Stress panged through Jioni’s face, but she felt genuine happiness for Brandon. But a conflicted furrow brow came when she realized it wasn’t fair. Mac was right, the community lessons were less than perfect and both Jioni and Kathy were proof of it. Though the sentiment brought her down, there was no need to feel jealous: Brandon’s smile made her smile, and she was proud of him.
Jioni swept aside her thoughts and focused her attention on the task. She was halfway there to the back of the building and she became increasingly anxious with every step. Not only did she have to worry about herself, but now those two. She climbed a branch, which caused the building to whine. Jioni’s breathing became shallow.
“Last time I checked, I thought you said you weren’t coming here again—like ever,” Kathy said. She kept pace with Jioni while Brandon still dragged behind.
