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.

After hanging up, I left my study and saw Jonas drawing in the living room.

I called gently, "Jonas, we're going back to visit the children this Saturday. Would you like to come along?"

Jonas looked up, his eyes sparkling. "Really? That's amazing! I've already prepared some things to give them!"

Seeing his excitement warmed my heart. Over the past few weeks, I had noticed a change in Jonas—he had become more cheerful and confident.

Saturday arrived quickly. With supplies ready, Jonas and I headed to the rural elementary school with Peyton and his interview team.

As soon as we stepped out of the car, several children came running up, shouting excitedly. "Mr. Joplin! Jonas! You're here!"

Jonas greeted them with a big smile and immediately began handing out the supplies and toys we brought.