Chapter 284

Lucius only later learned that Valerie and Philip, Arcton University's dean, were old acquaintances. Valerie had been the perfect scorer at last year's college entrance exams, the kind of top student every elite school wanted. Philip, leaning on his modest connection to Valerie's foster father, had nearly thrown tantrums to get her to choose Arcton University. He even promised to meet any conditions she might have. Valerie was not modest in her demands. She made one request that nearly sent Philip into a blind rage. "Give me a year off," she said, "and I will consider attending next year." Reluctant as he was, Philip swallowed his pride to keep the talent. Valerie produced enough sick leave notes to make Arcton University's administrators unable to refuse. When she dared to ask Lucius for a favor, he had no reason to say no. "Don't worry, I'll handle it." After the days he had spent dealing with Renton, the anger in Lucius' chest had cooled considerably. "Val, about that yea