Chapter 417
“Ms. Slater thinks your family is struggling financially,” a classmate whispered to Elliot. “She says your parents must be worrying about money all the time and is considering sponsoring you guys p>
Elliot remained silent, a smirk playing on his lips. Sponsor them? Unnecessary!
The only one in their family who could be considered poor was their clueless mom, always fretting over the bills. As for Tarquin, being the town’s wealthiest man, financial worries were foreign to him.
The teacher continued, oblivious to the true financial standing of Elliot’s family, “You know, Ms. Slater is a big-time celebrity with loads of cash. If she really sponsors you, it’d take a huge load off your parents’ shoulders. So, make sure you leave a good impression on her when you meet, okay? It could really help lighten your folks’ burden p>
The teachers, like everyone else, were under the impression that raising kids was a financial strain for the family. In these times, where the cost of living had skyrocketed, having one kid was tough, let alone three. It’s no wonder many young couples hesitate to start a family, primarily due to economic pressures. If someone found out a family was raising three boys, they’d be lauded for their bravery.
Meanwhile, at the schoolyard, Nola was growing impatient. “When are those kids going to show up? How long do they expect me to wait?!” she snapped at her agent.
The agent, trying to maintain professionalism, whispered, “I heard they’re on their way from the restroom. Their teacher went to fetch them. Just a bit longer, please smile for the cameras. We’ve got a lot of press today p>
The agent had invited the media to showcase Nola’s charitable side.
Nola gritted her teeth in annoyance, “Those little pests. They might as well drown in a cesspool for all I care p>
Minutes later, Elliot, Evan, and Emmett arrived, masks on, accompanied by their teacher who introduced them to Nola.
Elliot, holding Evan’s and Emmett’s hands, greeted Nola with a polite, “Hello,” his grip a silent reassurance to his brothers.
Nola was taken aback. Despite the masks, she recognized them, especially Evan. She remembered the insolent boy who had insulted her at the train station and the one who had accidentally broken her wrist in a scuffle.
“It’s you?!” she exclaimed, glaring.
Evan raised an eyebrow, a challenge in his gaze.
Her agent nudged her, a silent reminder to watch her image. He then turned the awkward moment around, “Hey kids, don’t you think Nola looks pretty p>
Evan was quick to respond, “She doesn’t look pretty. Kinda funny, actually p>
In this small town where community and appearances mattered, the clash between a celebrity’s facade and the candid honesty of children was about to unfold in the most unexpected ways.