Chapter 9 - THE NEW GALA
A year later,
the Bennett Gala returned.
The ballroom was once again filled with light and music.
But this time,
it was different.
I stood at the top of the stairs,
wearing a dress of midnight blue.
The Star of the North was around my neck,
glittering like a thousand stars.
The guests looked at me with respect,
not pity.
I had built the hospital wing.
I had expanded the foundation.
I had become the leader the Bennett name required.
I saw the gala chairwoman approach me,
a warm smile on her face.
"It's a beautiful night, Maya."
"Your mother would be proud."
"Thank you,"
I said,
feeling a peace I had never known.
I didn't look for Daniel in the crowd.
I didn't think about Celeste.
They were ghosts of a life I had outgrown.
I walked through the ballroom,
greeting friends and colleagues.
I stopped at the auction table,
where a new set of Bennett diamonds was being displayed.
This time,
the paddle in my hand was the only one that mattered.
I was the one who decided the value of things.
I was the one who set the price.
I looked at the Star of the North in the mirror.
It was more than just jewelry.
May you like
It was a reminder that some things are worth fighting for.
And that some people are never meant to be shared.
