Chapter 27
Back in the city, Elena’s schedule filled quickly. The conference was just weeks away, and her team worked tirelessly to prepare. She found herself immersed in planning events, meeting new people, and shaping her vision for the foundation’s future.
One afternoon, while reviewing documents in her office, her phone buzzed with an unknown number. She hesitated but answered.
“Elena? It’s Carl.”
Her heart skipped, but she kept her voice steady. “Carl? What do you want?”
There was a nervous pause. “I know things ended badly between us… but I wanted to say I’m sorry—for everything. I was wrong to get involved with Andrew. You didn’t deserve that.”
Elena’s mind raced. Carl had been her friend once, her confidant before everything fell apart. Could she trust him now?
“I appreciate the apology,” she said carefully. “But I’m focused on moving forward. That’s where my energy goes now.”
Carl sighed. “I understand. If you ever need someone to talk to, I’m here.”
She hung up, emotions swirling. Forgiveness wasn’t a straight path—it was a choice she’d have to make every day.
Later, Sebastian found her staring out the window, lost in thought.
“Anything I can do?”
She shook her head. “No. Just… memories.”
He pulled her into a hug. “You don’t have to carry them alone.”
That night, Elena journaled:
“People come and go. Some stay as lessons, others as blessings. I choose to let go of pain, hold on to hope.”
Despite the past trying to tug at her, Elena felt stronger than ever. Her future was hers to shape—and she wasn’t afraid to fight for it.