" Miss Abernathy," Aldo begins staring at me from across his desk. His features seem harder than I remember last I was in the same polished office. I notice he is not wearing his glasses. His hands are gripping the armrest with an iron grip. He seems displeased. I must've said something to annoy him. Yep. That sounds like something I would do.
" If you kindly please tell me what makes you think you are worthy of attending such a prestigious institution as the science academy. A list would be appreciated," Pompous bastard. I can't take too long to think about it. I don't recall him asking me this particular question last, I was in this damn seat. And I don't have any clue what to flipping say.
" I have a unique sense of humour, " I try to lighten the mood. Aldo raised his hand to stop me from speaking.
" It would be relevant if this were to be a theatre academy. Or if you were interested in becoming a comedian. I'm afraid such quality bears very little weight, in a place such as this, Miss Abernathy," Of course it wouldn't. Who wants to laugh, right?
" My apologies, Mr Friedresken. Shall I begin anew?" I try to sound as genuine as possible. Aldo nods, wearing a grimace that says, ' I'm not looking forward to hearing the next stupid thing that comes out of your mouth. This better be good,'
I proceed forward in spite of that," I have excellent organisational skills. As you have seen from my exam results, I do not lack the capabilities to excel on an academic level. If you are questioning my morals, ethics or ethos. I would like to reassure you that I have excellent morals and ethics. I want to make the world a better place. I have every intention of proving my worthwhile I'm here. But you cannot put me on the chopping block before you have given me a chance to perform. I understand that you have the prestige of the academy resting on your shoulders, as the ones that you have selected to attend, their performance will reflect on the academy's prestige. To answer your question. I can say that I'm many things, but I will not do such a thing, because it would be a lie. But what I can say is that we have a common interest. I have an interest in succeeding in life, just as much as you have in promoting the academy to a status that many institutions such as these only dream of achieving," I didn't allow him to stop me this time around. It all came out in one breath.
I subtly take a deep breath while he stares at me with newfound admiration.
" Impressive speech. But it is not an answer to my question," Oh, for fuck sake.
" Kind, resilient," that one was a lie," Driven, autodidact, fast learner, excellent problem solver," Another lie, but since I'm already walking that line, might as well walk all the way to the end," Resourceful, out of the box thinking, innovative," I take a breath, and he nods satisfied with the answer.
" Very well, Miss Abernathy. I believe this concludes our interview. I glance at the clock. I had been in there for six hours. What the hell did we talk about for six hours?
" You'll be pleased to know that you have earned yourself a place in the academy. Do not take it for granted, Miss Abernathy. Your connection with Mr Kinnaird does not come with privileges. Quite the contrary, if I might add," There is an edge to his voice and it sounds more like a threat than a warning.
" Is that a threat?" I rise to my feet, we lock eyes and I see him trying to find an appropriate answer.
" No. Not at all. Call it an early warning," He waves a hand towards the door. It is time for me to leave.
" It has been a pleasure, Miss Abernathy," It feels like he is mocking me.
" The pleasure was all mine," I'm being sarcastic, but he smiles and nods. I have no idea if he has caught onto or not.
I make my way towards the door on surprisingly steady feet, and step outside the office. Frankie rises from behind her desk, with quirked brows.
I nod as a yes, and she smiles, " I guess once in a while a slap does work wonders," She says in mirth, and I laugh.
" I suppose you're right," I pause in front of her desk," Thank you, Frankie" She tilts her head to the side and smiles.
" No, sweetheart. I know the good ones. I know you'll do great things. I'll just settle to have contributed to the wonders you'll create," She laughs, and plops in her seat.
" Do you say that to everyone?" I have a feeling she does.
" You bet your ass I do," She laughs again and nods towards the door.
" Off you go. They came in and asked about half a dozen times, why is it taking so long," Frankie added with a sigh.
" I guess, I should get going then," I sigh and look outside.
" See you around, sweetheart," She softly says and I wave goodbye.
When I reach the car, Louis and Carter step out and look at me, as if to check that I'm still in one piece.
" We were," Louis brings his thumb and forefinger together," this close to calling Commander Addison, girl. What the hell did he have you do in there for six hours? It takes less time to build a damn rocket," Louis rambles on, and Carter laughs as we climb back into the car.
Louis puts the car in drive and I already know where we are going.
" We thought he murdered you. Honestly, " Carter chimes in as we turn around the building. And once again dread sets in. I have to lead a double life for God knows how long. And I'm not sure if I'm ready for it.