The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel 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."

I 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.

"It's 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. It's 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 didn't expect you to do something like this."

I looked at her calmly. "People change, don't they?"

Yvonne opened her mouth as if to say something, but she sighed instead. "Cole, I hope we can have a proper talk—for the sake of the children."

I paused before replying, "Alright. We'll 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.