The tension among them gradually dissipated as time passed. Amber was busy with her phone while drinking juice. Yasmin was conversing with Earl. Declan occasionally nodded and hummed.
"What are your plans after graduation?" Earl inquired. "Are you planning for higher studies?"
"Not at all." Yasmin shrugged. "I have no plans as of now. Maybe I will join Oregon. Or I will simply accept Derrek's offer."
"Derrek!"
"Derrek?"
Both Earl and Amber asked in unison, while Declan raised his eyebrows.
"Yeah!" Yasmin felt awkward at their surprised looks and wondered why they were acting that way. "He is developing games and needs artists. He is going to pay me well. I think it is fun… something different. I don't have to deal with paperwork, and I can pursue my dream of being an artist."
"That sounds promising." Earl smiled, his eyes crinkling once more.
