Arielle nodded politely at Everett. “Hello, I am Arielle and I'm looking forward to playing against you.
However, Arielle was surprised when Everett only responded with an arrogant nod. After that, he took his leave from Vinson and headed toward his chess table.
Arielle had just been disrespected by her student's student.
This feels... weird.
“Don't take it personally.” Worried that she was offended, Vinson explained, “Mr. Eakins is a chess fanatic and only respects those who are good at it. If not for the fact that I'm a chess player, he wouldn't be talking to me too, not to mention you.”
Arielle's mind was put at ease having heard Vinson's reassurances.
Nodding, she replied with a smile, “I'm fine. It's now rare to find someone who only admires ability and doesn't fear the powerful.”
“As long as you're not upset by it. It was inappropriate of me to have introduced you to him.”
Arielle waved her hand casually to show that she was fine.
“By the way,” Vinson continued, “you will be facing Kelsea later, Carter's cousin. She is also one of Mr. Jewell's students who lost to Mr. Eakins last year. If you find her to be a challenging opponent, there's no shame in losing to her.”
Looking displeased, Arielle asked, “Are you
expecting me to lose to her?”
Usually, she didn't care about what others thought. However, when Vinson made that comment, she somehow felt unsettled by it.
Vinson shook his head in response. “I'm not saying that. I just want to tell you that it's okay to lose. To me, you are more amazing than anyone else. Whether you win or lose, it doesn't change my opinion.”
Arielle's heart warmed in response. Biting her lip, she replied, “Don't worry, as your plus one, I won't let you down.”
Vinson gazed deeply into her eyes and grunted in acknowledgment.
Soon, the finals began.
Arielle and Kelsea were seated opposite each
other.
This time, she was black while Kelsea was white. Based on the rules, Kelsea would make the first move.
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