Chapter 2: A Promise Kept

Grace almost refused.

She had spent her entire life avoiding powerful people.

But the next morning she received a phone call from Saint Catherine's Medical Center.

Her mother's surgery had been canceled.

Insurance refused to pay.

Grace rushed to the hospital.

She found the hospital director waiting outside Ellen Miller's room.

"We've received an anonymous donation."

Grace blinked.

"What donation?"

"The entire balance."

She stared in disbelief.

"The surgery..."

"Has already been scheduled."

Her knees nearly gave way.

When she entered the room, Ellen smiled weakly.

"Did something good happen?"

Grace forced herself not to cry.

"I think... someone gave us another chance."

That afternoon she arrived at Dominic DeLuca's headquarters.

She expected marble halls filled with armed guards.

Instead she found an elegant office overlooking Lake Michigan.

Dominic stood by the window.

"I didn't pay your mother's bills to buy your loyalty."

Grace looked confused.

"Then why?"

"Because kindness shouldn't be punished."

He handed her a folder.

Inside were photographs.

Vivian Whitmore.

Several city officials.

Financial records.

Bribery.

Illegal property seizures.

Hospital acquisitions.

"The charity gala wasn't about charity," Dominic said.

"It was about influence."

"You want me to testify?"

"No."

"I want someone honest."

Grace frowned.

"What can I possibly do?"

Dominic smiled for the first time.

"My mother needs someone she trusts."

Margaret entered the office in her wheelchair.

"I'd like you to work as my personal assistant."

Grace looked at the older woman.

"You barely know me."

Margaret reached for her hand.

"I know enough."

For the first time in years...

Grace believed life might finally be changing.