Nicole POV The lingering echoes of the music haven't quite faded as I glide out of Alex's embrace, all eyes in the room tracking me as I stride gracefully toward the stage. The spotlight lands on me, casting a glow over the confident, empathetic smile I've perfected for moments like this. "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your generosity and enthusiasm tonight," I say, my voice resonating with confidence and charisma, filling the room. "We've gathered for a noble cause—to ignite hope for those little angels overshadowed by illness." Captivating hearts with my speeches? Oh, that's my territory. Forget about dull numbers and mind-numbing stats—those just send people into a snooze fest. What do they really crave? Stories. The vivid, genuine ones that tug at your heartstrings. Clearing

