### Chapter 5 The contrast between the quality of education in small towns and that of San Joto was like night and day. As Mr. Riddle Sr. absorbed the unsettling implication in Gloria's words, a frown creased his forehead. She was right, after all—what capable teachers could possibly emerge from a place so devoid of resources? With a measured breath, Mr. Riddle Sr. set down his teacup, his gaze sharpening as it fell upon Daniel. "Make arrangements for Nicole's schooling at once. The children of the Riddle family deserve nothing but the best." Nicole raised an eyebrow, a flicker of admiration sparking within her. Mr. Riddle Sr. was decisive, and she had always admired that quality. Yet, the weight of grades and expectations loomed overhead like a storm cloud. Before she could voice her thoughts, Daniel interjected with confidence. "Understood, Dad. I’ll take care of it." Mr. Riddle Sr. nodded sagely before turning his attention back to Nicole. "I recognize that small-town schools can't measure up. But remember, every single one of my grandchildren ranks in the top quintile. You won’t let me down, will you?” The earnestness in his voice left no room for doubt. Nicole felt a pang of responsibility. "You can count on me, Grandpa.” She wouldn’t risk tarnishing not just her reputation but her family's as well. "That's my girl." A smile broke across Mr. Riddle Sr.’s face, his pride evident. He called for the family butler, issuing a new command. "I’ll return today, but in a few days, you must bring Nicole to my house for a family dinner." The atmosphere in the room shifted dramatically, Daniel and Gloria exchanging alarmed glances. "Dad… Is it really necessary?" Daniel ventured, uncertainty creeping into his tone. With four sons, Mr. Riddle Sr. had high expectations. The eldest was a business savant, the second a financial titan, and the third a kingpin in banking. Daniel, however, had stepped away from the Riddle Corporation due to health concerns, leading to a rift with his brothers. Family gatherings had become a battlefield of subtle jibes and unspoken tension, and Gloria felt anxious at the thought of dragging Nicole into that fray. "Nicole has just returned; it's important for family to connect," Daniel replied, his voice calm despite his inner turmoil. "Besides, I plan to enroll her in Royal Creek Institute, and I’ll need my older brother’s assistance." Royal Creek Institute, a prestigious school boasting both high school and university divisions, was the crown jewel of San Joto's educational landscape. Its standards were demanding, but Daniel would settle for nothing less for his daughter. "Is Royal Creek Institute really that remarkable?" Nicole asked, her curiosity piqued, although she had reservations about the school’s reputation. "Absolutely. It’s the finest school in San Joto. Your brothers are all enrolled there, and if you gain admission to their high school, they will watch over you,” Daniel assured her, a hint of affection softening his normally stern demeanor. Gloria, however, remained skeptical. "That may be so, but when Dad helped Samuel get a spot there last time, his wife was decidedly uncooperative. I fear it would be even more challenging this time around," she expressed, anxiety swirling in her mind. "Isn't there any other route we could explore? The Holder family has some connections we could utilize." "It’s fine. Damien and his wife may grumble, but they aren’t inherently bad. I just need to ensure Nicole gets a spot at the Royal Creek Institute," Daniel replied softly, determination burning in his eyes. "Daniel…" Gloria's heart ached at the lengths he was willing to go for their daughter. Nicole felt a swell of emotion as she watched her parents willing to fight for her future. For the first time, the warmth of familial love enveloped her, igniting a resolve within. She knew she must navigate this path herself, not wanting to burden them with her struggles. Before long, Mr. Riddle Sr. spoke again, his tone steadfast. "Daniel is correct. Damien will assist, irrespective of his wife’s reluctance. Without fear, you have my unwavering support, Nicole." The firm conviction in Mr. Riddle Sr.’s voice made it impossible for Nicole to hold back tears. She felt protective warmth radiating from her family for the first time, and it sparked a fierce determination to prove herself. After a lengthy discussion about Nicole's future, Mr. Riddle Sr. departed, declining dinner so that he could take his leave. Following his exit, Daniel and Gloria retreated upstairs, leaving Nicole to ponder her own thoughts. Pulling out her phone, she navigated to her messages, fingers dancing across the screen as she crafted a text. Just as she was about to climb the stairs, a figure emerged from the shadows. "Did I overhear that Dad and Mom are sending you to the high school of Royal Creek Institute?" Nicole, momentarily taken aback, stepped onto the staircase, landing on the same level as Norah but ensuring she maintained a respectful distance. “And? Is that a problem for you?” Norah’s façade of concern was palpable. "It's not a problem per se. Just understand that you’ll be dragging others down if you can’t keep up. It would be rather embarrassing should you find yourself out of your depth." Nicole smirked as she seized the moment. "Oh really? What’s your take on this, Norah?" The sudden volley of assertiveness caught Norah off guard. Shaking off her surprise, she replied coolly, "Mom and Dad are going to great lengths for you to attend Royal Creek, but if your grades are poor, you’ll spoil it all. Why not suggest an alternative school instead?" Nicole's pulse quickened. The battle lines were drawn, and the stakes had never felt higher.