Chapter 17 The Interview
When Hera woke up the next day, she found Athena already seated in the living room, brimming with excitement as if she were about to unwrap Christmas presents.
She engaged in a spirited conversation with Old Master Avery, recounting Hera’s experiences that she had kept from him, fearing it might cause him heartache.
Sure enough, the old master’s face was creased with frowns as Athena recounted Hera’s experiences of injustice at the hands of her classmates over the years, all because she pretended to be poor. His indignation was palpable.
Yet, amidst his concern, he felt gratitude that Hera had found a loyal friend like Athena, who stood by her through both hardship and happiness.
On the other hand, Athena was chattering non-stop, as if recounting her own tales of injustice. She was so energetic, it was as if she had caffeine coursing through her veins. So engrossed was she in her storytelling that she didn’t even notice Hera standing just a step behind her with folded arms.
Old Master Avery watched with interest and amusement until Hera gently knocked on Athena’s head, prompting her to realize that Hera was awake.
Athena rubbed her head slightly and flashed Hera a cute smile as if nothing had happened. "Good morning, babe!"
Hera raised an eyebrow and teasingly remarked, "You’re quite the tattletale, Athena."
Realizing she couldn’t escape Hera’s playful teasing, Athena turned to Old Master Avery with an exaggeratedly aggrieved expression. "Grandpa Avery, just look at your granddaughter. All she does is bully me and intimidate me," she complained melodramatically.
The Old Master chuckled in delight at the sight of their close relationship. "Now that my little princess is awake, why don’t we all have breakfast together? Join us, Athena," he suggested warmly.
Athena flashed her bright smile, revealing her white teeth. "Okay!" she chirped, then leaned into Hera’s side as if to appease her.