Lessons in Sin

by Pam Godwin

His face showed no emotion. A face his god had gone to great effort designing and sculpting. “You’re free to go for the day.” “Oh.” I glanced at the door. “No punishments. No opossums. What ever shall I do?” He tilted his head, studying me, his gaze enigmatic. “What?” I returned stare for stare. “Have you given any thought to applying for colleges?” “Yes. No.” “Explain.” “I’ve given a lot of thought to what I want to do, and it doesn’t require a college education.” “I’m listening.” “I want to run an animal rescue.” My stomach tightened as I braced for a negative reaction. He pushed his lips out, thinking. Then he nodded. “I can see that.” “Really?” “Yes, but I suggest you earn a degree in business so you can operate it efficiently.” “I would hire someone to do that.” “Okay. What about the actual care of the animals? The health care and maintenance?” “I would hire people for that, too.” “Then what would you do?” “I would play with the animals, of course.” “Of course.” He narrowed his eyes, judging. He thought I was spoiled and entitled, and he would be right. “Annnd…” I jogged my shoulders playfully, grinning. “I would fund it.” “With your trust fund?” “Yes, that. And with my amazing passion. A project, business, charity, movie, piece of art—none of that takes shape unless it’s backed by someone who’s deeply passionate about it. It’s that investment of passion that drives the success of any business. Am I right?” “Yes.” A smile pulled at his mouth and lit up his stunning ey...