“Mia, this is such an amazing piece!” Thea beamed at her friend and said, “Thank you for bringing this to me. But why didn’t you go to school today? I had the impression that the summer break was finished.”

Mia gave me a reassuring grin and said, “Don’t be concerned about school. This afternoon, I only have a few classes scheduled for myself. By the way, would you be interested in having Japanese cuisine with me later tonight? I shall be there to pick you up at the appointed ...