chapter291

Are you all here for the top scorer in the finals?" Cameron asked, his voice carrying easily through the morning air.

Lucinda stood straight and elegant, her smile calm and flawless. She rested her hand lightly on Kylie's arm, ready for what she was sure would be the most dazzling moment of her life.

The dean from Oakwood College stepped forward, eager and a little breathless. "Mr. Norwood, yes, we're all here for the top scorer in the exams."

Cameron gave Lucinda a gentle nudge forward. "Then you must be looking for her. My youngest daughter, Lucinda."

Lucinda instinctively lifted her chin, pride shining in her eyes. She glanced over the crowd, waiting for the flood of praise and the rush for her attention.

But the room didn't erupt with excitement like she'd imagined. Instead, a stunned silence settled over everyone.

People exchanged confused looks.

Lucinda? That wasn't the name they were expecting for the perfect score student.

"Mr. Norwood, if I may ask," the Oakwood representative said carefully, "how many points did Miss Norwood score?"

Cameron's smile grew. "She got 735."

Lucinda straightened even more, holding herself like a princess about to receive her

crown.

The Oakwood representative looked truly impressed. "Mr. Norwood, you and Mrs. Norwood are outstanding examples in the world of education. Five children, all with top results in their finals. We really admire you."

The Capital College recruiter jumped in right away. "I completely agree. You and your wife are education legends. Five children, all in college. You're the gold standard for every parent."

Lucinda's heart swelled with pride. She felt unstoppable, like she was glowing from the inside out.

"Thank you all for your praise, she replied, her tone proud but gracious. "There's still a long way to go, and I have a lot left to learn."

She was sure of it. Her future would be so much brighter than Lydia's.

Whenever their children came up, Cameron and Kylie both felt a quiet happiness. It wasn't just about how they raised them. Their children were talented and driven in their own right.

Just look at Lydia. Even though she'd been away for eighteen years, she was every

bit as capable as her brothers. If that wasn't natural talent, what was?

"Thank you for your kind words," Cameron said warmly. It's a hot day. Please, come inside for some iced tea and snacks. We can sit and talk."

Lucinda smiled sweetly, her voice soft and inviting. "Yes, please come in. You all look worn out. Have something to drink and a little fruit before we talk more about school."

If everyone came inside, it would be the perfect chance for Lydia to see how a top

scorer was fought over by all the top schools.

Even though it was still morning, the

group had been running around since six. They were definitely thirsty. Still, they couldn't relax just yet. There was something they needed to be sure about. If the perfect scorer wasn't here, they had to move on to the next place until they found her.

"Mr. Norwood, pardon me," the old professor from Oakwood College asked, "does a girl named Lydia live here?"

Finding the perfect scorer was urgent. The president had made it clear. They had to bring her to their school, no matter what, and agree to anything she asked for.

Cameron and Kylie both froze.

Lucinda's heart jumped into her throat. She turned to the professor, her voice tight. "Professor, why are you looking for her?"