Chapter 21 Dropping Out
Finished
The young man looked up and saw the beautiful girl standing before him. He froze for a moment, his ears turning slightly red as he said, “We’re not open yel
Her skin was pale like snow, her lips crimson, and her teeth dazzlingly white.
It was the first time in his life he’d ever seen a girl this stunning.
Her looks were so striking that even the most popular girl at their school would pale in comparison.
At that moment, the owner of the barbecue restaurant. Helga, walked out from the back. When she saw Jocelyn, she greeted her with a smile. “You finally made it! Did you bring your ID?”
“I did.”
Jocelyn handed her ID to Helga
You’re only 18:”
“Yes” Jocelyn nodded.
Helga chuckled. “You’re the same age as my son. He’s 18 too, but he’s still in his senior year of high school.”
Jocelyn smiled faintly but didn’t say anything.
Helga began explaining the job. “In this line of work, you’ve got to stay alert and be quick on your feet…”
The job involved a lot–carrying trays, cleaning, and tidying up tables after customers left.
The young man watched Jocelyn intently, his brow furrowing slightly. So, she was here for a job?
Was it a summer job, or was she working full–time?
If it was full–time, that would mean she hadn’t even finished high school.
Her education must be lacking, he thought.
Helga gave Jocelyn a tour of the restaurant. The entire space, including the kitchen, was only about 970 square feet, with more than 20 tables packed into it.
This place isn’t too busy right now,” Helga explained, but once we open, it’s nonstop. Your tasks will be varied, Jocelyn, and no complaining about being tired, okay?”
“Got it,” Jocelyn replied with a nod
Helga then introduced Jocelyn to a middle–aged woman. “Louisa, this is Shana’s daughter, Jocelyn. She’ll be taking over Shana’s shifts for a month starting today. Let her know what to watch out for.”
Louisa, her hair dyed blonde, wore a chunky gold ring on her ring finger and a thick gold bracelet on her wrist. She looked at Jocelyn in surprise. “Oh! I had no idea Shana had such a beautiful daughter!
but was a quiet person who rarely chatted with anyone. Most of
Shana had worked at the barbecue shop for over two years but the staff didn’t know much about her personal life.
Helga turned back to Jocelyn. “If you have any questions about the job, just ask Louisa.”
“Okay” Jocelyn nodded.
After a bit more discussion, Helga headed back to the front of the restaurant. At the counter, she sipped some water while scolding her son, “Fritz! You better keep studying hard and aim for a good university next year! Make me proud! Don’t end up like that girl–working at such a young age, with no prospects at all.”
1.24 PM
Chapter 21 Dropping Out
Finished
“Okay, Mom.” Fritz replied with a nod. “I know” He was a top student in his class, with no issue getting into a first–tier university. With a little more effort, he could even aim for a prestigious one.
“You’re the best!” Helga beamed with pride. If your hand gets tired from writing, take a break. There’s some watermelon in the fridge. I’ll get you some.”
“Sure.”
Helga adored her son. When cutting the watermelon, she even carefully removed all the seeds for him.
As night fell, more and more customers trickled into the barbecue restaurant.
Jocelyn worked without complaint–cleaning tables, and sweeping floors–efficiently handling each task without a hitch.
Louisa nudged Helga with her elbow. Who would’ve thought Jocelyn would be so capable!”
Seeing how pretty Jocelyn was, Louisa had assumed she was just here to fool around. But to her surprise, Jocelyn was quick and meticulous, leaving no room for criticism.
Helga shrugged. Kids from poor families learn to fend for themselves early. When I was her age. I was doing everything. even herding cattle!”
“That was back then. Louisa countered. “Nowadays, girls are all pampered.”
Helga nodded. “That’s true. But what’s the point of being hardworking without an education? She’s pretty, sure, but dropping out so young to work? What future does she have!”
To Helga, it was obvious that a girl as pretty as Jocelyn must have her mind wrapped up in dating, with no time to focus on school.
Especially a girl like Jocelyn–so stunning that she’d probably had several boyfriends alread probably not even a virgin anymore.
Helga scoffed inwardly, She’s
