Eli nods, not quite meeting Mr. Garcia’s gaze, but Mr. Garcia doesn’t look put off in the slightest. He doesn’t try to touch himor invade his personal space in any way. Just gets back up with the same benevolent smile and says, “You’re right on time forour mid-morning snack.”
We’re shown into a big, bright room. I leave Eli to the care of a Ms. Lawrence and the attention of eleven curious pairs of eyes.
“I’ll be right back, okay?” I tell him.
Then I follow Mr. Garcia into his office. Again, I’m amazed at how well the walls are holding up.
“Water would be great, thanks.”
He gives me a glass with cucumber in it. I almost want to cry—everything here is so damn nice. Is this what it’s like to be rich?
Mr. Garcia gives me the gist of the school: stimulating activities, Montesso
