Mr.Brightside

chapter 125

A New Ally

The days following the community meeting were a whirlwind of activity. Clara spent most of her time coordinating logistics and following up with those who had expressed interest in helping. Jack, meanwhile, took charge of outreach, speaking with organizations and influential individuals who might lend their support.

It was during one such outreach call that he found himself standing outside the Council House, pacing the brick pathway as his phone buzzed in his hand. He had managed to secure a meeting with someone whose support could be a game-changer: Eleanor Fitzgerald, a philanthropist and former resident of the town.

Eleanor was well-known for her generosity but also for her exacting standards. If she believed in a cause, she would throw her weight behind it. If not, she wouldn't hesitate to walk away.

"I'm meeting with her this afternoon," Jack told Clara when he returned inside.

Clara looked up from her desk, her brow furrowed. "Eleanor Fitzgerald? That's huge, Jack. Do you think she'll go for it?"

Jack shrugged, though his expression was thoughtful. "Hard to say. She's sharp, and she'll ask the tough questions. But if I can get her to visit the Council House and see the impact it has, I think we have a shot."

Clara nodded. "No pressure," she said with a wry smile.

"None at all," Jack replied, smirking.

That afternoon, Jack met Eleanor at her estate on the outskirts of town. The house was a grand, ivy-covered structure that spoke to her wealth, but Eleanor herself was refreshingly unpretentious. She greeted him warmly, dressed in a simple cardigan and slacks, and led him to a cozy sitting room.

"So, Mr. Donovan," she began, sitting across from him, "why should I care about the Council House?"

Jack had anticipated the question, but it still caught him slightly off guard in its bluntness. He took a moment to collect his thoughts before answering.

"Because it's more than just a building," he said. "The Council House is a place where history lives. It's where people connect with their roots, where stories are told, and where the community comes together. Without it, we lose part of who we are."

Eleanor raised an eyebrow, but there was a glimmer of interest in her expression. "I've heard speeches like this before," she said. "What makes this project different?"

Jack leaned forward slightly. "This isn't just about preserving the past—it's about building a future. We're not asking for charity. We're asking for an investment in something that will continue to serve this community for decades to come."

Eleanor studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly. "You make a compelling case. But I'm not easily swayed by words alone. I'll need to see this Council House for myself."

The next morning, Eleanor arrived at the Council House for a tour. Clara met her at the door, her usual calm demeanor tinged with nervous energy. Jack was by her side, ready to help with anything she needed.

"Ms. Fitzgerald, thank you for coming," Clara said, extending a hand.

"Please, call me Eleanor," the older woman replied, shaking Clara's hand firmly. "Now, show me why you think this place is worth saving."

Clara led Eleanor through the building, starting with the main hall. She spoke passionately about its history, pointing out architectural details and sharing anecdotes about the events that had taken place there.

Eleanor listened intently, occasionally asking pointed questions. When they reached the parts of the building in disrepair, Clara didn't shy away from the reality.

"This is what we're up against," she said, gesturing to a cracked wall. "But it's nothing that can't be fixed with the right resources and a lot of determination."

Eleanor nodded, her expression unreadable.

After the tour, the three of them sat down in the office to discuss next steps.

"I'll be honest," Eleanor began, folding her hands neatly on the desk. "I didn't expect to be impressed. But seeing the Council House in person and hearing your vision has changed my perspective."

Clara and Jack exchanged a hopeful glance but remained silent, waiting for her to continue.

"I'll make a donation to help with the initial repairs," Eleanor said, a small smile playing on her lips. "And I'll connect you with some contacts who might be able to offer additional support. But I have one condition."

"Name it," Clara said immediately.

"I want to see a detailed plan for how you'll sustain the Council House after the fundraiser," Eleanor said. "I believe in what you're doing, but I want to ensure it's viable in the long term."

"That's fair," Clara said. "We'll put together a proposal and send it to you as soon as possible."

Eleanor nodded, rising to her feet. "Good. I'll look forward to it. In the meantime, I'll get started on my end."

After Eleanor left, Clara and Jack sat in silence for a moment, processing what had just happened.

"She's in," Clara said finally, her voice filled with a mix of disbelief and excitement.

"She's in," Jack echoed, grinning.

It was a major victory, but they both knew the work was far from over. Still, for the first time in weeks, it felt like the odds might finally be tipping in their favor.

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