19

"It was the last tangible connection to Mom," Elena murmured, her voice barely audible amidst the heavy atmosphere of despair.

"No, Elena. The true legacy of your mother lives on through you. That's why I fought to shield you," Gordon reassured her.

Elena's tears cascaded down her cheeks like a silent river, each droplet a poignant testament to the profound anguish that gripped her soul. In the somber silence of the moment, the weight of her father's words settled heavily upon her, sinking deep into the recesses of her heart.

The revelation of their dire financial situation struck her like a thunderbolt, shattering the fragile illusion of security she had clung to. And amidst the heaviness of it all, Elena couldn't help but feel a profound sense of loss — not just the company had been sold, but also hopes.

"But the bitter reality is that we're destitute, my love. I've had to slash every expense, and even Kesha and Felicia departed. And worst of all, I had to halt my treatment," Gordo