Chapter 24 - Nia Graduates
Nia graduated with honors.
Evelyn attended.
So did Nia’s mother, Patrice.
Malcolm stayed away from the family seating area until Nia explicitly invited him to the reception.
“You’re allowed.”
He smiled.
“Thank you.”
Patrice looked at Malcolm.
“So you’re the CEO.”
“Unfortunately.”
Nia groaned.
“He’s trying to be normal.”
Patrice laughed.
Evelyn hugged Nia.
“What next?”
“Forensic audit internship.”
“Where?”
“A regional accounting firm.”
“Not Meridian?”
Nia stared.
“No.”
Evelyn smiled.
“Good.”
Malcolm raised an eyebrow.
“You dislike my company?”
“I like her independence.”
Nia nodded.
Exactly.
She did not need to become part of the Cole empire to prove the foyer mattered.
The bravest thing she had done could remain one moment.
Her entire future did not need to belong to the family she defended.
That was healthier.
Before leaving, Evelyn handed her a small box.
Nia immediately said,
“No jewelry.”
Evelyn laughed.
“Open it.”
Inside was a simple silver pen.
Engraved:
WRITE WHAT HAPPENED.
Nia’s eyes filled.
“This is dangerously sentimental.”
“I’m old. I’m permitted.”
Nia hugged her.
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This time Evelyn accepted comfort she actually wanted.
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