Chapter 89: The Success of the Foundation.
Chapter 89: The Success of the Foundation.
The hundreds of people come to celebrate another milestone for her charity were visible to Sophia as she stood at the front of the crowded event hall. Women of various ages, survivors who had been shattered but were now strong, flooded the room, making the scene magnificent. others wiped away tears, others clasped hands, and many people grinned hopefully.
She inhaled deeply and held the microphone tightly. I believed my grief would define me years ago. I thought heartache and treachery would shatter me. Standing here now, however, I see evidence that our tale need not finish with suffering. We are able to climb. We are able to repair. Moreover, we may prosper.
Applause erupted around the room. The scene was recorded by reporters as cameras flashed. One of the first women the charity had assisted, Olivia, was seated in the front row with her hands clutched over her heart when Sophia saw her.
The cheering subsided, and Sophia went on. A site of suffering gave birth to the Rebuild Foundation; today, it is a place of strength. We have facilitated the education, freedom, and safety of more than 1,000 women. Furthermore, I assure you that this is only the start.
She received a standing ovation as the crowd stood up. With pride swelled in her chest, Sophia grinned. Alexander, who stood at the side of the room with his arms crossed, admiring her, caught her eye.
As the ceremony came to a close, Sophia made her way through the audience, shaking hands and hearing survivor tales. A lady who was crying came up to her. She murmured, "You had saved my life." There was nowhere for me to go until I discovered this foundation. I've got a job, a house, and optimism once again now. Thank you.
Sophia gripped her hand tightly. You rescued yourself. You just needed a little assistance.
The throng started to thin out, and Alexander approached her. “You looked amazing up there.”
With a sigh, she leaned in close to him. "It's still not real."
Believe it. Sophia, you did this. Moreover, everyone is observing.
Her helper hurried over before she could reply. "Sophia, you must watch this."
Her phone was raised. A notice for breaking news appeared on the screen.
Anonymous Donor Promises the Rebuild Foundation $10 Million
Sophia's eyes became wide. “Ten million?”
The person who helped her nodded. "And they'd like to meet you." At night.
Sophia and Alexander shared a look. Something felt... strange about this.
Alexander clenched his jaw. "Take caution." Not every present has the best of intentions.
Sophia's shoulders stood up straight. "I will soon enough find out."
Heart thumping, Sophia gazed at the phone's screen. Not only was the $10 million contribution very kind, but it changed lives. But she felt uneasy about the donor's anonymity.
She asked her assistant, Grace, whether they had left any contact details.
Grace gave a nudge. A request for a private meeting at the Claridge Hotel tonight was sent via email.
The look on Alexander's face deepened. It's suspicious. Just money and a meeting—no identity, no history?”
Sophia's lip was being bit. Perhaps it's a rich benefactor who desires seclusion. It may be something else, however.
Taking her hand, Alexander did. "Permit me to accompany you."
Sophia's head was shaken. No. I'd provide protection if they would want to meet in public. But I had to do this by myself first, if only to listen to them.
Clearly upset, Alexander sighed. “All right. However, if anything doesn't seem right, you leave. Make a promise to me.
“I promise you.”
The Claridge Hotel Later That Evening
Sophia scanned the dimly lit Claridge Hotel private lounge as she entered. With his back straight and his fingers tapping a glass of whiskey, a guy wearing a pricey navy-blue suit sat at the corner table.
Upon her approach, he rose and extended his hand. "Ms. Laurent. It's nice to meet you at last.
After an instant's hesitation, Sophia shook his hand. "And you are?"
The gentleman grinned. Call me Mr. Hart if you want.
"Mr. Hart, your gift to the charity was really kind. I wanted to thank you personally.
"Please sit," he said. Your work is really motivating. I am in favor of standing for strong women who overcome hardship.
Sophia took in his study. "Why keep your identity a secret?"
He smiled a little less. "Ms. Laurent, since I have strong adversaries. And I'd rather help your foundation than make you a target.
Sophia felt a shiver go through her body. “A target?"
Hart put his head forward. "You and your hubby have made enemies with some people. The folks who don't want to lose have been intimidated by your achievement. This offering is a warning as much as a present.
Sophia's fists curled around her. “A warning of what?”
Hart's face darkened. "That they have not yet finished with you."