The Scent of 16

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Chapter 16

Jordyn wasn’t embarrassed or timid about having pushed or insulted Sylvia publicly earlier, and she didn’t care what other kids thought of her.

Yet as Celeste prepared to leave, she found herself reluctant to let go. “Mom…”

“Yes?” Celeste hugged her back, her voice warm. “What is it?”

“I want to

Jordyn suddenly remembered how long it had been since she last had one of Celeste’s home–cooked meals. The thought made her feel a pang of longing.

But before the words left her mouth, she recalled she had plans to watch Wynn’s competition that evening. Her eyes flickered with hesitation, and she let go of Celeste.

“It’s nothing.”

Celeste’s cooking, could wait as she could enjoy it anytime. Watching Wynn’s competition, on the other hand, a rare opportunity.

Without much deliberation, Jordyn made her choice.

“Alright, then. Hurry inside and don’t keep your teacher waiting.”

“Okay.”

was

Jordyn finally released her hold, but before stepping into the classroom, she turned back and added, “Mom, don’t forget to call me at lunchtime.”

Celeste nodded with a smile. “I won’t.”

Only then did Jordyn enter the classroom.

Celeste stood for a moment and watched as Jordyn confidently introduced herself to the class and then quietly took her seat

Then, after waving goodbye, Celeste left the school and headed to Fleming Group for work.

At the office, Celeste found Zeke waiting at her desk with someone else in tow.

“This is Naomi,” Zeke said. “She’ll be taking over your position.”

Naomi Sanders was strikingly beautiful and dressed in designer brands from head to toe. She gave Celeste a once- over, noting her polished and clean–cut demeanor.

Though Naomi’s gaze carried a hint of scrutiny, she masked it with a bright smile and extended her hand in greeting “Ms. Rodriguez, it’s a pleasure to meet you, I’m Naomi, and I’ll be learning from you for the next few days.”

Celeste shook her hand politely. “The pleasure’s mine.”

Naomi continued, “I just graduated from Trellis College this June with my master’s degree. Ms. Rodriguez, where did you study? Were you ”

Celeste raised an eyebrow at the mention of Naomi’s recent graduation. It suggested she might not have much work experience. Still, Celeste didn’t jump to conclusions.

Naomi could very well have unique strengths that made her suitable for the role. After all, Celeste herself had

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Chanter 16

become the team leader despite her colleagues‘ higher academic qualifications.

At this thought, Celeste cut her off softly.

“Ms. Sanders, we have a meeting shortly. Let’s focus on work for now.

Naomi laughed coquettishly. “Oh, of course! Sorry for getting sidetracked. Let’s discuss work.”

While on their way to the meeting, Naomi leaned closer and asked in a low voice, “I’ve heard Mr. Fleming is incredibly handsome. Is that true?”

Celeste answered honestly, “He is.”

Naomi beamed with excitement. “Now I’m even more eager to meet him! But Mr. Jackson mentioned he wouldn’t be coming to the office today… such a shame.”

That was news to Celeste, though it wasn’t unusual. Trevor had multiple businesses to manage and rarely spent every day at Fleming Group.

By lunchtime, Naomi dragged Celeste to the cafeteria for a meal. Once their trays were filled, Celeste took out her phone to call Jordyn.

Naomi teased, “Calling your boyfriend?”

“No, my daughter.”

“Your daughter? You’re married?”

“Yes.”

Meanwhile, Jordyn was on a video call with Wynn. Trevor was there too.

Jordyn pouted as she looked at the two of them. “You two are so mean! Eating together without me!”

“That’s because you’re at school. I’ll pick you up after school, and the three of us can have dinner together. Deal? said Wynn.

“That’s better.”

Jordyn then glanced at Trevor, who had just placed some food on Wynn’s plate.

“What do you want for dinner?” Trevor asked casually. “I’ll have.someone prepare it.”

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Chapter 17