"As for Richie's shortcomings! I suppose he seems uninterested in just about everything. He lacks the curiosity to explore that my younger daughter Anya has. Instead, he has a maturity that doesn't belong in a child his age.
Perhaps that's because my eldest son Richie is so gifted at everything he does that nothing presents much of a challenge, leaving him with little desire to explore the world.
His shortcoming is probably that he's too mature. Sometimes I hardly feel like he's a six-year-old child. He even handles problems like an adult at times. That's also a failing on my part. I haven't given him enough attention, and he's had to grow up too soon.
But that isn't necessarily a bad thing. His maturity at such a young age puts my mind at ease. Still, I need to reflect on myself and give Richie more love and care."
The affection in Twilight's eyes was almost overflowing. He truly liked Richie, and his heart genuinely ached for this child who had been uprooted again and again, forced to grow up far too young.
Twilight wanted to create a world where no one had to cry. He wanted to give this child a home.
That fat bastard Swan had nothing to say in response. Henry continued with his questions. "Madam, please tell us about your approach to raising children."
Yor felt a little uneasy. With both hands on her knees, gently pressing down on her pink skirt, she kept reassuring herself: Just do what we practiced. Don't be nervous. Be natural and composed.
"As you all know, I am not this child's birth mother. At first, I wanted to win his affection, so I couldn't help spoiling him and letting him have his way.
But for the sake of his future, I've now adjusted my attitude. When I need to be strict, I will be."
"Your husband just mentioned that your son is somewhat mature and lacks the curiosity to explore the world. How do you usually interact with him?" Henry's gaze was sharp, but his tone remained calm.
This question hadn't come up during Yor's rehearsals. The unexpected new question caught her off guard.
"Ah-huh... um... well, let me see!
Usually, I hold Richie's hand and try my best to make him happy. I take him to experience new things as much as possible to spark his curiosity about the world... yes, that's about it!"
Honorary headmaster Madehua nodded in approval. Yor breathed a sigh of relief. Thankfully, Swan hadn't made an unreasonable fuss like he had during Anya's interview.
"Then let us ask the child a few questions next!" Honorary headmaster Madehua announced.
The hostilities began to subside.
"First, can you tell us your name and address?" Headmaster Madehua looked kindly, his expression serious without losing its warmth.
Richie sat ramrod straight, yet there was a lazy air about him that seemed ingrained in his very bones. He appeared attentive, but his reply was casual.
"Richie Forger. My home address is 128 Park Road, West Berlint!"
"What do you usually do on your days off?" Madehua asked again.
"I go to the opera, look at works of art, learn calligraphy, play the piano, and take singing lessons. When I have time, I sculpt and sketch. Sometimes, when I'm really bored, I read books."
Richie recalled the endless extracurricular classes and homework that filled his weekends in real life, sounding rather unhappy.
Twilight beamed. Wonderful. These are all questions we expected, and Richie's answers are excellent. He really doesn't need me to worry about him.
"If you enroll at our school, what would you like to do?" Madehua asked next.
At that moment, Richie's eyes met Madehua's.
Looking at Madehua, Richie put on a solemn air and said, "If I get into Eden Academy, I will..."
Before you continue