Chapter 196

For Alva and Wendy, coming from regular families, stepping onto a private jet felt like something out of a dream. If Claire hadn’t invited them, they probably would have gone their whole lives never knowing what the inside of one looked like.

Even their teacher was tempted. He hesitated, trying to be responsible. “Maybe you should go with your relatives, and we’ll just wait here. It doesn’t feel right for so many of us to tag along p>

But Claire wasn’t ready to give up. “Come on, think of it as an adventure. We’ve got a chance to get to Cabinda early and settle in. Wouldn’t you rather be there than stuck in an airport? We’d have more time to rest or even explore a bit p>

Her argument worked. The teacher glanced around at all the hopeful faces, and his resolve melted. The winter camp didn’t start until the day after tomorrow, so arriving early meant everyone could get comfortable and maybe even sightsee. This extra time was something Apex had planned for them.

“Alright, thank you, Claire,” he finally said, giving in.

It was a private jet, after all. He was nervous about accidentally breaking something expensive, but when they went over to greet everyone, the elderly man in the wheelchair was warm and welcoming. Even the serious-looking younger man

nodded politely.

Lemuel, walking onto the plane, felt a surprising sense of respect from the hosts. He couldn’t help but think that the richest people always acted the most humble and well-mannered. He was already sneaking a few photos to send his wife. This might be his one and only chance to experience something like this.

Everyone was grateful to Claire. She was beautiful, kind, and genuinely cared about her classmates and teachers. They all knew the invitation was only extended because she didn’t want to leave anyone behind.

The private jet was on another level compared to a regular plane. The younger crowd broke out a game of poker. Since most of them were math whizzes, they all tried to count cards, turning the game into a battle of wits.

Baldrick watched them play with a big smile. “Young people really do have endless energy p>

Claire joined in for a while and absolutely dominated the table. No one could tell if her talent for mental math was just that good or if she had some secret up her sleeve. After wiping the floor with them, she decided to take a break so everyone else could have a shot.

She picked up a pastry, took a bite, and wandered over to Baldrick. Knowing he had dietary restrictions, she carefully chose a few snacks he could eat. She had no clue what Dane liked so she didn’t bother

picking anything for him.

“Baldrick, when you get back this time Claire started, about to give him some advice about his health.

Baldrick cut her off. “Don’t start. Now that you’re in Cabinda, you really don’t want to come visit our place for a few days p>

Claire couldn’t help but laugh. “I’m here for winter camp, remember? I won’t have much free time p>

Unless she quit the program, which obviously wasn’t happening.

Then it hit her why hadn’t Octavia or Molly made a move yet? The winter camp was about to begin.

Would they really just let her go

doubted it Octavia was furionet

without causing trouble? She

enough to want her gone, and as for Molly, Claire still couldn’t figure out why she was hated so much. At this point, she just assumed Molly was a little unhinged.

Baldrick pushed, “How can you say you don’t have time? There’s always free time during camp. And after it ends, you’re not starting school right away p>

Claire gave in a little. “Alright, if I get a break, I’ll definitely come by.” The Green family was pretty exclusive, so she figured she’d need to check with Pandora first.

“If you get some time off, call me. I’ll come pick you up,” Dane said out of nowhere.