CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY NINE - In the Shadow of Doubt

"We... we'll need to discuss this," Ella said, trying to keep the disappointment out of her voice. "Is it alright if we take some time to consider?" "Of course," Dr. Carrey replied. "Please, take all the time you need. We'd be delighted to have Sophia join us, but we understand it's a big decision." As they left the school, walking back to their car in silence, the excitement they had felt earlier had been replaced by a heavy sense of reality.   Once they were in the car, Lucas turned to Ella. "It's perfect," he said softly. "Everything we wanted for Sophia. But..." "But we can't afford it," Ella finished, her voice thick with emotion. "Not without making some major upsets in budgets." Lucas nodded, reaching over to squeeze her hand. "We could make it work if we really pushed. But it would mean cutting back on a lot of things." Ella sighed, looking back at the school. "Is it worth it? To put that much financial pressure on our family?" They sat in silence for a moment, both wre