I needed to know I was progressing. I needed to know I was making a difference.
Aurelius turned away from the TV and looked at me. The sponge screeched but didn't draw Aurelius' attention. "You have a long way to go to be the best in the world, Cassandra. First, you have to be best in your class. Then be the best Freshman. The next step is to be the best at the Enchanted Academy." He shook his head. "Do I think you have the possibility? Absolutely." He turned back to the singing sponge. "Do I think you will ever be the best? Probably." He pointed at the TV. "I can sing better than that."
"Thank you, Aurelius. Thank you for believing in me." I nodded at the TV. "But I don't think you can sing at all."
Aurelius smiled. "Train hard, Cassandra," he said. "Beat the best to be the best."