CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY - The Evidence Unfolds

"Of course," Mrs. Hartley said, standing up. "I'll give you some privacy. Take all the time you need." As soon as she left the room, Ella turned to Lucas. "What do you think? Should we take the chance?" Lucas ran a hand through his hair, his frustration evident. "I don't know, El. The school seems great, but this whole situation feels so uncertain. What if we put all our eggs in this basket and it doesn't work out?" Ella nodded, understanding his concerns. "But what if it does work out? This could be the perfect place for Sophia." They debated back and forth for several minutes, weighing the pros and cons. The school's environment and philosophy were exactly what they'd been looking for, but the admissions complications were worrying. Finally, Lucas sighed. "Maybe... maybe we should sleep on it. This is a big decision, and I don't think we should rush into anything." Ella agreed, though she couldn't shake the feeling that they might be letting a great opportunity slip away. When