CAN I REWRITE MY STAR?

It's quite an unusual day, as rain fell unexpectedly, shining alongside the sun. Hazel, still tearful from a difficult morning, found the gentle downpour calming. The droplets washed away her tears, soothing her emotions and quieting her heart.

She has just been expelled from school.

Hazel stepped into the familiar confines of Pa Olu's compound, the largest in the slums she called home. But today, the usually vibrant atmosphere was shrouded in grief. A sea of somber faces filled the courtyard, their wails and sobs echoing through the air.

Hazel's heart sank as she followed the crowd's gaze to the small room she shared with her sister and mother. The source of the anguish was all too clear: tragedy had struck her own doorstep. Hazel's heart skipped a beat as she rushed towards the commotion. She burst into the room, her eyes scanning the scene before her. The sight took her breath away. Her elder sister, Hannah, was slumped over their mother's lifeless body, her face contorted in anguish.

Their mother lay still, her body cold and pale on the bed. Hazel's mind went blank, her thoughts frozen in shock. She tried to process the unbearable scene, but her brain refused to comprehend. She felt like she was drowning in a nightmare.

"Hazel, please...wake Mom up!" Hannah's voice cracked, her words dissolving into uncontrollable sobs. Hazel's eyes locked onto her mother's still form, fear clawing at her chest. She took a step forward, her legs trembling.

"Mo-" she whispered, but the word died on her lips. The room began to spin, darkness closing in. Hazel's knees buckled, and she crumpled to the floor, her vision fading to black.

_______

The ten families of Pa Olu's compound gathered solemnly, their faces etched with grief. Inside, Hannah sat frozen, surrounded by unbearable loss. Her mother lay lifeless, her sister Hazel unconscious, a spoon still clenched between her teeth. Outside, Mr. Akande, Pa Olu's eldest son and the compound's new landlord, addressed the gathering. "We'll arrange a simple burial. Big Tee and his team will help dig the grave, and we'll wrap her in a white cloth. We'll lay her to rest today."

Mama Nkechi, who had shared laughter and tears with Hazel's mother in the market as they sold vegetables together, shook her head.

"Just like that? Hannah's mom is gone" she whispered, her voice laced with sorrow.

Iya Bisi, the compound's notorious gossip and ewa agoyin seller, snapped at Mama Nkechi, "Nooo! How is it supposed to be?! You're just standing there, crying?"

Mrs. Akande intervened, her voice firm, "Iya Bisi, not today. Show some respect." Iya Bisi rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath.

A bystander, frustration etched on their face, spoke up, "It's strange no one knows her family members, not even her children. God, why did this have to happen?" Mama Nkechi's composure shattered, and she burst into tears.

"My friend didn't deserve this! God, why?!" she wailed.

Inside, Hazel stirred, her gaze locking onto Hannah. She rushed to her mother's side, her voice trembling despite her attempts to remain calm.

"Mommy, please wake up...please." Tears streamed down her face as she clutched her mother's lifeless body. Hannah's eyes met Hazel's, filled with shared despair.

****

Hours passed, and the somber preparations were complete.

Mrs. Williams' body, wrapped in a simple white cloth, lay ready for burial. The harsh reality of their poverty had denied her a mortuary stay, leaving this hasty farewell.

Pastor Johnson's solemn voice rose above the mourners, offering prayers for the deceased. Hannah and Hazel stood numb, their minds reeling from the sudden loss. Yesterday, their mother had been ill; today, she was gone.

As the men lifted Mrs. Williams' body, Hazel's fragile composure shattered. A heart-wrenching scream tore from her throat:

"Noooooooooo!!!" She lunged forward, but Hannah's arms enveloped her, holding her back. The grave, a stark reminder of their loss, yawned open. As the sand poured into the grave, memories of their mother flooded Hazel's mind. She relived laughter-filled moments, warm embraces, and gentle guidance.

"She can't be gone! Nooooooo!!" Hazel wailed, struggling to break free from Hannah's grasp. Her eyes fixed on the disappearing figure, her heart shattered. Hannah held her back, her own tears streaming down her face.

She closed her eyes, recalling her mother's words: "One day when it's just you and your little sister, protect her."

She remembered the conversation vividly, though she was only ten at the time. Now, the weight of those words crushed her. Hannah's grip on Hazel tightened, a silent promise to honor their mother's wish.

