Under the Heiress' Facade

Hera barely gave the invitation a glance before another representative eagerly stepped forward.

"We're from Rutherford University, renowned for our excellence in mathematics, physics, medicine, law, and business. We'd like to invite you, Ms. Youngworth, to consider our institution." "We're from Comridge University..."

"Here is the invitation from the Marlborough Institute of Technology..."

"We represent Stanborough University..."

One after another, representatives from over a dozen internationally renowned universities extended their invitations to Hera, a scene that left the entire Cavenridge faculty and student body in awe. This was a moment many could only dream of, yet it was unfolding right before their very eyes!

As the room held its breath, anticipating Hera's choice, her beautiful face remained an enigmatic mask, revealing no hint of her thoughts. The esteemed invitations before her seemed to hold no more value than discarded notes.

In the corner, Christopher watched with bated breath, silently pleading for her to choose Vardhar University, the gateway to their shared dream of studying abroad.

Hera's gaze swept over the pile of invitations before lifting to meet the eyes of those assembled.

A hush fell over the room as she posed a question that stunned everyone, "Are there no universities from Jedburgh?"

The representatives from the world-renowned institutions were momentarily speechless while the Cavenridge students exchanged bewildered glances. Was she truly rejecting these global powerhouses in favor of a local Jedburgh university?

The representatives from Quantford and Bradbury, the two prestigious Jedburgh institutions, were caught off guard. A mixture of astonishment and delight washed over them.

They yearned for this exceptional student, but the overwhelming presence of prestigious international institutions made their own offerings feel insignificant.

To their utter surprise, Hera's question turned the tables.

"Yes, there are!" Representatives from Quantford and Bradbury eagerly extended their invitations.

A silent understanding passed between them. Even if Hera chose the other, it was a win for Jedburgh as long as she remained in the country.

After all, their campuses were mere steps apart, fostering a close-knit academic community.

"Thank you," Hera replied, accepting both invitations.

The decision of which university to attend was still pending, but her priority was clear-Jedburgh was her first choice.

The representatives from the global institutions were dumbfounded. They had been rejected!

This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that countless students yearned for, yet she had dismissed it without hesitation!

"Ms. Youngworth, could you enlighten us as to why you're narrowing it down to these two universities? Our teaching resources and overall offerings are undeniably superior."

Hera calmly replied, "I have no intention of studying abroad at this time. Should the need arise in the future, I'll reapply."

"There's no need for that. Please keep our invitation. Vardhar University's doors are always open to you."

"As are Comridge University's," another representative added.

"And Stanborough University's," echoed yet another.

A chorus of similar sentiments filled the room. Oblivious to the fact that this scene was being broadcast live throughout Cavenridge Academy, Hera responded with a firm tone, "Thank you, but I must decline. If there's nothing else, I'll be on my way."

The Cavenridge students watching were awestruck.

That was bold! Those were the world-renowned institutions they all dreamed of attending! Yet, she turned them down so effortlessly!

But strangely, a sense of vicarious satisfaction rippled through them.

As she reached the door, Hera paused, a thought crossing her mind. "If you're looking for other candidates, you might consider Cindy Fry from junior year, Class A."

She remembered how Cindy had helped her out of the locked dressing room the day before, a favor she felt compelled to return.