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I nod in agreement. "And we can partner with local schools to get students involved. Education is key."
Her eyes meet mine again, and there’s a spark there—a connection that feels deeper than words.
As we finalize our plans, I realize how grateful I am for this journey we’re sharing. She’s brought a sense of purpose into my life that goes beyond wealth or power.
"Ready to get started?" I ask.
"Absolutely," she replies with a radiant smile.
And just like that, we set out on this new path together—one where our combined efforts might just make Armstrong a better place for everyone who calls it home.
CHAPTER 25
ARIANA
Valen and I sit on the plush sofa in his study, the soft hum of the estate’s security systems in the background. The warmth from the fireplace bathes the room in a cozy glow. I trace a finger along the edge of my teacup, gathering my thoughts.
“I’ve been thinking about the local school,” I start, glancing at Valen. His green eyes meet mine, filled with that unreadable intensity.
He nods, encouraging me to continue. “It’s in terrible shape,” I say. “The building’s practically falling apart. The kids deserve better.”
Valen leans back, a thoughtful look crossing his face. “You’re right,” he agrees. “What do you propose?”
I exhale, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves. “We could fund some repairs. Maybe patch up the roof, fix the windows…”
Valen shakes his head, surprising me. “No.”
“No?” I repeat, trying to mask my shock and disappointment.
“Funding repairs is a temporary solution,” he explains, his voice calm but firm. “This should be a community effort led bythe local government. We need them involved to ensure long-term sustainability.”
I mull over his words, realizing he has a point. “So what do we do?”
“We petition the government,” he says with a determined glint in his eye. “We rally support from the community and push for a brand new school building. And we don’t stop there—we make sure they hire more teachers and provide better resources.”
A slow smile spreads across my face as his plan takes shape in my mind. “You think they’ll listen?”
“They will if we make enough noise,” Valen says confidently. "And if they want my endorsement, which they do."
I can’t help but laugh softly at his unwavering certainty. “You make it sound so simple.”
“Simple? No,” he says with a smirk. “Necessary? Absolutely.”
We spend the next hour outlining our plan, brainstorming ways to garner support from the local community leaders and residents alike. Valen suggests hosting town hall meetings and using his connections to apply pressure on the government officials.
“And what about involving some of your high-profile guests?” I suggest. “They might have influence or resources that could help. Sure their kids go to private school, but they need to feel some sort of investment in this place by now.”
“Smart thinking,” he acknowledges with an approving nod.
By the time we finish, my heart feels lighter with renewed hope for Armstrong’s future.
“Thank you,” I say softly, placing my hand on his arm.
“For what?”
“For believing this can work,” I reply.
He covers my hand with his own, his touch warm and reassuring. “I believe in us.”
