Chapter 774

The sheer prestige of being the state's top scholar was something even a fool could grasp. It meant that Jack completely outclassed everyone at the table in terms of intellect.

In other words, everyone else present was practically insignificant.

They took their seats, quietly granting him the stage to showcase his brilliance.

Even those who weren't on friendly terms with Jack watched him in stunned silence. Among these young elites were both underachievers and overachievers. To them, however, a top scholar was nothing more than a legend.

When Jack nodded in confirmation, the entire table erupted in murmurs.

Though unwilling to admit defeat, Greta's voice betrayed her insecurity. "Yeah, right! Anyone can brag! I might as well say I'm the top student at Harverd!"

However, her attempt to retort fell so flat.

By now, the commotion had drawn the attention of the next table.

At that moment, Knox's mother, Lillian Hammond, beamed with pride as she boasted about her sons' accomplishments. She spoke of how Tristan had helped Quintis manage the Sandalwood Group. Then, she lauded Knox for building his own billion-dollar company through pure talent. The source of thɪs content is find(ɴ)ovel.net

Interrupted, Lillian frowned in displeasure. "What's all this noise about?"

Tatiana pointed at Jack. "He said he was the top scholar in the state on the college entrance exam. He's now studying at Alnewgo University."

Instantly, all eyes locked onto Jack, skepticism written across their faces.

Top scholar in the state? Who the hell was he?

Only then did Norman recall Jack's academic distinction and quickly rise to clarify.

"Oh, I forgot to mention Jack here was the top scholar in his state! Now he's studying at Alnewgo University!"

The revelation sent shockwaves through the room. Everyone stared at Norman, desperate to confirm whether this was true.

The younger crowd hoped Norman was joking. If it were true, it would make their earlier mockery utterly humiliating.

Lillian, in particular, found it impossible to accept the truth. Just moments earlier, she had been bragging relentlessly. She mocked Jack both openly and subtly, dismissing him as a country bumpkin unfit for refined circles.

If Jack were truly so accomplished, how could she still be scheming to claim Quintis and Emily's inheritance?

Yet, Norman nodded and confirmed it-Jack was the top scholar in the state. He informed them that they could still look it up online.

This revelation shattered the hearts of everyone who had been mocking Jack.

They had access to the best resources and freely ridiculed those beneath them. Yet, despite all that, they couldn't measure up to Jack, who had risen from humble beginnings. It stung worse than a slap to the face.

Greta flushed red with anger and finally snapped. "Oh, please. What's he got to brag about? As if he could ever measure up to Maverick, Tristan, or Knox. Knox is already the CEO of a listed company!"

She was too embarrassed to bring up Tristan, since everyone knew he worked under Quintis.

The others quickly chimed in. Since they couldn't outshine Jack themselves, they chose to elevate Knox instead. They hoped that he would put this so-called country bumpkin in his place and ease their bruised egos.

Quintis and Emily were proud of Jack. However, hearing that Knox had become the head of a major corporation left them feeling inadequate.

Jack, however, said nothing. He didn't see the point in trading blows with this pack of spoiled brats. After a few bites of his meal, he stepped outside for a smoke.

With him gone, the conversation died down.

By the time he returned, the family dinner was nearly over.

The next day, Quintis chose not to return to Tarthy City. Instead, he decided to stay in the capital for a few more days.

Vincent's seventieth birthday was approaching. He should have at least stayed until the celebration was over.

Once Samantha returned, the younger family members would have her backing. With that support, they'd likely treat Jack's family with even less warmth.

Jack didn't care. He'd never had much affection for his so-called grandmother. He understood the importance of respecting elders.

But if Samantha crossed the line, he wouldn't hesitate to push back and restore the dignity Emily deserved.