Chapter 23
Chapter 23
With that, everyone followed Oliver into the dining room.
Mandy had really gone all out to make the dining room look fantastic, with a huge table that could fit a king and was piled high with tasty dishes that any food lover would love.
Jacob smiled at Mandy, giving her a nod of approval, and she responded with a shy blush, their gazes briefly connecting subtle exchange
Oliver showed everyone to their seats, and Cherise sat down next to him, waiting for everyone in the family to be seated. before they all began eating together
Mandy had aimed to impress, and maybe catch Cherise off guard with her upscale menu. But Cherise handled her silverware like a pro, defying Mandy’s expectations.
Shirley, vying for attention, toyed with her salad and smiled insincerely at Jacob. “Dad, Cherise missed out on a proper education back home. The teachers didn’t support her. Could you help her get into Betrico University?
“It’d boost our family’s reputation, and I could assist her since we’d be schoolmates” Despite her innocent act, her true intentions were clear,
Jacob was touched by Shirley’s thoughtfulness, but the notion that Cherise might not meet their family’s high standards. didn’t sit well with him. He was adamant that his family must uphold a certain standard of excellence, without any Ceptions.
Mandy, noticing Jacob’s concern, said, “Cherise should have the same chances as Shirley. Education is important for her future. Since Shirley’s already in college and Cherise is a bit older, could she consider starting anew?”
She was aware it would be tough to get Cherise into Betrico University, no matter how well-connected Jacob was.
Betrico University was renowned for admitting only the most brilliant students or those with top exam scores.
Shirley had just barely gained admission through her art achievements. The prospect of Cherise, a girl from a small town joining its ranks seemed highly unlikely,
Jacob’s mood turned sour at the proposal. ‘Cherise looks nice, but her grades aren’t good enough for Betrico University. And with the dean being all about the rules, no amount of influence could sway him. No way can I pull it off, he mused to himself. With a scowl, he grabbed the red wine and downed it “No Betrico University for you. You’re not like Shirley. Time to lear and grow. Broania University is where you’re headed,” he declared, making it clear there was no arguing about it Mandy and Shirley shared a look, sure that a girl from a backwater place like Cherise had no chance of making it into Betrico University.
Unfazed by the drama, Cherise kept eating.
Oliver looked at her with a gentle smile. “Cherise, tell Grandpa which school you’re aiming for. Betrico University’s out of my reach, but any other top school here, and I’ll do my best to get you there.”
Cherise put down her fork and smiled softly at Oliver, “Grandpa my heart is set on Betrico University
Shirley laughed, like Cherise liad told the craziest joke. “Cherise you can’t be serious. Even Grandpa and Dad said it’s Impossible. Don’t make things tougher for them”
“Cherise, Broania University is also a good pick, with lots of influential students. Don’t make things difficult for your dad,” Mandy added, pretending to care.
Jacoby’s face clouded over, and he spoke to Cherise with a bit of itation. “Your mom excelled at Broanta University Fm not asking you to top her. Just get your degree After that. Ill get you into Leach Group to keep our family’s name in gort standing.”
Hearing about Cherise’s mom. Mandy felt a twinge of envy. Clilee, you still manage to overshadow things, but it’s no big deal, she thought. You were my rival back then, and now your daughter can’t compare to mine.