Chapter 11 - Illegitimate Child (2/2)

”Alright,” Luna sighed. She didn't want her mother to overthink again and get worried about these things. ”Anyway, where's Julian? I thought he doesn't have class today,” she asked and continued to peel the fruit in her hand.

Elaine nodded and took a sip from her teacup.

”Julian said he will be late. He has a part-time job now.”

”What? Why didn't Julian tell me about it?”

Her little brother decided to take a part-time job to help her with the bills? Luna pondered if it's a good thing or not. Julian was doing well in school and would graduate soon with flying colors. She didn't want him getting distracted from studying.

”Because he doesn't want you to worry and blame yourself, that's why.”

Luna didn't say anything and kept her eyes on what she was doing. Maybe she should just let Julian do what he wanted since he wasn't really that young anymore, but still ... if only she could provide more for her family, her brother wouldn't be forced to work to help her.

”Luna? Luna?”

”What is it, mom?”

Elaine gave her a worried look before pointing a finger at her daughter's bag.

”You aren't listening. I said your phone keeps ringing.”

”Ohh ...”

A blush was threatening to spread on her cheeks, but Luna moved quickly to hide her embarrassment. She took her phone from her handbag and let her mother know she would be just outside. Checking on her phone, she saw twelve missed calls from her friend, Corinne. When her phone rang again, she answered it immediately.

”Corinne, what's up?”

”Luna, where are you? Struck on a traffic jam again? Jasper and Aiko will be leaving in an hour.”