Chapter 156 Top of the Nation
The older man always had a way of scolding everyone as though they were under his command. Those around him got used to his style.
Crestfallen University’s and Crestfield University’s admission departments also needed to be in better shape.
Shaking, he announced. “That’s it. Milly got seven hundred forty–nine point five, just half a point shy of perfect. She’s not only leading our province, but she’s also the best across the whole country.”
At that declaration, a hush fell over the living room.
Even Philip, his aged fingers winding through his prayer beads, stopped cold as if he needed to hear it again, confused, “Which place? It can’t be out of a thousand, right?”
Jordan was the quickest to clear things up, “The highest score is seven hundred and fifty, so with Milly’s seven hundred forty–nine point five, she’s barely missed being perfect but still tops the country.”
Philip sipped his tea, trying to wrap his head around the news, mumbling, “Top scorer in the country.”
Jordan looked at him, expressionless, explaining the weight of Milly’s achievement, “It’s like being the number one scholar back in the day.”
The news made Philip’s handshake, spilling some of his tea.
The older man might not be familiar with today’s slang, but he understood the importance of being the top student. Back in his day, it meant donning a unique cap and gown and receiving cheers and applause from the entire community.
While it might not be that glorious today, it still carries immense pride for the family.
“Really, the top scorer? The whole country’s top scorer?” Philip asked again, finding it hard to believe.
Seeing Philip’s change in attitude, the staff from Crestfallen University spoke with more assurance, “Yes, she’s the country’s top scorer. Once the results are public, expect the media to come knocking for
interviews.”
Philip just nodded calmly in response, leaving everyone else puzzled by his composure.
Wouldn’t most parents be excited about learning their child is the national top scorer?
The rich live differently, navigating through storms yet easily keeping their cool.
But not everyone could stay calm. Jonathan was so overjoyed that he jumped up and started running around Milly like a hyper dog, his eyes shining with amazement, “Wow, Milly, you’re amazing. You’re the national champion!”
Milly, trying to calm him down while nursing a slightly swollen forehead from his vigorous celebration, corrected. “Only first place, not a champion!”
But Jonathan wouldn’t have it, “First place means champion! You’re the champion! And that’s way better than those who think they’re something special for placing fifth nationally. Pfft, as if anyone cares about
that!”
Chapter 156 Top of the Nation
At this, Xavier’s face turned pale, his expression freezing over. His eyes lifted slowly, and even the muscles in his face trembled, “That can’t be right! It’s just not possible!”
Jonathan sighed, “What’s so hard to believe? Milly is just that good, easily outshining you.”
Xavier struggled for air, grinding his teeth as if his core beliefs were crumbling then and there.
Drawing upon the tension, Jonathan boldly stepped before Milly, defiantly facing his taller brother, “What’s wrong? Can’t stand losing? Thinking about hitting Milly?”
He couldn’t believe Xavier would dare to even look at Milly that way.
Without Jordan and grandfather’s restraining presence, he’d definitely teach Xavier a lesson he wouldn’t forget.
As things heated up for another round of confrontation, Jordan cut in before their grandfather could lose his temper, sternly telling Jonathan, “Jonathan, show some respect to Xavier, and sit down!”
Jonathan, still heated, retorted, “Hmph, but he disrespected–Milly!”
Everything paused momentarily until Xavier eventually stormed off with a frown.
Jonathan showed his disdain for Xavier’s retreat, rolled his eyes, and lounged back on the couch, muttering. “Hmph! Losers!”
After his outburst of prideful indignation, Jonathan was gearing up to go over to Milly to brag about his daringness, but then he caught Jordan’s eye.
Suddenly, Jonathan was hit by a wave of fear.
He backed up a bit, realizing he might have overstepped earlier, his heart racing as he started to stammer out an apology, “I’m sorry, Jordan. I won’t do it again. I’ll go say sorry to others, too.”
But Jordan just gave a soft “Hmm” followed by “Your allowance will get a thirty thousand dollars boost. each month.”
Jonathan’s eyes lit up. “Really? For real?”
With a stern look, Jordan warned, “Ask one more time and forget it.”
“Alright,” Jonathan agreed quickly.
As Jordan stopped paying attention to Xavier walking away, Xavier found himself wrestling with his pride. He couldn’t stand being outdone, even though he knew it was justified. Regret over how he treated Milly in front of Jordan nagged at him.
The disturbance seemed to pass right over Anthony, though. He nervously approached the admissions office counter and asked, “Could you check if my exam results are ready? Am I among the top thirty in the country?”
He was racked with anxiety missing out meant not being able to study the same subject as Milly!
And what if Milly was targeted with ill intentions? What if she was bullied by a group of girls? Or even worse, targeted by a deceitful professor?
Chapter 156 Top of the Nation
The more he thought about it, the more terrified lie became!
He needed to guarantee his place to stand by Milly! If he didn’t
There were rumours that this major required participating in yearly scientific research. As a desperate measure, he would offer himself up for science!
With a kind smile, the admissions office staff told him, “Antony, you’re in. You ranked twenty–fifth nationally and are accepted into the Life Science and Theoretical Research program.”
Anthony jumped for joy, saying, “Incredible! Milly, we’re going to be university mates!”
Feeling uplifted by his joy, Milly agreed, “Yeah!”
After choosing their majors and submitting their applications, the admissions staff wished them well.
When the maid returned to the living room after handing in the enrolment paperwork, she noticed Andrew on the phone, deeply into a conversation.
“Hey, Doug, have you eaten yet?”
“Anything new happening? How can nothing be going on? I heard your nephew also took the college entrance exams this year. How did he do?”
“It’s quite funny. My granddaughter also took the tests this year, but her scores weren’t as good as we hoped. What a pity!”
“I’ve heard the results are in. Crestfallen Univer. and Crestfield University are claiming the national
champions‘ top spot in the country. Reporters are probably on their way for interviews! Kids these days, they love being in the limelight.”
“My granddaughter didn’t do too well, but she’s got to deal with it, right? Hello hello?”
But before he could finish, the call dropped, leaving Milly lost in thought.
