Chapter 8 - The Bond of Blood
In the aftermath of the crisis, our bond with the Volkov family grew unbreakable.
Mikhail officially named me as Misha's legal godsister and guardian in the event of any future tragedy. Grandma Rose was provided with a team of private chefs and assistants for the diner, though she stubbornly insisted on baking the apple pies herself every morning.
When I turned eighteen, I graduated at the top of my high school class.
On the night of my graduation party at the estate, Mikhail presented me with a small velvet box.
Inside lay a gold key and a heavy wax-sealed document.
"What is this, Mr. Volkov?" I asked, looking up at him.
"Ten years ago, you gave my son your last meal without asking for anything in return," Mikhail said warmly. "Today, you graduate with honors, ready to enter university to study business and law."
He gestured to the document.
"This is the deed to the Volkov Foundations—a non-profit trust worth fifty million dollars dedicated to protecting abused and underprivileged children across Illinois. As of today, you are the Chief Executive Officer."
I stared at him in disbelief. "Me? But... I'm only eighteen!"
"You have more courage, integrity, and heart than any executive in this country," Mikhail said proudly, placing his large hand on my shoulder. "You saved my family twice, Maya. Now, I am giving you the tools to save thousands more."
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Misha walked over, wrapping his arms around my waist just like he used to when he was eight. "Congratulations, big sister!"
Tears of joy blurred my vision as I pulled them both into a tight hug.
