In just two days, Heimdall Technologies went from an unknown company to the market leader in the region. They had successfully acquired eight other companies and taken over three more.
Waking up in the morning, Eleanor felt a sense of accomplishment. "Now that we have almost every hardware and software supply line under our fold, we can definitely build our own AI within a year," she thought.
She shook the stray thoughts from her mind and focused on her daughter. Freya was everything to her. She had chosen the life of a werewolf to save her, and she would not stop until she saw with her own eyes her baby girl grow into a strong woman. Yes, she had a clear goal. That had never changed.
After breakfast, she went to her study to review the kindergartens before deciding which ones to visit. She swiftly hacked into their surveillance systems and observed their activities carefully.
After a while, she was utterly disappointed. Among the ten schools on the list, eight had serious security issues. There were several blind spots in their surveillance, and in some, the teachers' quality raised red flags in her mind.
Only two stood out as worth visiting: Fallowfield Girls Academy and Heaton Mersey Independent School. One was near her villa, while the other was near her office.
After making her decision, she called Maya and asked her to adjust the schedule to visit only those two schools. Maya quickly made the arrangements and canceled the other appointments.
At ten in the morning, Eleanor stopped her car in front of Fallowfield Girls Academy. Today, she dressed casually and did not bring her security team because she didn't want to cause a scene at her daughter's school. She wanted Freya to have a normal schooling experience like the other children in her class.
If she flaunted her wealth, the teachers might treat Freya differently, which could hinder her ability to form relationships with her classmates. Some children might envy her, while opportunistic parents might encourage their children to befriend her for personal gain. Both situations would make it difficult for Freya to enjoy a normal childhood.
The front guards saw her Range Rover and politely asked for the reason for her visit. They then pointed her toward the reception desk.
When she arrived at the reception, she saw a young woman sitting behind the desk, absentmindedly polishing her nails. Eleanor stepped forward.
The receptionist glanced at her with evident boredom and asked, "Reason?"
Eleanor replied, "I have an appointment with the headmaster."
The woman cut her off. "Reason?" she repeated.
Eleanor was taken aback. She involuntarily checked her dress… it was fine. Though not from a major brand, it was a custom-made and expensive outfit devoid of any dirt or spots.
She shook her head slightly and replied, "I came to discuss my daughter's admission."
The receptionist scoffed. "The admission window is closed. You have to apply for September or January."
"Please inform the headmaster that I have arrived. I had a prior appointment with him."
"Okay, okay," the receptionist sighed before reaching for the intercom. Just as she was about to make the call, a bulky middle-aged woman barged in and nearly pushed Eleanor aside. She shouted, "Receptionist, call my daughter's homeroom teacher. I want to take her shopping."
The receptionist's demeanor instantly changed. She stood up hurriedly, her voice polite and enthusiastic. "Mrs. Brown, please wait a moment. I'll arrange it right away."
She then turned to Eleanor and said rudely, "Didn't you see Mrs. Brown standing here? Why didn't you make space for her? Move aside."
Eleanor's blood boiled at the blatant rudeness, but she controlled herself. "You didn't tell me when I can meet the headmaster."
"He's busy right now. Go to the first floor and wait in front of Room 201."
Just as Eleanor turned to leave, the receptionist muttered under her breath, "Such upstarts. They strike a bit of money and think they can buy their way into prestigious schools."
With her enhanced wolf hearing, Eleanor heard every word. She ignored the comment and went upstairs. When she reached Room 201, she heard muffled noises… soft moans coming from inside. Her face flushed.
The school was in session, and the headmaster was engaged in such activities?
Eleanor pondered the situation for a moment before making a decision. This school would not be suitable for her daughter. Without hesitation, she walked back to her car and drove away.
She went directly to Heaton Mersey Independent School. Although her appointment was at 11, she arrived early. Unlike the previous school, there was no guard standing at the entrance. She confidently walked in. Just as she was about to enter the building, a uniformed middle-aged guard emerged from the gate and politely stopped her.
"Miss, you seem new here. Please state the purpose of your visit."
Eleanor was surprised. "How do you know I'm new?"
The guard pointed toward the gate. "Did you see the box beside the entrance? That's the guard station. Parents must report their reason for visiting during school hours. A duty guard then informs the appropriate office and directs them."
"Oh! That explains why I didn't see anyone standing at the gate. I sensed someone inside the box, but I assumed I could go directly to the reception."
She smiled and continued, "Actually, I have an appointment with the headmistress at 11 regarding my daughter's admission. I arrived early."
The guard smiled. "It's okay. I'm the guard captain here. You've chosen the best school in the area for your daughter."
He hesitated for a moment before asking, "May I ask you a personal question?"
Eleanor nodded. She had a feeling she knew what he was about to ask. "Go ahead."
"I know you're an Alpha. I am one too. You must have sensed it. But I feel an urge to bow to you… you're much stronger than me despite being younger. May I know your name? By the way, I'm Emmanuel Lowe, firstborn of Clan Head Edward Lowe."
Eleanor's mind quickly recalled everything she knew about the Lowe Clan. They were from Stockport, which meant their home was nearby. They were a peace-loving pack that didn't meddle in other packs' affairs. They primarily operated within the country, running a reputed law firm, and many of their members worked in various government departments.
"I am Eleanor Elizabeth Raynor," she said.
Emmanuel's eyes widened in shock. He knew what "Elizabeth" meant. All adult wolves did. They were taught by their elders never to cross an Elizabeth, no matter how harmless she appeared. Elizabeths were super Alphas, possessing powerful ancient bloodlines. Some elders even said, "If you harm an Elizabeth, the Raynors will eliminate your bloodline to the last stray member."
He quickly placed his hand over his heart and bowed slightly. "It's an honor to meet the distinguished Elizabeth of the Raynor Clan. Please forgive my lack of preparation… I never expected to meet someone of your standing here."
Eleanor smiled. "It's fine. I am here as a member of human society. Besides, under Grandma Fiona's rule, there's no room for arrogant or pompous behavior. No Raynor will mind your conduct."
At that moment, Emmanuel's radio buzzed. "Captain, is there a problem? Should we mobilize the team?"
Emmanuel hurriedly pressed the button and replied, "No need. She's a friend. We were just catching up."
He turned to Eleanor, looking embarrassed. "Apologies. My team is just following protocol."
"It's fine. In fact, I'm pleased with their response. It means my daughter will be safe here," Eleanor said with a neutral expression. There was no sign of emotion on her face.