Chapter 186
Miss Sinclair, the young and vivacious French teacher at Parkside High School, was under thirty and a graduate of the prestigious University of Chicago’s Department of Romance Languages and Literatures. Her command of French grammar was renowned, and her teaching ratings were the envy of the entire language department.
She studied Mirabella, and her usual sharp edge softened somewhat. “Mirabella, there’s no need to be so tense,” she began, her tone more cordial than usual. “I’ve called you to my office to discuss something important with you.”
Mirabella blinked, quickly defending herself with earnest sincerity. “I’m not nervous, Miss Sinclair.”
Her teacher couldn’t help but chuckle at the response, clearing her throat before continuing. “Well, the thing is, the State Department of Education is organizing a French–speaking competition. Each high school can nominate five students, and given your stellar performance in French, you’re a natural choice to-”
As soon as Mirabella heard the word ‘competition,‘ she felt the all–too–familiar shiver of dread. She didn’t wait for Miss Sinclair to finish, interrupting, “I appreciate that, Miss Sinclair. My French may look good on paper, but my spoken skills are a different story.”
The very thought of another competition so soon after the BrainSpark Nationals debacle was too much for Mirabella. Moreover, without any prize money on the line, her interest was less than zero.
Miss Sinclair was taken aback. “Really? I would’ve thought your spoken French was quite proficient. This morning, Mr. Hammond specifically asked me to put your name forward. But I thought it best to get your opinion first.”
Mirabella’s lips twitched in frustration–was she being set up by Mr. Hammond again? Taking a deep breath, she managed a tight–lipped smile. “Miss Sinclair, there might be some misunderstanding about my speaking abilities. Good grades don’t necessarily translate to good conversational skills. And as a specialist, you must know that these aren’t one and the
same.”
Miss Sinclair nodded in agreement. “You have a point.”
“So, let’s give this opportunity to someone else. I’d hate to embarrass Parkside High and give Mr. Hammond a reason to expel me.” Mirabella said with earnest gravity.
As she approached the office door, she nearly bumped into Mr. Hammond, who was about to step inside. He had overheard the tail end of her comment. That was downright impertinent–was he seen as someone who jumped to conclusions without reason?
Noticing Mr. Hammond at the door, Miss Sinclair’s demeanor instantly shifted to one of respect. “Mr. Hammond, hello.”
With her back to the door, Mirabella quickly straightened up and turned around, greeting him
Chapter 186
with a nod and a confident voice. “Good afternoon, Mr. Hammond.”
Despite being caught red–handed for the earlier quip, Mirabella showed no sign of discomfort.
Mr. Hammond gave Mirabella a long look before stepping into the room. “Why aren’t you interested in the competition?” He
missed the earlier part of the conversation between Mirabella and Miss Sinclair.
Scratching her head nonchalantly, Mirabella replied, “My spoken French isn’t up to par.”
“Not even for a scholarship of a hundred thousand dollars?” Mr. Hammond raised an eyebrow.
Mirabella was stunned. That was a tempting offer.
Clearing her throat, she turned back to Miss Sinclair, “Actually, I think my speaking skills are pretty decent. Maybe… I should sign up.”
Miss Sinclair was at a loss for words. Mirabella’s story had changed rather quickly.
“That settles it then,” declared Mr. Hammond, not bothering to look at the stunned French. teacher. His attention was focused on Mirabella. “Come with me to my office.” With that, he turned and walked out.
Mirabella nodded politely to Miss Sinclair and followed behind Mr. Hammond.
It took a moment for Miss Sinclair to collect herself before she finally exhaled deeply. She had never seen such a genial principal, nor had she ever encountered a student who could remain so composed in the face of authority.
That was impressive!
