The Heart Left Behind

Chapter 24 After ending the call , I took a deep breath to try and calm myself .

I knew conflicts like this would only become more frequent in the days ahead .

A few days later , Peyton called me , his voice filled with excitement .

Cole , I just got word about something interesting .

A charity gala has heard about your project , and they want to invite you to give a speech .

Are you interested ? I hesitated .

A speech at a gala ? Isnt that a bit too high profile ? Peyton chuckled .

This is a great opportunity .

You could use it to share your vision and perhaps gain more supporters .

Plus … He paused for a moment before continuing , I heard Yvonne and Jared will be attending .

I was silent for a while before finally replying , Alright , Ill go .

On the evening of the gala , I put on a suit I hadnt worn in years and stood in front of the mirror to adjust my tie .

Jonas watched me curiously .

Daddy , are you going to a party ? I nodded .

Yes , Im attending a very important event .

Jonas blinked and asked , Can I go with you ? I paused , looking at him .

Jonas , this event might be boring , and there could be some .

complicated situations .

Are you sure you want to go ? Jonas nodded firmly .

I want to be with you , Daddy .

And I want others to know that were a complete family too .

Hearing this , my heart ached .

I hugged him tightly .

Alright , then lets go together .

go t When we arrived at the gala , many guests were already there .

I held Jonas hand , sensing his nervousness .

Dont be afraid , I said softly .

Remember , youre my son , and Im most proud of you .

As soon as we entered the hall , a commotion arose .

Looking toward the source of the noise , I saw Yvonne elegantly walking in with Jared by her side .

Jared was dressed in a tailored suit , and Yvonne wore a striking red gown .

Together , they were dazzling .

Jonas saw them and instinctively hid behind me .

I patted his head and reassured him , Its alright .

Lets go find Peyton .

Just as we were about to leave , Jared noticed us .

He walked over with a smile , with Yvonne Chapter 24 following close behind .

Good evening , Mr.

Joplin , Jared said , extending a hand .

Ive heard about your charity project .

Its truly admirable work .

I shook his hand briefly .

Youre too kind , Mr.

Lawson .

Yvonnes eyes landed on Jonas , and a hint of surprise crossed her face .

Jonas , why are you .

here ? Jonas clutched my hand tightly and said softly , ..

I wanted to come with Daddy .

Yvonnes expression turned awkward , but she forced a smile .

Well , thats nice .

By the way , Xavier is here too .

Hes over there playing with the other kids .

Do you want to join him ? Jonas shook his head without saying a word .

Sensing the tension , Jared smiled and said , Mr.

Joplin , I hear youre giving a speech later ? Im looking forward to hearing your thoughts .

I nodded .

Yes , I hope it wont disappoint .

At that moment , the host announced the official start of the gala .

I led Jonas to our seats , which were a few tables away from Yvonne and Jared .

Midway through the evening , it was time for my speech .

I took a deep breath and stood up .

Good luck , Daddy , Jonas whispered .