The Double or more Life of the Fake Heiress (Mirabella) novel Chapter 186

Miss Sinclair, the young and vivacious French teacher at Parkside High School, was under thirty and a graduate of the prestigious University of Chicago's Department of Romance Languages and Literatures. Her command of French grammar was renowned, and her teaching ratings were the envy of the entire language department.

She studied Mirabella, and her usual sharp edge softened somewhat. "Mirabella, there's no need to be so tense," she began, her tone more cordial than usual. "I've called you to my office to discuss something important with you."

Mirabella blinked, quickly defending herself with earnest sincerity, "I'm not nervous, Miss Sinclair."

Her teacher couldn't help but chuckle at the response, clearing her throat before continuing, "Well, the thing is, the State Department of Education is organizing a French-speaking competition. Each high school can nominate five students, and given your stellar performance in French, you're a natural choice to—"

As soon as Mirabella heard the word 'competition,' she felt the all-too-familiar shiver of dread. She didn't wait for Miss Sinclair to finish, interrupting, "I appreciate that, Miss Sinclair. My French may look good on paper, but my spoken skills are a different story."

The very thought of another competition so soon after the BrainSpark Nationals debacle was too much for Mirabella. Moreover, without any prize money on the line, her interest was less than zero.

Miss Sinclair was taken aback. "Really? I would've thought your spoken French was quite proficient. This morning, Mr. Hammond specifically asked me to put your name forward. But I thought it best to get your opinion first."

Mirabella's lips twitched in frustration—was she being set up by Mr. Hammond again? Taking a deep breath, she managed a tight-lipped smile. "Miss Sinclair, there might be some misunderstanding about my speaking abilities. Good grades don't necessarily translate to good conversational skills. And as a specialist, you must know that these aren't one and the same."

Miss Sinclair nodded in agreement. "You have a point."

"So, let's give this opportunity to someone else. I'd hate to embarrass Parkside High and give Mr. Hammond a reason to expel me," Mirabella said with earnest gravity.

As she approached the office door, she nearly bumped into Mr. Hammond, who was about to step inside. He had overheard the tail end of her comment. That was downright impertinent—was he seen as someone who jumped to conclusions without reason?

Noticing Mr. Hammond at the door, Miss Sinclair's demeanor instantly shifted to one of respect. "Mr. Hammond, hello."