She also failed her first two quizzes this term.”

“Really?”

“She needed someone to explain that struggling wasn’t evidence she couldn’t learn.”

Preston looked through the classroom window at children taking apart their models.

For years he had spoken about investment in the future without noticing the work of people who made that future possible.

Naomi had been doing it every day.

“I’m sorry I ever called this a hobby,” he said.

She studied him and then nodded.