Oliver shifted uncomfortably. I mean work here. With you. He chewed his lip with apprehension. Admitting this felt very forward and it was taking all the guts he could muster. He hurried forward, closing the gap between them. Im good with inventions and I could really help. I know I could.

One of Armandos eyebrows rose. You mean stay long term? But what about your own life, Oliver?

My own life is horrible, Oliver said without missing a beat. My brother is a bully. I sleep in an alcove. I feel like… like this is where Im supposed to be. Does that make sense?

Armando smiled gently. He seemed hesitant. Im too old to care for you...

Youve already cared for me more than my mom and dad do, Oliver said, accepting that hed have to be even more independent and self-reliant if he stayed here than he was at home.

And youre supposed to go to school…

I already know everything theyre teaching me! Im the smartest kid there. Besides, I could learn from you. You could mentor me, and teach me how to make your machines. I could be your apprentice.

Armando seemed anguished, Oliver thought, like he was grappling with a dilemma. He didnt want to be an imposition and overstep the boundary, but this was the first time in his life things had felt close to being right. He couldnt walk away now and leave all this behind.

Ill do anything, Oliver begged him. Please. Let me prove myself to you at least. Show you what I can do.

Armando paused. A long silence passed before he spoke again.

I suppose it wouldnt hurt to see what youre made of, he said finally.

Oliver raised his eyebrows. It wasnt a yes, but it wasnt a no either. Really? Youll let me work on something? Show you what I can do?

I will, Armando replied, his expression unreadable. But first you must do one thing.

Of course, Oliver said. Anything.

Armando smirked with good nature. Please put on some actual clothes.

Oliver looked down at his pajamas and blushed.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Olivers mind spun as he hurriedly showered. Armando hadnt said he could stay or be an apprentice, but he was giving him some kind of opportunity and that kept the flame of hope burning inside of him. He couldnt help but feel like he was going to be put to some kind of test. Not that Armando had said as such; in fact, hed not said much about it at all. But Oliver was desperate to prove himself and show Armando that he belonged here.