Chapter 29

2023

Janelle slowly circled the venue's elegant great hall, checking the place settings, floral centerpieces, and flickering votives on each table. Everything looked perfect. Overhead, gold-and-crystal chandeliers sparkled with shimmering light that reflected off the corniced ceiling and paintings on the walls.

She shifted her gaze to the stage, where the podium and microphone waited for her to introduce the evening and welcome everyone to the gala. The large screen had been lowered in preparation to show the film.

Everything was ready ... except Jonas had not arrived, and the gala was due to start in forty-five minutes.

She pulled in a deep breath, trying to calm her fluttering stomach. The future of the museum hung in the balance tonight. If they were going to maintain their staff and continue offering programs and classes for vulnerable children and families, they had to strengthen their donor base. Amanda, the board of governors, and the staff were all counting on her.

And she was counting on Jonas.

After three days of silence, he'd finally responded to her texts and explained he'd had the flu. But those texts had been brief and businesslike. He'd said nothing about their relationship. When she'd asked about the film, he'd said he was putting the final touches on the project, and he'd see her at the gala. She wanted to trust him and believe what he said was true, but now that he was fifteen minutes late, the unsettled and anxious feelings were back.

She crossed toward the entrance, hoping to catch Jonas as soon as he arrived. Lisa and Olivia were stationed by the door to greet guests and hand out place cards. A few people had come early and gathered in small groups for conversation or were picking up a beverage at the drink station.

Olivia looked up as Janelle approached. She wore a cocktail-length teal dress and had put her hair up in an attractive style, with tendrils around her face. Rhinestone earrings dangled from her ears, making her look older than sixteen.

Janelle sent her a warm smile. "You look very pretty, Olivia."

"Thanks. Lisa fixed my hair." She sent her friend a grateful look.

Lisa grinned and patted Olivia's back. "I told her a dress like that deserves a special hairstyle." Lisa wore a bright pink ruffled top, a pink-and-orange flowered skirt, and large gold hoop earrings. She'd taken out her usual crown of braids and let her wavy blond hair flow over her shoulders.

Maggie and Dan walked in and greeted Janelle. Olivia handed them their place cards. "You're sitting at table number three, with Lisa and me." She pointed to the table in the center of the first row. "Janelle and Jonas are sitting with us too."

Janelle swallowed. If Jonas showed up.

"Thanks." Dan studied Olivia for a moment. "Your hair looks nice."

Olivia brushed her hair from her eyes. "Thanks, Dad."

Maggie turned to Janelle. "You look great too. Royal blue is your color!" She glanced around the room. "Wow, this is a beautiful venue."

Janelle nodded as her gaze darted from Maggie to the door. If only Jonas would arrive and put her worries to rest.

Maggie stepped closer. "Is everything okay?"

"Jonas isn't here yet," Janelle whispered.

Maggie's eyebrows shot up. "Where is he?"

"I don't know. He was supposed to be here at six to set up the film."

Maggie glanced at her watch. "He's only a few minutes late. I wouldn't worry—at least not yet."

"What am I going to do if he doesn't come?"

Maggie shook her head. "Jonas is not going to leave you high and dry. Have a little faith!"

Janelle pulled in a shuddering breath and let Maggie's words sink in. She needed to believe the best about Jonas, not jump to conclusions. He said he'd be here. She would choose to hold on to that.

"Why don't you text him and see what's going on?"

Janelle nodded and glanced at the table where she'd left her handbag and phone. Just then, Howie and Lauren walked in. Janelle made a beeline for them. "Howie, have you heard from Jonas? I asked him to be here by six to get the film ready before the guests arrive."

Howie frowned and glanced toward the door. "I talked to him about an hour ago. He should be here soon."

She sensed there was more he wasn't telling her. "Howie, is everything okay with the film?"

Howie pulled in a deep breath. "I don't want you to worry, but there was a slight hitch."

Janelle's eyes widened. "What kind of hitch?"

