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Graduation Party
The Graduation Party
Jim’s small graduation party started off well. As well as it could go at least.
“How’s that cigar, son?”
“It’s good. Can’t believe I finally graduated.”
“You did, and now you’re going to New York thanks to my friend Dave. What would we have done without him? How great is it that he got you into his fancy Investment firm in Wall Street?”
“About that, dad, I wanted to tell you…”
“Don’t even say it son, I know how thankful you are.”
“But dad, I don’t want to go to…”
“Dave! My son here wants to thank you for the opportunity you are giving him.”
Mr. Dave approached Jim and his father with a big smile.
“Congratulations on your title, Jim.” Mr. Dave said.
“Thank you, Mr. Dave.”
“Ready for New York? You will love the job.”
“Actually, I don’t think…” Jim was quickly interrupted by Mr. Dave’s shouting.
“Rose! Thank god you are here!” “Jim, have you met my daughter, Rose? Rose this is Jim.” Mr. Dave said as he introduced the two young adults to each other.
Of course Jim knew Rose. Everyone knew Rose in the small town of Newton. She was the daughter of one of the most successful businessman in the state, besides being absolutely beautiful. Jim remembered her being one year below him in high school. Back in those days, Rose was one of the most popular girls, and Jim realized she had only gotten prettier.
“I think I remember you from high school, varsity soccer, right?” Rose asked Jim.
“Yes, I remember you too. You were a cheerleader.” Jim nervously responded.
“So how have things been for you after high school?” Rose asked.
“As you can see, I just graduated. Business in Boston College. What about you?” Jim asked.
“That’s amazing! I am currently in med school in Harvard.” Rose said.
“Wow. Harvard.”
“It has always been my dream. I think that’s the most important thing in life, to follow your dreams.” Rose said. “So what’s next for you? What are you doing now?”
“Actually, I will work for your dad in New York. That’s what’s next for me.” Jim answered.
“Are you excited?”
“Not at all. I don’t want to go to New York. I don’t want to be an investment agent. I don’t want any of it.”
“So tell them.” Rose suggested.
“I tried to, I can’t”
“Yes you can.” “Dad! Come here, there’s something Jim wants to tell you!” Rose shouted.
Mr. Dave quickly started walking towards Jim and Rose, followed by Jim’s father who could not understand the situation.
“What are you doing?!” Jim angrily whispered to Rose.
“Saving you.”
“What’s up, Jim? Is there something you need to tell me? Mr. Dave asked.
“Yes Jim, what’s wrong?” Jim’s father quickly added.
Jim took a deep breath as little drops of sweat started falling besides his ears.
“I will not work for you, Mr. Dave. I’m sorry to reject your offer, but that was never what I wanted to do. I will not go to New York. I will not become an investment agent.” Jim quickly said.
“Are you alright son?” Jim’s father responded. “This must be a confusion. I am very sorry Dave, don’t listen to him.”
“This is no confusion. I never wanted any of that. That’s what you wanted father. I will become an actor, that has always been my dream. That’s what’s going to happen. I’m sorry for everything Mr. Dave, but I will not take the job, I can’t take it.” Jim said as he quickly went off.
Jim left Mr. Dave, his father and Rose in silence for a minute. No one said a thing. In an attempt to break the silence, Mr. Dave desperately said, “Let’s go for a drink.”
