#Chapter 179: Practice

Hugo watches Mr. Carpenter like a hawk, so he notices the way Mr. Carpenter immediately stiffens at Edward Zimmer’s name. Good. Hugo wants to make him uncomfortable. But he also wants Mr. Carpenter to think they might be in the same boat. Zimmer likely has dirt on Carpenter. Why couldn’t he have dirt on Hugo as well? At least that’s what Hugo wants him to think. Mr. Carpenter says, albeit somewhat tightly, “Mr. Zimmer will be a good president.” “Yes,” Hugo lies. This time he wants it to be obvious. He thinks he’s successful when Carpenter looks at him curiously. Hugo pushes a bit deeper. “A man that… resourceful… should know how to handle the office.” Mr. Carpenter stills again. For a Whisperer, he’s not very good at hiding his reactions. “Don’t you think?” Hugo presses. “Yes, well…” Carpenter clears his throat. “Why don’t we go inside? You will be very impressed with the crown molding. It’s the highlight of the door, undoubtedly.” Hugo follows him inside, thinking