Chapter 11: Breaking Ground
Six months later, the cold gray skies had given way to bright spring sunlight. The rusted iron foundry was gone, replaced by the framework of a new community complex—a center for vocational training, youth programs, and affordable housing.
Jax stood near a pile of oak timber, wearing work gloves and a simple flannel shirt. He worked alongside local carpenters, his long dark hair tied back, his broad shoulders moving with steady, purpose-driven rhythm.
A black sedan pulled up near the perimeter fence. Victoria stepped out, holding a set of rolled architectural blueprints. She walked over to where Jax was working.
"The second phase was approved by the council this morning," Victoria said, smiling faintly as she unrolled the plans on a wooden sawhorse. "We break ground on the clinic next month."
Jax wiped sweat from his forehead with the back of his arm, looking over the drawings. "The kid's going to like the park area."
May you like
"He already picked out where the oak tree goes," Victoria replied softly. She looked at Jax, her eyes warm. "You look lighter, Jax."
"Hard work cures a lot of old regrets," Jax said, looking out over the construction site. "For the first time in thirty years, I sleep through the night."