"The narrator didn't finish his work, and we had to send the film to the guy who scores the music to give him time to record his part ... so Jonas is finishing the narration."

Janelle stared at Howie, trying to process his words. "What?"

"Everything is going to be fine. Jonas knows what he's doing." Howie gave a confident nod. "I'm sure he'll be here by seven." He took Lauren's hand and headed toward the drink station.

A dizzy wave flowed through Janelle as she watched them walk away. Please, Lord, have mercy on us. Help Jonas finish and get here soon.

Maggie returned to Janelle's side. "What's going on?"

"Jonas had an issue with the film, and he had to finish the narration himself."

"Well..." Maggie blinked rapidly, obviously trying to think of something positive to say. "He does have a great voice."

Dan joined them, and Maggie hooked her arm through his. "Come on, honey. We need to give Janelle a moment."

Dan sent his wife a confused look as they started toward their table.

Several more guests entered, including Amanda and Wesley. Janelle forced a smile and greeted them.

Amanda scanned the room. "Everything looks good."

Janelle nodded. "The event coordinator has been very accommodating. She arranged everything just as I asked."

"How about the program? Are we all set to show the film?"

Janelle hesitated, debating her answer. It was time to exercise her faith—in the Lord and in Jonas. She nodded. "We'll be ready."

Wesley approached. "Nice to see you, Janelle. It looks like you've got everything under control." He smiled. "You know, it's been hard for Amanda to step back and let go of things at the museum, but it's clear you've handled those responsibilities well."

Janelle's cheeks warmed. "Thanks. Taking on Amanda's role has been a real learning experience. I know everyone will be happy to have her back when she's ready."

Wesley and Amanda exchanged a glance, and Amanda turned to Janelle. "That's something I want to discuss with you."

Did Amanda want to talk about the date of her return, or was she hinting that she wasn't coming back to work at the museum? "Of course. Whenever you're ready."

Amanda took Wesley's arm. "We'll talk more later. I see some of our key donors. I want to make the rounds." They turned to an older couple who had just picked up their place cards.

The next half hour passed quickly as she greeted guests and then touched base with Sydney, the event coordinator, about one guest's special request for their meal. She returned to the entrance and glanced at her watch. Ten minutes to seven. Where was Jonas?

Sydney strode across the room toward her. "The tech crew has the background slides ready, but they're wondering about the film you want to show after dinner. They need a link to the film file or a portable drive. Do you have either of those?"

Janelle's mind spun, and her tongue stuck to the roof of her mouth. What should she say? Movement to the left caught her eye.

Jonas hustled through the door and headed straight toward her.

Relief poured through Janelle. "The man overseeing the film just arrived."

"Great. He can speak to our team in the sound booth, and they can set it up during dinner."

"Thanks."

Sydney strode away as Jonas approached. The concern and sincerity in his expression flew straight to her heart, and she reached for him. "Jonas."

He pulled her in for a hug. "I'm sorry I'm late."

She swallowed past her tight throat and nodded. "I'm just glad you're here."

"Me too. What a week! I've missed you so much."

Janelle's heart swelled, and relief rushed through her. "I've missed you too." She stepped back. "Now, come with me. We've got to talk to the tech guys and get everything set up for the film." She walked across the room, and he matched her quick pace.

They entered the sound booth, and Jonas handed over the SSD portable drive and thanked the two men handling the lights, sound, and video. Then he and Janelle crossed to their table and took a seat.

The lights came down, and Janelle leaned toward Jonas. "That's my cue." She rose, stepped up on the stage, and walked to the podium. "Good evening, and welcome to the Foundling Museum's Annual Gala. We're delighted you could be with us tonight. My name is Janelle Spencer. I am the acting director of the museum while Amanda Preston, our executive director, is enjoying time with her twin daughters during their first few months of life."

The audience clapped politely.

