.”

“I know about it too.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. I heard it from someone close to him,” she replied calmly.

“Oh, okay then… Good night, Mom.”

“You haven’t told me your reply to him,” she added, raising a brow.

Alex smiled softly. “Trust me, Mom,” he said, walking out of her room.

---

Saturday

A sleek car pulled up outside Mrs. Williams’ house. It was Mr. Gabriel’s car. Inside, he looked hesitant, gripping the wheel tightly.

“I don’t think I can go with you,” Mr. Gabriel said.

“What’s wrong with you, Gabs?” Aunt Bola asked, clearly frustrated.

“I don’t have the mind to see him.”

“So what are you going to do?” she demanded.

“Go alone, Sis.”

“What?” she snapped.

“I’m sorry. I’ll come pick you up when you’re done,” he added softly.

“Don’t bother coming,” she said coldly, stepping out of the car and slamming the door.

At the house, Richard was already outside. He ran to meet her.

“Hey, Aunty!” Richard greeted happily.

“How are you doing? Your face hasn’t changed at all.”

“You’re funny,” he chuckled. “It’s just a week, aunty.”

Just then, Mrs. Williams arrived, returning from the restaurant. “Hey Aunty Bola,” she greeted warmly.

“Hi ma. You’re Richard’s...”

“Yes ma,” Mrs. Williams cut in quickly, not wanting her to say foster mother.

“Thanks for all you’ve done all these years.”

“It’s my pleasure,” Mrs. Williams smiled. “I love Richard as my own.”

“I see,” Aunt Bola replied happily.

They all ate together afterward, laughter filling the home.

When it was time to leave, Richard walked her to the front of the house.

“I’m worried about you, Richard,” she said quietly.

“Don’t be worried, Aunty,” he replied with a gentle smile.

She wanted so badly to mention his dad, but something in her heart held her back. She didn’t want to ruin his day.

“Okay,” she said. “Goodbye, kiddo.”

“Goodbye, Aunty,” he waved, watching her leave.

---

At School

Morning came and the school buzzed with usual chatter and energy. The day went smoothly.

After class, Kate hurried over to her friend.

“Hey, Lara!” she called out.

“What’s up?” Lara replied.

“Come closer,” Kate said, giggling.

Lara leaned closer, curious.

“I got a gift,” Kate whispered.

“Woah!” Lara exclaimed, eyes wide with excitement.