Professor Lane’s eyes sparkled, as if he could already see the next Eddie emerging before him.

“The lines are a bit unpolished, but with a stronger foundation, the work would really shine.”

Charlie nodded, turning to Alessia. “Professor Lane is a leading figure in the art world–if he says so, what do you think?”

“Berlington Elementary is the kind of place parents will do anything to get their kids into. There’s a reason for its reputation.”

“Alright, Professor Lane, could you let Mr. Zimmerman know to help him with the enrollment paperwork, and maybe show him around the classrooms?”

“I’ll go say

bi to my brother first.”

“Go ahead. And when you’ve got time, come by for tea–don’t wait until you need something to remember you still know a Mr. Linden.”

Charlie was clearly teasing, but Alessia took it in stride, smiling as she responded. After a few more words, she followed Professor Lane out of the room.

Charlie looked at the painting and nodded in genuine appreciation. “That girl really has an eye for talent. There may be plenty of prodigies these days, but it’s not so easy to find the real ones–and somehow, they all end up around her.”

approval, he carefully placed the painting in a cabinet

Alessia saíd, crouching down to meet Ivan’s eyes. “You’ll have to

he gripped the straps of his backpack tightly. Still, he

hand on his head. “York will

you.

to show her he

it.

his hair before turning to Mr. Zimmerman. “Thank you for your

17.55

Chapter 184

it’s my

but marvel again at how children from wealthy families carried themselves–it was a kind of confidence you didn’t see every day. If she didn’t know better, she’d have thought she was Alessia’s assistant rather than

Alessia headed back to campus. She’d planned to pick up Mae right away, but Mae said she needed to finish up a few things, so Alessia decided to wait until school let

Mr. Zimmerman to the classroom. It was just after the bell, and

Zimmerman asked. Both Ivan and York had transferred mid–year,

natural their seats

messy desk next

you to everyone. Do you think

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