CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THREE - A Lesson in Humility

Later that night, as they lay in bed, Ella turned to Lucas. "You know, regardless of which school we choose, Sophia is going to be just fine." Lucas raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What makes you so sure?" Ella smiled, intertwining her fingers with his. "Because she has us. We'll always be there to support her, guide her, and love her unconditionally. That's worth more than any prestigious school or fancy curriculum." Lucas pulled her close, pressing a tender kiss to her lips. "You're absolutely right. We're in this together, and together, we'll make sure Sophia has everything she needs to succeed and be happy." The sleek, modern architecture of Evergreen Prep loomed before Ella and Lucas as they stepped out of their car. Sophia, dressed in her best sundress, clutched her mother's hand tightly, her eyes wide with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. "Ready for this?" Lucas asked, his voice tinged with a hint of nervousness. Ella nodded, squaring her shoulders. "As ready as we'll eve