“Of course,” Mr. Croaksworth said with dawning recognition. “Beatrice Steele. How could I forget? Daniel spoke of you often at school—the girl who once read a thousand-page novel in one sitting!” Beatrice flushed, pleased. “An exaggeration.” “She is being modest,” Daniel said with a smile. “Indeed. It was two sittings,” Beatrice replied. She could practically feel her mother tensing up beside her, so she rushed to add, “Of course, when selecting my reading material, I stick to the stories suitable for ladies.” “How lovely. What are your favorites?” Mr. Croaksworth asked, and Beatrice cleared
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