Chapter 157

But seeing the students' bright, happy faces made him feel like it was the most meaningful job in the world.

In the principal's office at Pinecrest High, the principal's eye twitched as he reviewed Aaron's file. This was the troublemaker from Westside High who had knocked out the principal's teeth. Although everyone in Northpine's education circle now knew that the other principal had been arrested, Aaron's academic record was still a major problem.

He had eagerly agreed when he heard Theobald was donating a new building, but now he was having second thoughts.

"With these grades, Pinecrest High..."

Aaron, his eyes dark under his long bangs, stepped forward. "Principal, I can catch up. I'll work hard!"

Marguerite was pleased to see Aaron standing up for himself. She smiled. "Principal, I'll supervise my brother's studies."

The principal glanced at Marguerite, and his eye twitched even more violently. Theobald had just explained her situation. She may have been the academic champion back in her day, but after being in a coma for eleven years, could she even remember high school material?

But he had already accepted Theobald's donation. The money had already been transferred.

In a bind, he said, "Marguerite, you attended our school. You know how much we value our college admission rates. Both of your situations are... highly unusual."

Aaron, not wanting to let Marguerite's efforts go to waste, clenched his fists. "Principal, if I'm ranked last in the school after next month's exams, I'll withdraw myself!"

The principal looked at Marguerite.

Marguerite blinked. "I was the academic champion, after all. If I'm second to last, I'll withdraw, too."

The principal was speechless. The former champion's goal was now to avoid being second to last. His fears were confirmed; she had probably forgotten everything.

Helpless, he sighed. "Alright, then. You can start next Monday."

Leaving Pinecrest High, Marguerite crunched on an apple from Mr. Frank. "Aaron, I just checked. The student who ranked last in Pinecrest's last monthly exam scored over four hundred."

She hadn't expected the kid to be so ambitious.

Aaron looked down. "Maggie, this is the path I've chosen. I'll see it through, even if I have to crawl."

Marguerite smiled. "Lay off the inspirational quotes. Just have Northpine Wraith hire you a few good tutors."

Theobald, one hand on the steering wheel, glanced over. "What do you want for dinner tonight, Maggie?"

Aaron leaned forward from the back seat. "Let's buy some groceries and cook at Mr. Spencer's place. I can make him some fish soup Its good for his wound."

Marguerite was surprised. "You can cook now?"

Aaron puffed out his chest. "Yes, and I'm very good at it!"

Theobald frowned. "I can cook, too." It had been a while, but still.

Marguerite thought it was a great idea and sent George a message.

[Aaron and I are coming over to make soup for you tonight, to help with your recovery. Is that okay?]

There was no immediate reply. Marguerite figured he was busy with work. She had seen Kim go in this morning.

After a trip to the supermarket, they

returned to the villa. When they

arrived at the gate, Marguerite saw

that George still hadn't replied to her essage

It wasn't even eight o'clock yet. Marguerite knocked on the door.

The butler answered, his face a

mask of panic and grief. "Ms. Lopez, you're finally back! Sir has a high

feverand won't wake up! He

dying!"