Chapter 50

Celeste looked a bit surprised. "Are you sure you don't want to continue your studies?" Natalie nodded. A trace of relief crossed Celeste's face. She took a deep breath before saying seriously, "Actually, Gideon has a spot available at Commonwealth College for further education, but there's only one. We've been worried about how to distribute this opportunity, which is why we wanted to hear your thoughts." As she said this, Celeste looked over at Natalie and Phoebe, waiting for them to respond on their own. Before Phoebe could speak up, Natalie jumped in and said, "Mrs. Locke, please let Phoebe have the spot. I would like to start working sooner." This time, Phoebe sat there quietly, not arguing with Natalie for once. Celeste felt a weight lift off her shoulders. Someone volunteering to step back was far better than if both of them had been competing for the spot. Smiling warmly, Celeste turned to Natalie. "That works well then. Just now, Fifi mentioned she wanted to continue