I guess I never really stopped to consider Rose's opinion on all this, huh…
I'd assumed she'd be eager.
After all, she'd always held a quiet admiration—maybe even a hint of idolization—for Lavine.
At least, that's how it seemed.
But just because you respect someone doesn't mean you want to learn from them.
Not directly, anyway.
Maybe it was pride.
Maybe it was something more personal.
But whatever the reason, it was obvious—this wasn't going the way I'd hoped.
Still… knowing Rose, if they spent enough time together, she might eventually come around.
After all, it takes a genius to truly understand another genius.
Lavine leaned forward slightly, her tone growing a touch more pointed, less amused.