As the last mourners departed, Hannah and Hazel stood alone beside their mother's grave. They wrapped their arms around each other, unleashing a torrent of tears.

Mrs. Williams had been their rock, their guiding light. She had single-handedly raised these two resilient girls, nurturing their growth, and shaping their characters. The bond between them was unbreakable. Their father had abandoned them seventeen years ago, when Hannah was just three and Hazel was still in the womb. Mrs. Williams had faced unimaginable struggles, but her love and dedication never wavered. Now, in the silence of their grief, Hannah and Hazel mourned the loss of their hero, their confidante, and their best friend.

They sat beside the grave till midnight. Mama Nkechi walks in with her daughter,Nkechi, her face etched with concern.

"Hannah, it's late. You can't stay here all night. Bring your sister inside." Mama Nkechi's gentle tone contrasted with Hazel's desperation.

"Please, let us stay. Our mom will be alone out here. She needs our company." Hazel's said as tears streamed down her face.

Mama Nkechi's expression softened. Everywhere was quite, making Hazel sniffing sounds loud enough to be heard, and even crickets.

"Hannah,"Nkechi called softly. "No!" Hannah exclaimed, her voice firm. "Don't try to convince us, please." Mama Nkechi sat beside them, her expression compassionate. "When things like this happen, we say life happened.

This is life. People come and go, unexpectedly. You just have to move on and become better people, ones your mom would be proud of." She paused, her eyes locked on the sisters.

"Right now, you need to eat and sleep. Tomorrow is another day. You can't stay out here all night, you'll catch a cold." Hannah wiped away tears, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Thank you, ma." She stood, lifting Hazel gently. "Hazel and I will go to our room now. Thank you so much." As they rose, Mama Nkechi enveloped them in a warm hug.

"Goodnight, my dear ones. May God comfort you and heal your hearts" As they stepped into their room, Hazel felt an unsettling emptiness. She drifted to the window, her gaze falling upon the freshly dug grave behind their compound.

The reality hit her like a wave. "Dear Mom," Hazel whispered, her voice trembling. "I'll miss you so much, and it'll take time to accept this. But I hope you've found rest and perfect peace. Thank you for everything you did for Hannah and me. We'll make you proud, Mom. The world will see us soon." Hannah's tears flowed anew as she listened to Hazel's heartfelt words.

She wrapped her arms around her sister, holding her close. "We'll do it together, Hazel. We'll make Mom proud," Hannah whispered, her voice cracking. The sisters stood there, united in their grief, their faces wet with tears, their hearts heavy with sorrow.

******

A week had passed since their mother's passing, and Hannah was determined to maintain some semblance of normalcy. She swept the compound with purpose, singing softly to herself. Hazel emerged from their room, her movements sluggish. Hannah's gaze narrowed, noticing the tray in Hazel's hand.

"Where are you going?" Hannah asked, her tone firm. Hazel avoided her sister's eyes.

"Mr. Ahmad's farm. I need to get vegetables for sale." Hannah's expression turned suspicious.

"Hazel?" "Eh?" Hazel replied, feigning nonchalance.

"It's Monday," Hannah said, her voice laced with concern.

"Isn't your exam today?" Hazel's hesitation confirmed Hannah's fears. She stared at her sister, dismayed.

"I was expelled," Hazel said, her voice barely above a whisper. Hannah's eyes widened in shock.

"What?! Why? How? When?" Hazel's fake smile twisted her face.

"The Beatrice case. Everyone thinks I did it." Hannah's expression crumpled.

"But that's not true!" Hazel's voice cracked. "It doesn't matter. No school will accept me now. And we can't afford private education. I'm a dropout."

Pain etched Hannah's face. "How am I just now hearing about this? Shouldn't we go plead with the principal?"

Hazel shook her head, her eyes welling up. "It won't work, Hannah. They all hate me." Hazel turned and walked out of the compound, leaving Hannah stunned and heartbroken.

Jason's alarm blared relentlessly, shattering his peaceful slumber. With a groggy swipe, he silenced it, only to be assaulted by his ringing phone.

"Oh, Jesus!" Jason exclaimed, frustration etched on his face as he sat up, rubbing his eyes.

He stared at the phone, hesitating before finally answering.

"Yeah?" Jason drawled, his tone nonchalant.

