Orson stood off to the side, waiting for Rupert to give further instructions.

Rupert didn't say a word. He reached into his coat, searching for his lighter, but after rummaging around for a while, he couldn't find it.

Without a word, Orson pulled his own lighter from his pocket and flicked it, lighting Rupert's cigarette for him.

Rupert took a deep drag, his face brooding and silent, the ember at his fingertips trembling slightly.

He stood like that for a long moment before, through the haze of smoke, he finally spoke. "Go on."

"Yes, sir."

Orson shot him a worried glance before heading off to find Chris.

But when he reached Chris's office, it was empty.

He called him, only to find out Chris was over at the outpatient building, helping out with some hospital event.

It was noisy on the other end, and Chris had to practically shout to be heard not exactly the best way to have a conversation.

"I'll come find you," Orson said, and hung up.

He stepped outside just as the sky, which had been bright and sunny that morning, erupted into a torrential downpour.

Orson frowned and was about to make a run for it when a car pulled up beside him.

"Hey, Orson!"


down just a crack, but Orson already recognized the voice- and felt his irritation

Zion.

the window further, and Orson spotted two people in the backseat. Lester

could even say hello, Sylvia suddenly let out a squeal, clutching her

how tough their admissions are? I spent ages perfecting my application and I can't believe they actually

glanced at her phone and said, "It's

realizing she might have gone overboard with her reaction. She had, after all, promised Lester she'd consider the college he was interested

just an interview.

about me," Lester replied with a gentle smile. "What matters most is your

you! I owe

Only after she said this did she

help but think

her excitement.


Sanford. Ms. Lloyd," Orson greeted them politely. "Are you two here

admitted to the hospital. He just flew back into the

Sad some

asked me to

ore of,

s

I won't keep

when he saw Sylvia grinning at her

be reminded of Rupert's solitary figure

"Ms. Lloyd, actually—"

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