Chapter 159: Sudden Change
Hayley’s POV:
Henry cleared his throat, looking a bit embarrassed.
“You don’t have to say it if you don’t want to. I don’t have time to waste on pointless chatter,” I said bluntly, not sparing him a shred of dignity.
Henry panicked. “No, Boss! I have something important to say!”
I glanced up at him. Henry seemed to summon all his courage before asking, “Boss, how can I improve my grades?”
Instinctively, I reached out and touched his forehead. “You don’t have a fever. Why are you acting so strange today?”
Henry’s face turned awkward, but he pressed on. “Your grades are amazing. You must have some good study techniques. Would you mind teaching me?”
I put down my textbook, surprised by his sudden change of attitude.
“Why the sudden interest in studying? As the younger brother of the Alpha of the Midnight Pack, you’re practically destined for success without lifting a finger. Why make life hard for yourself? Weren’t you doing just fine before?”
Henry’s expression grew serious. “That’s what I used to think, too. Our family leads the Midnight Pack, and our strength is unparalleled. I figured I could slack off without worrying about my future.”
“But ever since the Southwell Group’s incident, I’ve realized everyone else in the family has been able to step up and help. I’m the only one who’s completely useless.”
“As a Beta werewolf, my combat abilities are barely on par with some of the higher-ranked warriors. How am I supposed to protect the Midnight Pack in the future?”
“That’s why I want to learn as much as I can and become useful.”
He sounded sincere. I paused, giving Henry a long, thoughtful look before asking, “How have your grades been so far?”
At the mention of this, Henry instantly became flustered.
“Well, since I started school, I’ve never really paid attention in class. During exams, I just scribble down whatever I can, but I spend most of the time sleeping. So, my grades are terrible.”
“It’s fine,” I said, keeping my tone neutral. “But tell me, what’s your goal? How much do you want to improve?”
Henry fidgeted awkwardly. “I want to improve enough to apply to an Ivy League school.”
I hesitated. “That’s a pretty tall order, considering your current performance.”
“I came to you!” Henry looked at me expectantly. “You’re a genius, aren’t you?”
I shrugged. “And how does that concern you?”
Henry leaned in eagerly. “Benjamin always says the company you keep matters. For example, if you work with someone who earns ten million dollars a year, you’ll likely earn at least a million. If you’re with someone who makes a million, you can probably make a hundred thousand. Using that logic, if I get guidance from a genius like you, learning should be a breeze!”
I finally understood what he was getting at. “So, you’re asking me to tutor you?”
Henry nodded enthusiastically, practically fawning. “You’re my Boss! I’m your loyal sidekick—it’s only natural for you to guide me.”
I declined immediately. “I don’t think I can…”
Henry grew anxious. “Boss, what do you mean? Are you worried I won’t listen?”
“Don’t worry! As long as you’re willing to help me, I’ll do whatever you say!”
“Maybe I can even teach you some werewolf combat techniques.”
“Sure, my grades aren’t great, but as a Beta werewolf, my fighting skills are better than yours as an Omega.”
I couldn’t help but laugh at that. An Alpha like me needing combat lessons from a Beta? Of course, he had no idea about my true identity, so I kept quiet.
Henry’s determination was admirable, though. Maybe tutoring him wouldn’t be such a bad idea after all.
After thinking it over, I asked, “Are you serious about this?”
Henry nodded without hesitation. “Absolutely!”
I maintained a stern tone. “Alright, I’ll help you study—but on one condition.”