Alina walked slowly around the circle, fixing any lopsided folds with a gentle tap of her finger. She couldn't help it — each time she saw a paper boat take shape in those small hands, her eyes shone brighter.
When the last little sail popped up, she clapped her hands together, the sound light and full of pride. "Look at these! Every single one of you did so well!" she said, her voice warm as sunshine. "I think you are the smartest, cleverest class I've ever seen."
At once, the tiny monsters puffed up with pride. Drake's tail wagged so hard it thumped the chair behind him. Vlad Jr. cleared his throat and crossed his arms like a little noble but the tips of his ears turned pink from the praise. Luna gave a tiny huff, her pigtails bouncing, but her eyes sparkled fiercely. Even shy Rocky hugged his boat to his chest, his stony face trying and failing to hide the tiniest shy smile.
