Hearing this, Cecilia felt a wave of warmth in her heart. "Okay," she said. "Let's go, then."

After leaving the restaurant, the two went their separate ways. Gwenda, instead of rushing home, called Suzanne and asked for contact details for several of her grandfather's old friends. Suzanne readily provided them.

Gwenda then contacted each friend individually, inviting them to meet at a café. Four people came—all her grandfather's most trusted subordinates and close friends; two had even watched her grow up.

Once seated, they asked, "Gwenda, why have you sought us out today?"

Gwenda set down her cup. "Mr. Sanders, Mr. Butler," she said, "I've invited you because I have an important matter to discuss."

Brandon Butler, well aware of her past behavior, was dismissive. "What important matter could you possibly have?" he scoffed.

"Gentlemen, I truly need your help with something important," Gwenda insisted.

Seeing their skepticism, she stood, bowed formally, and repeated her statement. Her solemnity prompted Brandon and the others to sit up straighter, awaiting her explanation.

Gazing at them, Gwenda composed herself. "I wish to acquire your shares in KG Entertainment."

Silence fell. The four men exchanged glances, unsure if they'd heard correctly.

The eldest kindly reminded her, "Miss Evans, why would you want our shares? KG Entertainment is struggling; it might close at any time. Even if we give you our shares, it's unlikely to yield any benefit."

The others fervently nodded in agreement. Brandon stated, "Indeed, KG Entertainment is not what it was during Mr. Reed's time. Our shares are worthless." Eddie Sanders added, "Gwenda, it's not that we don't want to help, but these shares are practically useless. Please don't waste your money."

Gwenda had anticipated this. After a pause, she said, "Gentlemen, I understand. I want these shares because I won't let the Evanses ruin my grandfather's life's work."

Seeing their puzzled expressions, she explained, "I was naive and deceived. Now, I want to protect my grandfather's business."

She continued, "You all worked hard with my grandfather. You know how much KG Entertainment meant to him. As his granddaughter, I must try to protect the company. Please help me achieve this goal!"

She bowed deeply again. The men, particularly Brandon, were moved. He'd watched Gwenda grow from a bright child into an arrogant spoiled brat under the Evanses' influence. He'd been disappointed, but he hadn't expected this change. It wasn't a complete failure to meet Mr. Reed's expectations.

Brandon spoke first. "Very well. If you want the shares, you can have mine. I'm old; I have no use for them."

Eddie agreed readily. "Me too. It saves me the trouble of attending shareholder meetings, and I can spend more time with my grandson."

The others followed suit. Gwenda felt immense relief. She finalized the details with them.

Leaving the café, evening had fallen. Gwenda sighed as she bid farewell to the four men. Gazing at the twilight sky, she thought, "Two major problems solved in one day. My path to rebirth has begun. I will never let the tragedy of my past life repeat itself!"

Re-energized, she started to leave, then paused. "Wait a minute" ☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