A Life Beyond Limits novel Chapter 144

Jack said to Phoebe, "I've got something to take care of, so I'll be heading out now. Let's catch up another time."

The people around them exchanged knowing looks. At least he knew when to leave. He clearly wasn't welcome here, so he was smart enough to make himself scarce.

Phoebe, understanding Jack's position, gave him a small nod and stood up. "I'll walk you out."

But Jack quickly waved her off. "No need. Stay and enjoy the party with your friends."

Just as he was about to leave, the hotel doors swung open.

A young man walked in, carefully supporting a middle-aged woman carrying a wooden shoulder pole with baskets hanging from both ends.

He spoke gently to her, his tone full of concern. "Mom, take it slow. Watch your step."

The woman wasn't that old, but years of hard labor had aged her beyond her years. Her skin was darkened from the sun, her face lined with deep creases from a life of struggle. The baskets she carried contained a bundle of blankets and some farm produce.

Stepping into the lavishly decorated restaurant, the woman immediately grew uneasy.

"Sam, this place looks expensive," she whispered nervously. "We can't waste money like this. Let's leave before we dirty their fancy carpets. I can just have a couple of scones."

Samuel gently held her back and reassured her, "Mom, don't worry. The owner here is my friend. I get to eat here for really cheap."

Jack squinted at the guy and suddenly recognized him. It was Samuel.

Surprised, Jack called out, "Samuel? What are you doing here?"

Samuel's head snapped up, and when he saw Jack, his face lit up with excitement.

"Jack! You're here too? I'm just bringing my mom out for a nice meal. After that, I was planning to head to the dorm to find you!"

Upon hearing this, Samuel's mother, Meredith Zeller, glanced at Jack and asked him, "Sam, is this your classmate?"

Samuel nodded eagerly, his eyes shining. "Mom, this is Jack, the friend I always talk about. He's the one who helped us when Dad was in the hospital. He lent me all the money we needed."