A Life Beyond Limits novel Chapter 518

Clarice took a sip of her soup and explained, "Making you apply to Alnewgo University might have been a mistake. While its School of Music is decent, it doesn't compare to the Montclair Conservatory. Honestly, you should've applied there from the start.

"But it's not too late to fix that. I've already spoken to the faculty at the Montclair Conservatory, and they're willing to accept you as a transfer student."

"Transfer?"

Bella's heart skipped a beat, her face turning pale. "Mom, I thought it was just for summer studies. And I've already settled into life at Alnewgo University—"

Clarice cut her off. "Bella, haven't you always loved the Montclair Conservatory? The academic and musical environment there suits you better. I've even found you a renowned mentor.

"If you go there, you'll be able to achieve your musical dreams. I've already mapped out your future. After graduation, you'll study abroad at the Royal Academy of Music."

"I..." Bella's voice wavered, her eyes avoiding her mother's.

Clarice had always been domineering, and it was that very forcefulness that had pushed Bella to comply and enroll at Alnewgo University in the first place.

But this time, she gathered her courage and spoke softly yet firmly. "Mom, I don't want to go."

Clarice's brows furrowed, her displeasure evident.

"Are you still hung up on Jack? What's so great about him? I've looked into him. He's not from a prominent family, just like your father—no, even less so. I don't want to be harsh, but the principle of marrying within your social class' is timeless.

"Right now, you're caught up in the excitement of puppy love, but have you thought about what happens when the passion fades? When you're in the mundane day-to-day, will you still be able to discuss Chopin and Beethoven with him? When you're dining at upscale restaurants, how will his family feel?

"The modest success they achieve might be the peak of their lives, but for you, it's just the starting point. What you should aim for is leaving your mark in your field, not wasting your life on someone like him."

Bella bit her lip hard, staying silent.

Clarice softened her tone. "Sweetheart, you have to understand where I'm coming from. I want the best for you—a life of comfort and security. You've always dreamed of making it big in music, and now the opportunity is right in front of you.

"After graduating from the Montclair Conservatory, I can send you abroad to study at the world's top Royal Academy of Music. How can you just give up on your dreams like this?

"And it's not like I'm asking you to break up with Jack for good. It's just a temporary separation. If, after some time apart, you still miss each other deeply, then I'll admit it's fate. I'll fully support you being together."