Lena's POV
Not just any gala. A celebration of resilience, innovation, and unity. A chance to remind the world and ourselves who we are.
The idea felt like a spark in the darkness, and for the first time in weeks, I felt hopeful. I'd need Elias to help shape it, to get the board's approval, and to pull the resources together. But I believed in this.
I believed it could work.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The next morning, I found Elias in his office. He was standing by the window, staring out at the city with a cup of coffee in hand. The dark circles under his eyes told me he hadn't been sleeping much either.
"Got a minute?" I asked, stepping inside without waiting for an answer.
He turned to me, a small smile tugging at his lips.
"For you? Always." I said.
I closed the door behind me and crossed the room.
