Chapter 32

• Exiting the stately confines of Whitmore's Law Firm, Valerie felt an odd melange of turbulent emotions swirling within her breast. The swell of profound gratitude at having her beloved grandfather's eternal devotion laid bare was thoroughly leavened by the lingering ache of realizing just how much soul-rending inner turmoil the proud patriarch must have endured to shield her from his harsh realities.
• As she traversed the bustling city sidewalks to get a cab, Valerie found herself instinctively clutching the priceless treasure trove of letters and photographs closer against her pounding heart. Their delicate, aged weight seemed to anchor her buffeting emotions, reminding her of the singular purpose that must take precedence above all else now.
• She would honor the Ashford family legacy – her grandfather's immortal life's work – with every fiber of her newly invigorated being. No longer would she cast doubts about her own worthiness to steer the family empire into its newest epoch. Henry's undying paternal allegiance was bound to her spirit now, bolstering her with its eternal grace and grit.