Chapter 18 - THE NEW FOUNDATION
The following morning,
specialized art handlers arrived at the mansion to take down the six-foot canvas photograph above the fireplace.
They carefully unhooked the heavy frame and carried it out through the front doors,
loading it into a disposal truck.
The space above the mantelpiece was left bare,
waiting for something meaningful to take its place.
I walked into my study,
packing my final personal items into a sleek leather briefcase.
My original architectural portfolio from Chicago rested neatly on top of my desk,
glowing under the desk lamp.
My phone buzzed with an email notification from Horizon Architecture.
*Flight confirmed: Boston to Chicago,
Friday morning,
First Class.
*
*We are thrilled to welcome you back as lead design partner for the Millennium Plaza project.
*
I smiled,
closing the briefcase with a satisfying click.
Arthur walked into the study,
leaning on his cane,
looking remarkably peaceful.
“The Boston Architectural College officially accepted the deed to this house this morning,
” Arthur informed me gently.
“They are converting it into a scholarship center for aspiring female architects.
”
“Named the Harding-Sterling Center.
”
I looked up at him in genuine surprise,
my eyes shining with unshed tears of gratitude.
“You didn't have to do that,
Arthur.
”
“I wanted to,
” Arthur insisted,
placing a warm hand on my shoulder.
“A great building deserves a great foundation.
”
“And you gave this family a future when we were standing on sinking sand.
”
“Thank you,
Arthur,
” I whispered,
hugging him tightly.
May you like
“For everything.
”
