Nora’s gaze instinctively sought Samuel’s face. He was watching her, silent, but his eyes spoke volumes—a clear sense of pride and approval shining through.

Ever since she was a child, it wasn’t her parents’ reactions to her exam results that she cared about most—it was Samuel’s. Even now, that feeling lingered. Seeing his satisfaction made her heart swell with joy.

“Uncle, we did it!” she exclaimed, excitement lighting up her face as she stood ...