"Jason, it's 8 am. You have a shoot with GFC at 10, and you're still in bed," his manager, Mr. Adewunmi, chimed in, his voice firm but laced with concern.

Jason's gaze snapped to the clock, and his lethargy vanished. Jason rolled his eyes, exasperation etched on his face.

"Can't the shoot be rescheduled? I've barely had enough sleep."

Mr. Adewunmi's firm tone brooked no argument. "Your father is waiting."

Jason's frustration simmered. "Just whatever," he muttered, annoyed.

"Mia is outside your house with the driver," Mr. Adewunmi continued. "Get ready ASAP so you can arrive promptly for makeup."

Jason's patience snapped. "Mr. Ade, we really need to discuss the workload of the past few weeks. The brand is suffocating me."

Mr. Adewunmi's enthusiasm was unwavering. "The brand is getting bigger, Jay! Jason's retort was sharp.

"It's high time I take a break!" He hung up, slamming his phone onto the bed.

The silence was a brief respite. Jason's gaze fell upon his broken alarm clock, a symbol of his chaotic morning.

He sighed, resigned, and headed to the bathroom. Jason Gilbert, the sole heir to the Gilbert empire, was born into a life of luxury. His parents, billionaire entrepreneurs, founded and owned Gilbert Fashion Company (GFC), the world's largest and most renowned fashion conglomerate.

At just 24, Jason had already achieved unparalleled success. As a model, his career spanned nearly two decades, beginning at age six when GFC was still in its infancy. His cherubic face and charming persona had captivated audiences, propelling the company to unprecedented heights. Now, as a freelance model, Jason was in high demand. Top fashion brands clamored for his endorsement, eager to leverage his influence to promote their products. With over 100 million followers across social media platforms, Jason was one of the most followed celebrities globally. His name was synonymous with style, sophistication, and glamour.

From the confident, pint-sized runway sensation to the handsome, grown man he had become, Jason's evolution was nothing short of remarkable. Jason's striking appearance turned heads wherever he went. His light skin and chiseled features made him a stunningly handsome young man. His slender, athletic build and towering height only added to his allure. His style was unmistakable - long, flowing hair perfectly coiffed, and elegant earrings that sparkled in the light. Every aspect of his appearance seemed meticulously crafted to accentuate his natural charm. It was no wonder that Jason had captured the hearts of countless girls. His mesmerizing gaze, captivating smile, and effortless charisma left a trail of admirers in his wake.

>>>>>>>

Jason descended the grand staircase of their opulent mansion, his footsteps quiet on the plush carpet. He was halted mid-step as his sister, Jasmine, joined him, her elegant heels clicking softly.

"Heading out early?" Jasmine asked, raising an eyebrow as she took in Jason's designer tracksuit.

Her gaze transformed from inquiry to amusement, a warm smile spreading across her face. As the twenty-six-year-old CEO of Jaz-glitters, a thriving makeup brand, Jasmine exuded poise and confidence.

With her striking resemblance to Jason, Jasmine was the epitome of elegance, her beauty tempered by kindness and compassion.

Unlike her brother's sometimes troubled persona, Jasmine's warmth and sweetness drew people to her.

"Yup, GFC's launching a new design today," Jason replied, his tone neutral. Jasmine's eyes sparkled.

"No wonder Dad left for work early. I heard it's a huge collection and tons of people have already preordered."

Jason shrugged, his expression unbothered. "Their problem." Jasmine's hand settled on his shoulder, concern etched on her face.

"Jaaaayyyyyy!" she cooed.

Jason frowned, shrugging off her touch. "I'm really not in the mood."

Undeterred, Jasmine asked, "Should I treat you to lunch later?" Jason's response was swift.

"Nah, I'm meeting Timi." Jasmine's gaze lingered, sensing her brother's turmoil.

Jasmine's voice was laced with concern. "You're still struggling to get over her?"

Before Jason could respond, his mother burst into the room, a warm smile on her face.

"My baby!" Mrs. Gilbert exclaimed, rushing to Jason's side.

She grasped his arm, offering him a steaming cup of hot tea.

"Here, darling, drink this. You look tired."

"Thanks, Mom," Jason said, accepting the tea and taking a soothing sip.

Jasmine rolled her eyes good-naturedly and headed to the kitchen, a maid trailing behind her. Mrs. Gilbert's gaze turned anxious.

