THE PARTING OF WAYS

He didn't need to even hear an answer; her silence was enough.

Abel watched her in disbelief.

"Have you even stopped to think about the consequences of what you are doing?" he asked, unwilling to believe her despite seeing the determination in her eyes.

"Of course I have," she began.

Abel could already notice that stubborn look that had become her signature personality of late.

"California is big state Abe... and it's not like they are putting the band together at once. There's a two-year advanced music school program; by the time it's over, I will have turned eighteen already.

'But that wasn't even the problem.'

"You don't get it," Abel decided to try a different angle.

"By that time, turning eighteen will be the least of your problems. You have already used a fake identity. That is a felony, for hell's sake Hilsa !"