Chapter one of Jaqine: College is Complicated
- jackie Barnes

- Jul 12
- 3 min read

Chapter One
Last few days of vacation
The California air smelled so good, especially for the breakfast that Jaqine’s Uncle Gary cooked for them on this warm, sunny morning. Her uncle had plans for them before Jaqine, her mom, Jody, and their baby brother Josh had to go back home to RolynBrick City on Mayhale Street. Their dad, Jahir, had to stay back home in RolynBrick City for work, but he always managed to travel to California for important summer events like Uncle Gary and her Aunt Shally's anniversary, one of her cousins’ milestone birthdays, and so much more that happened during the summer. After breakfast, Jaqine went to the guest room she shared with her mom, Jody, during their three-month vacation in California, and got on her cell phone to catch up with her friends. She called her two best friends, Tasha and Candice, in a three-way call to tell them about her trip. “Hey, guys, you won't believe how much fun I'm having on my trip to California,” Jaqine said excitedly. “That's great to hear! What have you been up to so far?” Tasha asked. “Well, so far we've spent a lot of time at the beach and gone on amazing hikes. We also got to visit Disneyland, which was my dream come true,” Jaqine replied. “That sounds incredible! Are you sad that your trip is coming to an end?” Candice asked. “In a little bit. My uncle has some more surprises for us before we leave, but I'm also excited to get back home and see everyone. I miss my dad so much,” Jaqine said with a smile. “And don't forget about us!” Tasha joked. “Of course not! I can't wait to catch up with you and tell you both all about my trip in person,” Jaqine said. “I can't wait to hear all about it. Safe travels back home!” Candice said. “Thanks, talk to you both soon!” Jaqine replied before hanging up. Jaqine joined her family in the living room just as her mom, Jody, asked Uncle Gary, “Have you talked to Tisha about what she wants to do after high school?” Gary replied, “Yes! She's been thinking about pursuing a career in computer science. It's impressive how much she knows already.” Jody nodded. “That's amazing. Tisha is very talented.” Suddenly, Tisha piped up. “Yeah, Aunt Jody, I've been working on a software project for the past few months, and I'm proud of it.” Jaqine added, “I've seen her working on it, and it looks cool.” Gary turned to Tisha and said, “I know that has been all that Tisha wanted to do since learning how to use a computer. We have only had this desktop for a couple of months now.” Jody said, “I have a friend who works in tech. Maybe I can introduce you to her.” Tisha's face lit up. “That would be amazing! Thank you so much, Aunt Jody!” Jaqine looked at Tisha and continued, “Do you remember that one time when we were on the swing, and Dad pushed me so high I thought I was going to touch the sky?” Tisha chuckled. “Yes, I remember that! And then my dad tried to outdo your dad by pushing me even higher.” They laughed at the memory. Jaqine said, “Those were the good old days. I miss spending time with our cousins and our families all together.” Tisha nodded. “Me too. But at least we have these memories to cherish forever.” She continued, “We should definitely visit you in RolynBrick.” Jaqine smiled, an idea popping into her head. “I know! You and your siblings can come visit us for a sleepover before I go away to college. What do you think? Can they, Uncle Gary, Mom?” Uncle Gary and Jody looked at each other. Jody sighed, “We will think about it.” Then Uncle Gary spoke up. “Since you four are leaving in a couple of days, I have a couple of surprises for you that you can take home as souvenirs from California.”

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