"And make money?"
"Yes."
"And buy my mama a real house so she doesn't ever have to clean floors again?"
Lena felt her throat close up instantly. Charles did not offer a polite smile when he answered.
"Yes," he said.
Annie nodded once, as if confirming a private, long-term plan. Then, she walked back to the circle and climbed back onto her chair.
---
Mercer leaned forward, shifting the file. "There is another variable we must address now, before it creates a logistical problem down the line."
Lena looked at him. "What, the press?"
"The media and the foundation's donor board," Mercer clarified.
Charles's jaw tightened slightly. "Victor is already attempting to manage the situation."
Lena frowned. "Manage what?"
"The narrative," Charles said, his voice tightening. "The board wants to frame this as a traditional corporate charity narrative—a heartwarming story about a billionaire rescuing a poor child from the service doors. It looks excellent on a brochure."