"Are you stressed, sweetie? I barely saw you yesterday, and today's shoot will be a lot."

Jason forced a reassuring smile. "It's fine, Mom."

He gulped down the remaining tea, then pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek. "Bye, Mom."

"Bye, baby," Mrs. Gilbert replied, her voice filled with affection.

Jason stepped out into the bright morning light, where Mia, his efficient personal assistant, awaited him beside his sleek luxury car. His driver stood attentively by the open door.

"Good morning, sir," Mia greeted, her voice crisp and professional.

Jason strode past her, his expression aloof, and slid into the car without acknowledging her greeting. The driver closed the door behind him. Mia's expression remained composed as she shut the door and took her seat in the front.

The driver expertly navigated the vehicle out of the Gilbert estate, merging into the morning traffic.

>>>>>

The photoshoot stretched on, with Jason posing in five different color variations of the same outfit alongside top GFC female models.

Finally, Director James exclaimed, "That's a wrap! We're calling it a day!"

Jason swiftly checked his watch and walked away, while Mia hastened to bring him his coffee.

"Thank you," Jason said, accepting the cup and taking a refreshing sip.

"3 pm already." He shook his head, dismayed. "Mr. James?" Jason called out.

James, a seasoned director in his early fifties, hurried over, his demeanor respectful.

"Sir?" Despite their age difference, James showed remarkable deference to Jason, reflecting the young model's influence and stature in the industry.

"Erm... I want to review the pictures before they're published. It's essential," Jason said, his tone firm.

Mr. James nodded deferentially, a slight bow accompanying his response. "Oh, definitely, sir." He retreated, leaving Jason to his coffee.

"Mia, my phone," Jason requested, downing the remaining liquid.

Mia hastened to retrieve his phone, which she had been charging nearby.

As she returned with the device, Jason's manager, Mr. Adewunmi, arrived with a selection of gourmet food. "The chef prepared your favorites, Jason," Mr. Adewunmi said with a warm smile.

The female models couldn't tear their gaze away from Jason, their phones discreetly capturing videos and photos. Jason was accustomed to the attention, his expression impassive.

"Is my car ready?" Jason asked Mr. Adewunmi, his tone hinting at impatience. Mr. Adewunmi sidestepped the question, his voice laced with concern.

"I got your favorite food, Jay. You look exhausted."

Jason's gaze narrowed. "Mr. Ade?" he pressed, seeking a direct answer.

"Yes, your car is ready," Mr. Adewunmi replied swiftly.

Mia handed Jason his phone, her expression expectant. However, Jason's next words caught her off guard.

"Mia, you can have the food. I won't need your services anymore." With that, Jason turned and walked away. Mia stood stunned, her eyes wide with surprise.

Mr. Adewunmi forced a warm smile as he handed her the food, before hurrying after Jason. "Jay, Jay-Jason!" Mr. Adewunmi called out, his voice tinged with urgency. Jason stepped into the elevator, the doors sliding shut just as Mr. Adewunmi reached it.

Undeterred, Mr. Adewunmi took the stairs, determined to catch up. Meanwhile, Jason emerged from the building, where his driver waited with his sleek car.

"I'll drive myself, thank you," Jason said, collecting the keys.

As he settled into the driver's seat, Mr. Adewunmi appeared, slightly out of breath. "Jay, do you want to kill me?" Mr. Adewunmi exclaimed, his voice laced with exasperation.

Jason's expression remained impassive as he shut the door behind him. "What is it, Mr. Ade?" Jason asked, his tone neutral, through the open window.

Mr. Adewunmi leaned against the car, his voice urgent. "Mia is an exceptional assistant. We only hired her a month ago, and you know how challenging it was to find someone reliable for you."

Jason's gaze never wavered, his silence speaking volumes. "She'll find a better opportunity, GFC will see to it," Jason said, his voice firm, before starting the engine and speeding away.

As he navigated through the city streets, his phone rang, shattering the silence. "Hey, bro," Jason answered, his tone relaxed.

"Where have you been? I've been trying to reach you!" Timi exclaimed, his voice laced with frustration.

"Work," Jason replied succinctly. "Found anything?" Jason asked, his interest piqued.

Timi chuckled. "Something you'll love."

Jason's curiosity was sparked, his grip on the steering wheel tightening, he drove in full speed.

