The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel Chapter 22

This new project was an education investment plan I had been planning for a long time, aimed at providing better learning environments and opportunities for children in remote mountainous areas.

A few days later, I met Peyton at a quiet café. After some small talk, we quickly got down to business.

"Cole, the concept of your education project is fascinating," Peyton said thoughtfully. "But have you considered that it might spark some controversy?"

I raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

Peyton set his coffee cup down and explained, "Look, there's a certain bias in society against wealthy people doing charity work. Some might question your motives, accusing you of seeking publicity or whitewashing your reputation."

I chuckled. "Peyton, I'm not doing this to please anyone. I simply believe every child deserves a fair chance. If people want to criticize, let them."

"You're right." Peyton nodded, appearing to reflect on my words. "But I have a suggestion. Why not turn this project into a foundation? That way, it would be more transparent and could attract additional resources from the community."

His idea sparked my interest. "That's a great suggestion. It's definitely worth considering."

Just then, my phone rang unexpectedly. It was a call from Jonas' school.

The teacher sounded a bit troubled. "Mr. Joplin, could you come to the school? We need to discuss something regarding Jonas in person."

Suppressing a sigh, I headed to the school.

In the principal's office, I found Jonas sitting quietly to the side with his head down while the principal and his homeroom teacher looked serious.

The principal began, "Mr. Joplin, we've noticed that Jonas has been emotionally withdrawn lately. He often isolates himself and interacts very little with his peers. We're concerned that this might affect his learning and personal development."

Jonas remained silent for a moment before whispering, "Daddy, am I causing you trouble?"

I was taken aback, then pulled him into a hug. "How could you cause me trouble? You're my most precious treasure and will never be a burden."

Jonas looked up with a hint of sadness. "But… Xavier keeps saying that if it weren't for me, you and Mommy wouldn't have divorced."

Anger flared in my chest. Xavier was still stirring up trouble, after all!

I crouched down to look Jonas in the eye and said firmly, "Jonas, listen to me. You had nothing to do with any of this. Grown-ups have complicated problems, but none of it is your fault. No matter what happens, Daddy and Mommy both love you."

As I watched him slowly calm down, an idea came to me. I smiled and said, "Jonas, I'm working on something very meaningful right now. I'll be helping children from underprivileged families. Would you like to join me? We could deliver school supplies to them and spend time chatting with them. How does that sound?"