Chapter 10 - The Grand Gala
Two years after the wedding incident.
The grand opening gala of the Eleanor Whitaker Rehabilitation Center was the event of the decade.
The former St. Aurelia Hotel had been completely rebuilt into a breathtaking, sunlit facility filled with indoor gardens, state-of-the-art robotic therapy suites, and warm, welcoming spaces for recovering patients and their families.
Hundreds of guests—distinguished doctors, cured former patients, philanthropic leaders, and true friends—filled the grand atrium.
I stood near the entrance in a stunning, floor-length deep blue gown, my arm linked with my husband, Dr. Marcus Vance.
Harrison stood beside us, holding a glass of sparkling water, looking happier and more relaxed than I had ever seen him.
A young woman in a wheelchair—a former patient who had recently regained movement in her hands—approached us, her eyes shining with joy.
“Mrs. Vance,” the young woman said warmly. “Thank you. Because of your center, I’m going to walk across the stage at my college graduation next month.”
I dropped to one knee in front of her, taking her hands in mine. “You did the hard work, sweetheart. Never let anyone tell you that your body defines your power.”
The young woman hugged me tightly, tears of gratitude in her eyes.
When I stood back up, Marcus wrapped his arm around my waist, kissing my temple gently.
May you like
“Ready to make your speech, my love?” Marcus asked.
“Always,” I smiled.
