Chapter 8: Stepping Up
Charlee sat at her kitchen table, the folder from her father spread out in front of her. Papers, financial reports, and project proposals were scattered across the surface, each one a piece of the puzzle that was her grandfather’s foundation. She’d spent the entire morning poring over the details, trying to wrap her head around the scope of the work. It was overwhelming, but also… exciting.
Kane walked in, carrying two cups of coffee. He set one down in front of her and took a seat across the table. “How’s it going, boss?”
She glanced up, rubbing her temples. “I think I’ve read the same sentence about a dozen times. This is a lot more complicated than I thought.”
He leaned back in his chair, sipping his coffee. “Yeah, but you’ve got this. You’re smart, resourceful, and stubborn as hell. If anyone can figure it out, it’s you.”
Charlee smiled, despite herself. “Thanks for the vote of confidence. But I’m not sure where to even start.”
Kane reached over, flipping through the papers until he found a project proposal. “How about this one? It’s a community center in one of the underserved neighborhoods. Seems like a good place to make an impact.”
She picked up the proposal, scanning the details. It was a solid project—well-planned, with clear goals and a realistic budget. But it had been stalled for months, waiting for approval. “Why hasn’t this moved forward?” she asked, frowning.
Kane shrugged. “From what I can tell, it got caught up in red tape. Too many people signing off, not enough action. Sounds like it needs someone to take charge.”
Charlee nodded, a spark of determination igniting in her chest. “Then that’s where I’ll start. If I can get this project back on track, it’ll show everyone—including myself—that I can do this.”
Kane grinned, raising his coffee cup in a toast. “That’s the spirit. Let’s get to work.”
The next few days were a whirlwind of activity. Charlee threw herself into the project, meeting with the foundation’s team, reviewing budgets, and reaching out to community leaders. It was exhausting, but also exhilarating. For the first time in weeks, she felt like she had a purpose, like she was doing something that mattered.
Kane was by her side every step of the way, offering support, advice, and the occasional well-timed joke to keep her spirits up. He didn’t know much about running a foundation, but he had a knack for cutting through the noise and getting to the heart of the matter. And his unwavering belief in her gave her the confidence to keep going.
One afternoon, they visited the site of the proposed community center. It was an old, abandoned building in a neighborhood that had seen better days. But as Charlee walked through the space, she could see the potential. “This could be amazing,” she said, her voice filled with excitement. “A place for kids to learn, for families to come together. It could really make a difference.”
Kane nodded, his hands in his pockets as he looked around. “It’s got good bones. Just needs some TLC.”
Charlee turned to him, a determined look in her eyes. “Then let’s give it that TLC. I’m going to make this happen.”
Back at her apartment that evening, Charlee sat down at her laptop and started drafting an email to the foundation’s board. She outlined her plan for the community center, including a timeline and a revised budget. It was bold, maybe even a little risky, but she knew it was the right thing to do.
As she hit send, she felt a surge of adrenaline. This was it—her chance to prove herself, to show that she was more than just a headline or a scandal. She was Charlee Sullivan, and she was ready to make her mark.
Kane walked in, carrying a pizza box. “Figured you could use some fuel,” he said, setting it down on the table.
Charlee smiled, leaning back in her chair. “You’re a lifesaver.”
He opened the box, handing her a slice. “So, how’s it going?”
“I just sent the proposal to the board,” she said, taking a bite. “Now we wait.”
Kane raised an eyebrow. “You nervous?”
“A little,” she admitted. “But also excited. This feels… right, you know?”
He nodded, his expression serious. “I get it. And for what it’s worth, I’m proud of you. You’re stepping up, taking charge. It’s pretty damn impressive.”
Charlee felt a warmth spread through her chest. “Thanks, Kane. I couldn’t have done it without you.”
He grinned, his usual mischief returning. “Damn right. But don’t get too sappy on me, firecracker. We’ve still got work to do.”
She laughed, the sound light and genuine. “Yeah, we do. And I’m ready for it.”
As they ate, Charlee felt a sense of hope she hadn’t felt in a long time. The road ahead was still uncertain, but she was ready to face it. And with Kane by her side, she knew she could handle whatever came next.