A Lamborghini park right in front of GFC, men on black suit waiting outside GFC quickly open the car door. Mr. Gilbert alighted, his eyes fixed on the speeding car.

"Is that...?" He removed his glasses, squinting. "Is that Jason?"

Mr. Adewunmi approached, looking flustered, and scratched his hair.

"Good morning... evening, Mr. Gilbert," Mr. Adewunmi stammered, attempting a greeting.

But Mr. Gilbert's expression was stern. "My office, now!" he commanded, his voice firm and authoritative.

Mr. Adewunmi's eyes widened, sensing trouble.

Hazel's bright smile lit up the market as she hawked her wares.

"Fresh veggies hereeeee!!"

A middle-aged woman eyed her produce, and Hazel pounced on the interest.

"Auntie, buy o! Very fresh."

Just as the woman was about to respond, Iya Bisi's venomous voice sliced through the air.

"Veggies??? Or vegetable?!" Iya Bisi sneered from her nearby shop.

Hazel's smile never wavered. "Actually, 'veggies' is a colloquialism, while 'vegetable' refers to a single item," she replied, her tone light.

Iya Bisi's face darkened. "Always acting like you're so smart. Got expelled, didn't you?"

Hazel's gaze met Iya Bisi's, her voice taking on a subtle edge. "Yes, I got expelled. But before that, I consistently ranked top of my class. Meanwhile, your daughter struggled to pass."

Iya Bisi's anger boiled over. "You think you're better than us?" Hazel shrugged, her expression serene.

"It's a lovely afternoon. Why not focus on your own business?"

Iya Bisi's retort was predictable. "Very stupid girl."

Hazel's smile returned, unwavering. "Have a great day, Iya Bisi."

Hazel's voice rang out across the market, unfazed by Iya Bisi's earlier jibe.

"Fresh veggies hereee!!" As she walked alongside two women haggling over soup ingredients, Hazel's ears perked up at their hushed conversation.

"Isn't that the woman who died last week's daughter?" one woman asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Hazel's gaze remained fixed on her vegetables, while she eavesdropped on the women.

"Which woman?" The woman's friend asked, confusion etched on her face.

"I don't know her name, but they live in Pa Olu's compound, deep in Agboroko slum," the first woman replied.

"Ahh! Mama Nkechi's friend," the second woman exclaimed.

"Exactly," the first woman nodded.

"Ahh, what a world we live in," the second woman sighed.

Hazel chimed in, her voice laced with emotion. "Exactly, ma! So unpredictable. But, ma, if you buy vegetables from me today, my sister and I can eat and pay some bills. My mom's passing has been tough." Hazel's eyes cast downward, a hint of sadness flickering across her face.

The women exchanged sympathetic glances, and one reached out to pat Hazel's shoulder. "how much do you sell?" Hazel face brighten up with a huge smile.

******

Hannah sat behind the counter of the small store, her eyes gazing out the window as her mind wandered. Her job paid minimal wages, barely enough to cover their expenses, but it was better than nothing.

She pulled out a worn notebook and began to write, tears welling up in her eyes as memories flooded her mind. She had once dreamed of becoming an author or journalist, inspired by her journalism studies. But life had other plans.

Three years ago, she secured university admission, only to be halted by financial constraints. Her mother's savings weren't enough to cover tuition, let alone other expenses.

"Hazel can't end up like me," Hannah thought, determination etched on her face. "If she does, our struggles will be for nothing."

She whispered a desperate prayer, "Dear God, please, somehow, make a way." With renewed resolve, she scribbled "Chapter One" in her notebook.

Just then, the door swung open, and Tundun walked in, his warm smile lighting up the space. Hannah's face brightened, and she set aside her notebook.

"What can I help you find today?" she asked, her voice infused with a newfound sense of hope. Tundun's arms wrapped around Hannah, pulling her into a warm, comforting hug. The familiarity of his embrace transported her back to their high school days at Agboroko Grammar School, where her sister Hazel now faced expulsion.

"Everything will be fine," Tundun whispered, his breath gentle against Hannah's ear, soothing her frazzled nerves.

As she clung to him, memories flooded her mind. She recalled the devastating car accident that claimed Tundun's parents when they were just fifteen. The pain and loss had bonded them, forging an unbreakable friendship.

Hannah's eyes stung, but she held back tears, savoring the solace of Tundun's hug. She pulled away, composing herself, and nodded bravely.

