The Heart Left Behind

Chapter 25 I smiled at Jonas before stepping onto the stage .

Ladies and gentlemen , good evening .

I looked around the room .

Tonight , I want to share a dream with you .

A dream born from the purest desire in all of us the wish to provide a better future for the next generation .

1 began speaking about my education project and the experiences I had at the rural elementary school .

When I described the eager eyes of the children yearning for knowledge , I noticed some in the audience wiping their eyes .

I believe education should not be a privilege for the few but a right for every child , I said with conviction .

Its our responsibility to create a fair starting point for these children , giving them a chance to pursue their dreams .

When the speech ended , the room erupted in applause .

Feeling relieved , I stepped off the stage and returned to my seat .

Jonas hugged me excitedly .

Daddy , you were amazing ! Everyone was clapping for you ! I smiled and tousled his hair .

Thank you , Jonas .

Its all because I had your support .

After the gala , many people came to speak with me , expressing their support for the project .

I responded to each of them , though I felt a bit drained .

As I was about to leave with Jonas , Yvonne approached us .

She said with a complex expression , Cole , your speech … was very moving .

I didnt expect you to do something like this .

I looked at her calmly .

People change , dont they ? Yvonne opened her mouth as if to say something , but she sighed instead .

Cole , I hope we car have a proper talk for the sake of the children .

I paused before replying , Alright .

Well arrange a time .

As Jonas and I left the venue , the night breeze brushed against our faces .

Looking down at my son , I felt a deep sense of contentment .

No matter what the future held , at that moment , it was just the two of us , standing together That was everything to me , and I treasured it most of all .

The next morning , I received a call from Peyton .

Chan 25 Cole , youve gone viral ! Peyton said excitedly .

The video of your speech last night is all over the internet .

Everyones touched by your sincerity .

Now , tons of companies are reaching out to be part of your project ! I was a bit surprised .

That quickly ? Peyton laughed .

Thats the power of public opinion .

Oh , by the way , our magazine wants to do an exclusive interview with you .

When will you be available ? I thought for a moment .

This Saturday works .

Ill be visiting the rural elementary school , and youre welcome to join me .

You might capture some meaningful moments for your article .

Perfect ! Peyton said .

See you Saturday .

After hanging up , I left my study and saw Jonas drawing in the living room .

I called gently , Jonas , were going back to visit the children this Saturday .

Would you like to come along ? Jonas looked up , his eyes sparkling .

Really ? Thats amazing ! Ive already prepared some things to give them ! Seeing his excitement warmed my heart .

Over the past few weeks , I had noticed a change in Jonas he had become more cheerful and confident .

Saturday arrived quickly .

With supplies ready , Jonas and I headed to the rural elementary school with Peyton and his interview team .

As soon as we stepped out of the car , several children came running up , shouting excitedly .

Mr.

Joplin ! Jonas ! Youre here ! Jonas greeted them with a big smile and immediately began handing out the supplies and toys we brought .

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