Rebirth: We Split Ways.. novel Chapter 98

Penelope glanced at the news on his phone and smiled, relieved. "These kids are incredible! They followed through on their promise."

[Of course, let's set a time and place.]

[Sister Raccoon, can we meet at the entrance of Seattle University?]

It dawned on Penelope that perhaps it wasn't the best time for her to be out and about.

[Where are you? I'll send someone to pick you up.]

An hour later.

Below the grand Diamoson Building, reporters lingered, anticipating Penelope's appearance, hoping to capture more footage.

Then, a business van pulled up, and three children stepped out, their eyes gleaming with clarity.

Sharp-eyed journalists immediately recognized the girl leading them as this year's top scorer in Seattle's college entrance exam — Grace Clay.

Behind her were two notable boys: Josh Benz, the top scorer in the science stream, and Kyle Park, the recipient of the New Concept Composition Award.

They each bore subtle surgical scars on their upper lips, remnants from the corrective surgeries they underwent as children for their congenital cleft lips.

It was June, the period when the results of the college entrance examination were released. Alongside celebrity scandals, the college entrance exam remained a burning topic of interest among netizens.

The camera and microphone approached Grace and the other two individuals.

"First and foremost, congratulations to our classmates Grace, Josh, and Kyle for securing admission into Seattle University with exceptionally high scores."

Children with facial deformities typically exhibit self-consciousness in front of a camera. Yet, when confronted with the situation, Grace, Josh, and Kyle all beamed confidently and responded, "Thank you."

"Three classmates journeyed from the humblest mountain regions to the coveted university in Seattle—a dream destination for students nationwide. Such determination is truly commendable. Could you share the secrets behind your success?"

"We have a supportive and caring sister standing behind us."

"She funded all our schooling expenses and those of my partner, even arranging for experts to travel to the mountains for the surgery on our child born with a congenital cleft lip."

"She has been our guiding light."

Even though the reporters delved into scandalous topics with harsh words and unfounded speculations, hinting at gossip and hearsay, they still retained a shred of integrity as journalists. However, when discussing national treasures, they trod more cautiously with their words.

She had previously discovered the background of these three children. Residing in a secluded mountainous region, they faced the tragedy of losing their parents. Moreover, in their village and even beyond, many mothers, due to inadequate medical facilities and oversight, unknowingly gave birth to children with cleft lips. The magnitude of this issue was startlingly significant.

Subsequently, this compassionate individual, fondly known as "the Raccoon," generously sponsored the surgical repair for nearly a thousand children born with congenital cleft lips. Additionally, they took on the role of a benefactor for these children, providing them with educational opportunities and paving the way for them to emerge from the mountains.

"You're Sister Raccoon!"

Josh was the first of the three to snap back to reality. Observing the bright and noble lady before him, the one who had consistently sent encouraging messages, he, now a grown-up, found his face subconsciously turning red.

"This is stunning..." Grace couldn't help exclaim, his eyes gleaming with a sparkle typically reserved for young girls.

"It's just like the elder sister I always pictured," Kyle said, flashing a broad, gleaming smile.

The three children felt too bashful to embrace one another, but Penelope stepped forward, wrapping them all in a heartfelt hug, proclaiming, "You make me so proud!"

These words unveiled the vulnerable side of the children. Reflecting on their challenges to uphold their agreement, they could no longer suppress their tears.

"Thanks to you, Sister, we did it," Grace murmured.

"The questions were challenging to solve, but with your encouragement, I gritted my teeth and persevered."

"Thank you."

Penelope gently patted their heads, "You all did wonderfully."

Suddenly, Grace remembered this morning's top trending topic online, "Are you the person everyone's criticizing online?"