---- Chapter 11 Online drama faded fast-new scandals always stole the spotlight. With support from strangers who actually had hearts, I got my act together and joined Astor Corp, my family's company. Started in sales, snatched a few major deals right out from under Busch Corp. They didn't say a word. Silence can be a pretty loud apology. With everything I'd been through, Dad promoted me to VP without blinking. Three years in, my name was everywhere-my success became legend. On the anniversary of Nadine's death, I brought her a bouquet made of her favorite snacks. ---- Sat down and talked to her for a while. That night, I dreamed of her. She could run now-the little girl I'd only known in memories. But I knew. It was Nadine. She ran into my arms, tiny hands cupping my face. "Mommy, I missed you so much! You look so skinny-have you been thinking about me too much? It's okay! Just send more snacks. If I eat enough, I'll grow faster and come back to see you!" We spent the whole dream eating and playing. When I woke up, I was smiling. Because I knew-when I truly feel happy again, she'll find her way back to me. sek In Nadine's name, I launched a charity for ---- orphans. Three years in, we'd reunited dozens of missing kids with their families and built shelters for the ones left behind. At a city awards ceremony, I was front row- calm, composed. Until chaos burst through the doors. Peggy. She hit the marble floor hard, knees first, the crack echoing through the hall. "Danielle, I'm begging you-just leave us alone! Gerard and I have a child now. Stop interfering in our lives!" Next to her stood a little girl. Silent. Frail. Covered in bruises and welts that didn't come