Nicholas opened her eyes to what Floria could do. Her sister's intelligence. She would always brag about it. She acted rash because she didn't know how to use her boldness and daring spirit. The thought of the University gave her a second thought but it would be like killing two birds with one stone. It would be sending her away like Mr Franklivania needed and pushing her to knowledge, putting her through the right track.
Lily brought out her phone and started to look up for different universities in Vancouver where she would be sent. She attended her graduate school outside the country, so she knew little about the Universities in Vancouver. She didn't want to send her far away, she needed her close. Somewhere she would be able to come back when it gets hard. With this in mind, she began her search for suitable institutions in Vancouver. Her phone was a flurry of activity as she sifted through various university websites, read reviews, and compared programs.
Feeling a bit overwhelmed, Lily decided to seek additional help. She turned to Old Bloom, her grandmother, for guidance. Old Bloom had always been a source of wisdom and support in their family, and Lily hoped her experience could help in finding the perfect university for Floria.
"Who do I have here?" Old Bloom said as Lily stepped out of the car.
"Good afternoon Old Bloom" Lily greeted as she hugged her.
"How do you do?"
Lily withdrew herself from the hug. "You know how I'm faring Old Bloom"
"How am I expected to know?"
"Of course it's all in the news" Lily said expressionless.
"Yeah. But you know I rarely watch them" Old Bloom stated, pointing her with her index finger.
"Should I sell the television in your parlor?" Lily joked to Old Bloom's amusement.
"Then you'll relocate here to keep me company" they laughed. "Come on in child"
As they settled down In the kitchen, the old woman saw the worry hanging on her grand daughter's eyes.
"So Young Bloom, why did you come?" She asked, hoping to get the reason for her worry.
"So I can't visit again?"
"Of course you can" Old Bloom saw that coming.
"But I did come because of something"
"What could that be?"
"I'm looking for a good college for Floria"
"Sounds good. But I thought she never loved the idea of colleges?"
"Yes. But it's desideratum now. And i think she never liked the idea, judging from the fact that I studied outside. Floria despises leaving home"
"So you plan for her to study here? In Vancouver?"
"Would it be so bad?"
"No, but Adonijah will not like the idea."
"Why is he always sending us far by the way?"
"Your father believes that staying away from this country is safer. You girls are the daughters of a public figure. The distractions and insecurities that come with it is what he's trying to avoid"
"Floria would be safe here"
"Are you sure?" Old Bloom asked with slight disbelief.
"I am certain" Lily answered.
"Alright then, i think i know just the place," Old Bloom said after a moment of thought. "Let's look into the University of Fraser Valley. I've heard good things about it, and it's not too far from Vancouver."
"Where is it located?"
"It's east of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It's formally known with the acronym 'UFV'" Old Bloom replied.
They spent the afternoon poring over information about the University of Fraser Valley. Old Bloom's insights proved invaluable. She recalled a few acquaintances who had praised the university's supportive environment and strong academic programs. Lily appreciated her grandmother's perspective, especially as it included personal recommendations and practical advice.
Lily and Old Bloom examined the university's website, noting its array of programs and its emphasis on student support services. Old Bloom pointed out the advantages of smaller class sizes, which would likely help Floria receive more personalized attention. They discussed the campus facilities, which included state-of-the-art labs and a library with extensive resources.
Old Bloom also had a knack for finding the right questions to ask. She suggested Lily contact the admissions office directly to get more specific details about the programs Floria was interested in, as well as any additional support services that might be available. Lily took notes, making sure she didn't miss any important details.
By the time Lily left Old Bloom's house, she felt a renewed sense of clarity and optimism. The University of Fraser Valley seemed to offer the perfect balance between academic challenge and proximity to home, which was exactly what Floria needed. Lily was grateful for her grandmother's help and felt ready to take the next steps.
The next step was getting her into the school. At this point, she was tired of following procedures, knowing fully well that this should be done and done fast. She took Old Bloom's advise and went to the school direct, aiming to meet the president of the school directly. She was bent on using her influence now.
"Good morning Miss Lily...."
"It's 'Mrs' sir" Lily corrected. "Mrs. Lily"
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Lily" the stout and middle aged man apologized.
"You're the president of UFV?" Lily asked, despite knowing.
"Of course you're In the right office"
"Remind me your name" Lily kept talking with temerity.
"Mr. Windows. John Windows, in full"
"Okay Mr. John Windows, I wish for my sister to get admission into this school" she said concisely.
"That's a good idea. Where did she attend her high school if I may ask"
"Does that actually matter?" She replied curtly.
"Here Mrs. Lily, we work with excellence"
"Excellence? She attended high school outside the state"
"Where?"
"U. S. A"
"Woah. There are good high school in the states.."
"Do you still want to know the name?" Lily asked.
"Would it be so bad?"
Lily found it a bit boring, so she brought out her sister's transcript from high school and handed it over. Mr. Windows looked at it with awe.
"Your sister is good.."
"I do not have time for that Mr. Windows" Lily interrupted. "I will tell my father-in-law, Mr. Franklivania about the new development. Send everything required to me and tell me when she's to start"
"Mrs..."
"We are done here" Lily stood up and stretched out her hands for a handshake.
"Of course we are done" Mr. Windows replied, taking the handshake. "I'll send you an email"
"Better. Have a nice day Mr. Windows" Lily said and left. She felt brave once more.
The following week, Lily sat down with Floria to discuss her new educational path. Floria had been eager to hear about the university Lily had found, and she listened intently as Lily explained the details. At first, Floria was not happy with the idea but that's the only way for her to escape from the society.
"You want to send me away" she said downcast.
"Ria, it's all for the best"
"Which college and which country this time around, if I may ask"
"It's not outside. It's here, in Vancouver. University of Fraser Valley"
Floria cleaned her ears with her two index fingers. She was surprised at what she just heard. For her dad, schooling at any level meant leaving the country. She was happy she's still close to home this time although it wasn't actually home. "University of Fraser Valley sounds like a great fit." Floria said, her eyes lighting up. "I've heard some good things about it too." She feigned, trying to solidify her sister's idea. She prayed she wouldn't change her mind along the way. She really wanted to be close to home.
Lily nodded, relieved to see her sister's enthusiasm. "It's a fresh start, Floria. I think it'll help you grow and develop your potential. And you'll still be close enough for me to support you."
As the days passed, preparations for Floria's move began in earnest. Lily worked hard to arrange accommodation near the university and sort out the necessary paperwork. She also made sure Floria's transition would be as smooth as possible by planning visits to the campus.
Lily and Old Bloom continued to provide support and encouragement. Old Bloom even suggested a few local places that Floria might enjoy exploring once she arrived. It was clear that the whole family was invested in making this transition a positive experience for Floria.
The day of the move arrived with a mix of excitement and nervousness. Floria packed her belongings, making sure to bring along mementos of home to make her new space feel familiar.