Chapter 30

Two years ago, it had been her idea to get more actively involved in a charity for his image. What she probably hadn't known was he'd already been playing with the idea, and it was her history, his connection to her, that had launched the entire thing. He hadn't been able to help those she'd loved before it was too late, but he could do something for others in similar situations. She'd been, and still was, the heart behind the project.

"That's amazing." Daniel made a few notes. "Miss Smoke, you do quite a bit for the charity as well, correct?"

"From a marketing standpoint." She smoothed her skirt. "It's a cause close to my heart, regardless."

Which was bull. She could name every single veteran on their list, along with their spouses and children, and not because of her excellent memory. Peyton gave a shit, even though she'd had all but no one to do the same for her in return. Once again, she was minimizing her role and importance.

Daniel nodded. "You started at Gaines Industries al