"I hope so. What's up?"

Tundun's face lit up with an infectious smile.

"I'm leaving tomorrow." He had earlier gotten signed to a record label abroad, after he posted a video of him singing online, they immediately reached.

"My flight is for 10am"

Hannah chuckled, tears finally breaking free. "Look at who just got his life all fixed!" She quickly dabbed at her eyes, but Tundun was already there, gently wiping away her tears with his thumb. "I'm sorry" she quickly said

"It's fine," he said softly. Hannah's smile returned, tinged with envy.

"Congratulations! I'm so happy for you." Her voice lilted with playfulness.

"When I make it big, I'm definitely marrying you!" Tundun laughed, his eyes crinkling.

"You dummy!" Hannah teased, her laughter infectious. Her expression turned wistful. "I'll miss you so much. Let's go for a drink tonight, one last time?"

Tundun nodded, and Hannah's face lit up. "Let's get drunk again! Who'll I drink with when you're gone? Hazel's way too young."

Tundun smiled, his voice low and reassuring. "I'll be back before you know it. And who knows, maybe by then Hazel will be old enough to join us."

"Sounds like you'd away for a long time" she said, sadly.

"I will be back before you notice" he said, sending her an assuring smile.

****

As the plane soared into the sky, Jason and Timi exchanged knowing glances, their faces mirroring each other's joy.

"How do I explain to my family that trips like this cure my depression?" Jason chuckled.

Timi grinned. "You'll figure it out when we return in three months."

Jason's laughter faded, replaced by a resolute tone. "As soon as we get back, I'm moving out."

Timi's eyebrows rose. "I've always told you."

Jason's gaze drifted out the window, his voice barely above a whisper. "I was always considering Mom, but Dad... he's making my life unbearable."

Timi's expression softened, but then his eyes sparkled with mischief. "Or maybe you're still not over Aliya."

Jason's head snapped back, his eyes locking onto Timi's. The smile had vanished, replaced by a mixture of surprise and unease.

Timi had unwittingly blown his cover. Aliya.

The name echoed in Jason's mind, stirring up emotions he thought he'd suppressed.

The reason behind his moodiness and depression over the past week.

"I know it's not easy, but did you stare at your pictures with her again?" Timi asked anxiously. "It's been two months, Jason."

Jason hesitated before responding, "She sent a text. She wanted to check up on me."

Timi's expression darkened. "Where's your phone?"

Jason's brow furrowed. "Why?"

Timi's voice rose in anger. "It's high time you block her off. She's playing with your mind. Can't you see it?"

Jason's silence spoke volumes.

The two friends had been inseparable since meeting at age eight. Their families often misunderstood their dynamic, with the Gilberts believing Timi influenced Jason's rebellious streak, while Timi's parents thought Jason led him astray. But the truth lay elsewhere. Jason and Timi shared a thrill-seeking bond, always chasing adrenaline and disregarding consequences.

Timi's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ojo, were renowned medical professionals, owners of JO Hospital, the city's premier healthcare facility. The hospital's reputation drew patients from worldwide, boasting top-notch doctors and nurses. As the third of four sons, Timi's family legacy was rooted in medicine. His brothers followed in their parents' footsteps, studying medicine and surgery. However, Timi's passions lay elsewhere. Against his wishes, his parents sent him to the US to study medicine, hoping to sever his close bond with Jason. But Jason, with his billionaire father's resources, followed Timi abroad. Defying expectations, Timi discovered his true calling in music. He soared to fame, becoming one of Africa's top three musicians. His bad-boy image was cemented by constant touring and rare visits home – let alone to the family hospital.

"Maybe...just maybe she still likes me," Jason said, a hint of hope in his voice.

"She never said she didn't, just that she needed time to focus on herself and her career."

Timi shook his head, incredulous. "For a guy with so many girls dying to have you, I can't believe you're acting all dumb for a girl who cares more about her athletic career than you."

Jason's eyes flashed open, a defensive spark within. "You've never been in love, Timi. What do I expect from you anyway?" His tone turned weary. "I've had a long day. I need to sleep."

Jason adjusted his seat, covering himself with a blanket and closing his eyes.

Timi poked him playfully. "I'll make you forget her."

Jason's eyes remained shut, but a hint of a smile appeared. "Let me see you try."