On Monday morning, Skyler was up at dawn, slipping into the Hermes suit Aurelia had tailor-made for him, looking every bit the epitome of refined elegance. A stylist had popped by to ensure Skyler’s hair was nothing short of perfection.
Soon enough, Aurelia and Arnold arrived with the kids in tow.
Both children were in dapper little suits that would make any prep school proud, their charm show-stopping.
William gave a thumbs-up, his grin wide. "Skyler, you're looking sharp today! You'll nail that interview for sure." Kane nodded in agreement, his voice steady. "Don't sweat it. We've got your back all the way, man. You've got this." They drove to the prestigious Pinnacle Ivy League School's campus that welcomed the nation's prodigies and international young minds, tailoring education to each student's unique talents.
The campus was a sight, with greenery trees that seemed to defy the seasons.
Skyler glanced around and felt an instant connection to the place.
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The Dean of Students was there to greet them, leading Skyler to the principal's office for the big moment.
The interview process was straightforward. Skyler would talk with the principal and the Dean of Students and then have a mock lesson.
Despite his childish character, Skyler's impressive intellect and academic credentials were undeniable. You could hardly find another with so many diplomas to their name.
Sitting across from the principal, Skyler got nervous and secretly reached into his pocket for his ‘bravery lollipop,' a small talisman to steady his stammer.
His lack of teaching experience was soon overshadowed by his profound knowledge, swiftly winning over the principal and the Dean of Students.
After all, there's an unspoken understanding among geniuses that transcends the need for excessive chatter.
Even if his demeanor was somewhat unorthodox, it was hardly a concern. Genius often comes wrapped in eccentricity.
In the second half of the interview, it was time for the test lesson, and William and Kane joined the class.
Seeing them, Skyler felt relaxation wash over him. He taught like he had at the Mossy Rock Retreat, with William and Kane taking turns raising their hands to help keep the class lively.
Teaching gifted children wasn't about rigid structures but interaction, conversation, and debate.
After the half-hour lesson, the school board convened and decided they offer Skyler the job.
Skyler was over the moon. For the first time in his life, he felt validated by strangers.
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William chuckled. "Skyler, we'll have to call you Mr. Heninger in school now." Skyler beamed, his bright teeth a testament to his joy.
Aurelia and Arnold took them for a stroll around the campus, which, while not expansive, was well suited for the modestly sized body of elite students.
The student residence hall was not far from the library and was home to those from afar or abroad.
As they approached the residence hall, a girl with a ponytail, exuding an air of striking beauty, bounded towards them. "Hey, are you new here?" "Yeah, I'm William Stirling, and this is my brother, Kane Stirling," William introduced.
The girl smiled, her fluency in Veritalia impeccable. "I'm Ramona. I'm also new here. Just arrived last week. I'm from Eldoria, you know, and | speak ten languages. My folks have returned home, but that doesn't scare me. | can take care of myself just fine." Aurelia drew in a sharp breath and admired this little girl in her heart, “She’s indeed the hallmark of a prodigy, being multilingual at such a young age.” William gave her an approving thumbs-up. "Ramona, that's awesome! Guess we'll be classmates, huh?" "Yep," Ramona nodded, her smile deepening.
William gestured to Skyler. "This is Skyler Heninger. He's just got the job as the biology teacher here." Skyler quickly greeted his new student. "Hello, Ramona, I'm Skyler." Ramona eyed him curiously, a flicker of an indescribable emotion passing through her gaze.