"You two can go home now. Jessica, you're seventeen years old now; even if you're tired, you should have the self-discipline not to disrupt the class. You may not care about your studies, but other people do!"
The final words were emphatic, and I saw Jessica's eyes instantly well up with tears.
"I understand, Ms. Miller."
Seeing Jessica's hurt expression filled me with both helplessness and heartache. I could only take her by the hand and lead her out.
I knew teenagers were incredibly sensitive, and while I wanted to have a serious talk with Jessica about her attitude towards her studies, I had no idea how to begin.
Our home was just across the street from the school, a ten-minute walk. Jessica kept her head down, crying the entire way.
When we finally opened the door, we were hit by the strong smell of chili peppers.
Mia, Mia Williams, was wearing an apron as she placed the last dish on the table, looking at us impatiently.
"You finally decided to come back, huh? Do you even know what time it is?"
I frowned, looking at the table laden with spicy dishes and then at Sophia, Sophia Williams, who was eating voraciously at the table. A surge of anger welled up inside me.