“My mother was a linguist,” Naomi replied. “She taught me Mandarin and Spanish before she passed away. I kept practicing because I love languages.”
Raymond added quietly, “She studies every night after homework. Says she wants to work in international law someday.”
Edward stared at her, disbelief flickering in his eyes. “You’re telling me a teenager just outperformed my legal department?”
Naomi smiled faintly. “I just pay attention, sir.”
That single sentence cut deeper than she intended. For the first time in years, Edward felt something rare—humility. He had judged them through the lens of status, never once expecting brilliance to stand behind a security desk.
He pulled out his phone, scrolling quickly. “Let’s test this again,” he said, showing her another document, this time in Spanish legal phrasing.
Naomi read silently for a moment, then began translating with the same accuracy. She even pointed out areas where the wording conflicted with U.S. contract law. Edward’s expression softened completely.
When she finished, he let out a long breath. “Remarkable,” he whispered, almost to himself. Then louder, “Raymond, I owe you an apology. And Naomi—how would you feel about an internship at Lancaster Holdings? You’ve earned it.”
Raymond blinked in shock. Naomi hesitated before answering. “That’s very kind, Mr. Lancaster. But I still have school to finish.”
Edward chuckled, not mockingly this time. “Then we’ll wait. Talent like yours doesn’t come often.”
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