Chapter 17 - An Unexpected Ally
The solution came from the most unlikely of places. On a rainy Tuesday afternoon, Maya’s assistant knocked on her office door, handing her a sleek business card.
"She doesn't have an appointment, but she said you might be willing to see her," the assistant whispered.
Maya looked at the embossed name: Claire Vance.
A few minutes later, Eleanor’s daughter stepped into the office. Claire was in her late thirties, dressed in a sharp beige trench coat, possessing her mother's sharp features but none of her icy hostility. She looked around the vibrant lab with genuine awe before taking a seat across from Maya.
"I know I'm the last person you probably want to see," Claire said, her voice steady but vulnerable. "But I’ve been following what you’re doing here. It’s incredible, Maya."
"Thank you, Claire. I appreciated your letter," Maya replied softly, keeping her guard up just a fraction.
Claire took a deep breath. "My mother’s assets were frozen during her trial, but I have my own independent trust. I know the old donors abandoned you when the foundation changed directions. I want to replace their funding. Anonymously."
May you like
Maya blinked, taken aback. "Claire, you’re talking about millions of dollars. You don't owe us a debt for your mother's actions."
"I’m not doing this out of guilt," Claire smiled warmly. "I'm doing this because for the first time in my life, I see the Sterling Foundation actually building something worthwhile. I want to be a part of it."
