“No.” Her voice hardened. “I've done enough harm already. It's too dangerous for you-”
“But you never have any issues-” He was leaning forward now determinedly, hands on his knees. “I know how often you help Mr. Carroll, and nothing ever happens. Ever. We can keep it a secret too, just the three of us, and if anyone figures out, I'll just say it's my idea-”
“Rainer. No.”
“How can we just ignore what's going on? I can do something about it-”
“Rainer.” But this time, her voice was softer, and she reached over to give him a hug that he, still frustrated, unwillingly received. “You care so much, but you can't help here. You've got to let it go and let us take care of things. We'll figure it out... Somehow.”
But her last word held too much worry for Rainer to be reassured. He 'd be more careful, but he couldn't just wish that the teachers would make everything better. The illness had been around for so long, and still Mr. Carroll was baffled by it...
“Promise me you'll stop.” Mrs. Thomas had drawn back and was staring intently at him.
“Are you sure?”
“Rainer.” Her hands tightened on his shoulders. “You've got to promise me this.”
He swallowed, but nodded. She dropped her hands back to her lap, her face slowly composing itself again.
“Thank you.” She rose from her chair, and Rainer followed suit. “Good luck with Selection tomorrow. I hope things go well for you.”
Rainer nodded, and made to leave the room.
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