Gary Cooper did not stay long.
In his words, he still had to go to Trinity High School in Manhattan that afternoon to evaluate another student who had also submitted a scholarship application.
Mrs. Snow warmly escorted Gary Cooper to the door.
Hawk followed as well.
But his mind was clearly not here. It was on what Gary Cooper had just said.
"No need to thank me. It was my colleague Anna..."
Hawk recalled what Anna had said at the cemetery.
"I prepared a gift for you. I hope you'll like it."
"So..."
"This was the gift?"
Hawk thought to himself.
Soon enough.
After Mrs. Snow watched Gary Cooper head toward the parking lot, she returned to her office with a smile of delight for Hawk written all over her face. "This is wonderful, Hawk. I originally thought they'd take the information back to discuss it before making a decision. I didn't expect him to give you next September's spot right now."
Hearing Mrs. Snow's delighted tone, Hawk temporarily put Anna out of his mind and smiled at Mrs. Snow.
"I didn't expect it either."
"This is great, Hawk. You know there are several competitors for New York University's law school this year. They have so many outstanding students to choose from, which is why I told you to prepare carefully. I never expected him to make a decision on his first evaluation."
As she spoke, Mrs. Snow could not help letting out a breath of relief. Then she looked at Hawk. "But it's not time to relax yet, Hawk. Gary just said that he'll prepare the paperwork after he gets back. We can only truly relax once that invitation letter is in your hands."
Mrs. Snow said that, but she looked very relaxed.
Because it was almost impossible for