The classroom smelled like crayons and expensive hand sanitizer.
Twenty children sat on a colorful rug. They were the heirs to oil tycoons, diplomats, and tech billionaires. They were wearing tiny blazers that cost more than most people's rent.
Ms. Applegate, a young teacher with a very tired smile, clapped her hands.
"Class, attention please! We have a new friend joining us today."
She gestured to the door.
Sacha walked in.
He wasn't holding his mother's hand. He walked in with his hands in his pockets, his backpack slung over one shoulder, and his chin held high. He surveyed the room like he was inspecting a movie set that was under budget.
"This is Sacha," Ms. Applegate chirped. "Sacha, would you like to tell us what your favorite color is?"
Sacha looked at the teacher. Then he looked at the class.
"My favorite color is 'Box Office Gold'," Sacha said seriously. "But I also like blue."
The other kids stared at him. A girl in the front row with pigtails blinked.
