Chapter 24

I ended the call, breathing deep to calm myself. These conflicts would only get worse.

A few days later, Peyton’s excited voice filled my phone. “Cole, something amazing! A charity gala heard about your project and wants you to speak. Interested?”

I hesitated. “A gala? Isn’t that…high profile?”

Peyton chuckled. “It’s huge! Share your vision, gain support. Plus…” He paused, “Yvonne and Jared will be there.”

“Alright,” I finally said, “I’ll go.”

Gala night. I donned a suit I hadn’t worn in years, adjusting my tie in the mirror. Jonas watched curiously.

“Daddy, party?”

“Yes, son, a very important one.”

“Can I come?”

I hesitated. “Jonas, it might be boring, even…complicated. Sure you want to?”

He nodded firmly. “I want to be with you, Daddy. And I want everyone to know we’re a family.”

My heart ached. I hugged him tight. “Let’s go.”

The gala buzzed with guests. Holding Jonas’ hand, I felt his nervousness. “Don’t be afraid,” I whispered. “You’re my son, and I’m so proud.”

As we entered, a commotion erupted. Yvonne and Jared, dazzling in a red gown and tailored suit respectively, walked in. Jonas hid behind me.

I patted his head. “It’s okay. Let’s find Peyton.”

Jared, Yvonne close behind, approached. “Good evening, Mr. Joplin,” he said, shaking my hand. “Admirable work.”

“Thank you, Mr. Lawson.”

Yvonne’s eyes widened at Jonas. “Jonas? Why are you here?”

He clutched my hand. “I wanted to come with Daddy.”

Yvonne’s smile felt forced. “Well, that’s…nice. Xavier’s here too, playing with other kids.”

Jonas shook his head.

Sensing the tension, Jared smiled. “Mr. Joplin, your speech? Looking forward to it.”

“I hope it won’t disappoint.”

The host announced the gala’s start. We found our seats, a few tables from Yvonne and Jared.

Midway through, it was my turn. I took a deep breath and stood.

“Good luck, Daddy,” Jonas whispered.