The somber toll of the bells echoed through the Royal Academy.
Students got themselves on chairs in a hurry as the professor came in, a stack of books under one arm, and carefully adjusted his spectacles.
"I have a new student joining us today," said the professor in a calm and firm voice. He surveyed the class and, concluding, "I think most of you must have noticed this already."
With a nod, he beckoned Walter. "Go on, start."
Walter stood up, confidence intact in body language, but a slight smile graced his lips. "I am Walter Ambrose. I'm all excited to be here with you guys."
A few students murmured, and the professor began the lecture, causing students to straighten and look forward. But Walter stole one last fleeting glance at the boy next to him, who quickly met his eye but turned away again. Walter had turned back to listen to what the professor was saying, but his mind kept drifting away from the lesson.
