At dinner that night, Mrs. Blackwell recounted the school visit in a boastful tone, emphasizing how the principal had made a special point to meet
them and had praised Lily.
“Our Lily is just so exceptional. Mia really rode her coattails on this one. It wouldn’t have gone nearly so smoothly otherwise.”
Mr. Blackwell nodded in satisfaction. “Indeed. The school didn’t even ask for any special contributions. I imagine that’s because Lily is already a student there. Speaking of, Northwood has an early admission spot for an Ivy League school every year. The applications should be starting soon, right?”
Lily answered demurely, “I’ve already applied. The results aren’t out yet.”
The smile never left Mrs. Blackwell’s face as she showered Lily with praise, certain she would get the spot. They spoke as if the early admission
was already in Lily’s pocket.
Ryan, who had been silent, suddenly spoke up. “Getting that spot at Northwood isn’t easy. Lily’s grades are still a little short, aren’t they?”
Mrs. Blackwell’s face feli. “What do you mean, short? Principal Albright himself was singing her praises.”
I chewed on my chopstick and looked up at Lily. “So, Old Man Al… Principal Albright… let me in because of you?”
Lily’s eyes flickered. She maintained a graceful, elegant smile. “It was mostly because of the Blackwell name. You are a Blackwell daughter, after
all, sister.”
Mrs. Blackwell frowned at me. “But Lily still smoothed the way! With her at Northwood, it was easier for them to accept you.uld at least
thank her instead of speaking to her like that!”
Seeing her mother get angry, Lily took her hand and soothed her gently. “It’s alright, Mom. Sister has never been to school, so she probably doesn’t
understand how hard it is to get into Northwood.”
The food in my bowl suddenly lost all its flavor.
I found myself missing the Miller house. Even the squealing of the pigs in the backyard was more pleasant than this.