"Tonight, we hope to give you a clear and inspiring picture of the Foundling Museum's past, our present, and what we hope to accomplish in the future. We invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the delicious meal that has been prepared for you. After dinner, we have a very special presentation that I know you'll enjoy." She motioned for Pastor Brown to come on stage. "I've asked Pastor Scott Brown from St. Mark's to offer a blessing before we enjoy our meal." She noted the flash of surprise on Amanda's face and quickly shifted her gaze to Jonas, who sent her an approving nod.

Pastor Scott mounted the steps and invited everyone to join him in prayer.

Janelle bowed her head and slowly pulled in a deep breath as she listened. The pastor's sincere tone and kind words soothed her jumbled emotions. Pastor Brown finished his prayer, and he and Janelle returned to their seats. The waiters appeared, carrying trays, and began serving the guests.

Laughter rose from the next table, where Amanda and Wesley were seated with some of the museum's top donors. Janelle and Jonas exchanged a smile. The efficient service and contented guests eased the tension in Janelle's shoulders. Now, if only the film and Amanda's appeal would result in a new wave of generous donations, Janelle could go home and sleep soundly for at least twelve hours.

The waiter lowered a full dinner plate in front of her, then served Jonas.

Jonas glanced her way. "You're eyeing my dinner. Did you want to try something?"

She laughed softly. "No, I was just checking to be sure they're serving what we agreed on."

He took a bite. "I don't know if it's what you asked for, but it tastes great."

She smiled. "Glad you like it."

Pleasant conversation continued around their table for the next half hour while everyone enjoyed their dinner. The waiters returned and cleared their plates. Then they served coffee and tea and offered a choice of puddings.

Sydney approached and leaned down between Janelle and Jonas. "There seems to be a problem with the film file on the portable drive."

Janelle's stomach dropped, and she shot a glance at Jonas.

"Don't worry. I'll take care of it." He rose and followed Sydney to the back of the room.

Janelle closed her eyes. Please, Lord. No other words would come. Her emotions had been on such a roller coaster. Her stomach knotted, and she pushed away her half-eaten lemon tart.

The waiters cleared the dessert plates. She glanced at her watch. It was time for her to return to the stage and introduce the film. Her gaze darted to the closed door of the sound booth. Where was Jonas? What was happening? Should she stay seated and wait for him to return or...

She glanced across the table at Maggie, caught her friend's eye, and mouthed the word pray .

Maggie's eyes flashed. She nodded and gripped Dan's hand. He turned to his wife with a questioning look.

The lights came down, and the spotlight shone on the podium. Janelle pulled in a sharp breath, then she slowly rose and climbed the steps to the stage.

Forcing strength into her voice, she looked out over the audience. "Tonight, we want to take you on a journey to share the Foundling Hospital's rich history, then shine a light on our present work and what we dream of doing in the future. We hope you'll enjoy this inspiring film created for us by Jonas Conrad and the team at Vision Impact Films."

Janelle stepped away from the podium. As soon as she reached her seat, the spotlight switched off, and the room was plunged into darkness. Her heartbeat pounded in her ears, and her hands and arms tingled.

Soft music began to play, the screen came to life, and the image of an infant wrapped in a blanket and held in a woman's arms came into focus. Jonas's voice rose above the music.

"She was only three months old the day her life changed forever—the day her mother surrendered her into the care of the Foundling Hospital. She was one of the twenty-five thousand children who was given an opportunity for a better life and a future."

As the film continued, highlighting the museum's history and impact, hot tears flooded Janelle's eyes. The images were beautiful, and the narration and music added just what was needed to make the story come alive. Jonas had done it—he'd taken everything he'd learned and crafted it into a film that showed all she loved about the museum's past and present. She brushed a tear from her cheek and sent off a prayer of thanks.

Jonas leaned back in the sound booth chair and pinched the bridge of his nose, fighting off the flood of emotion washing over him. After almost three months of intense researching, writing, and filming, and then countless hours editing, revising, and narrating, the film was finally rolling for the intended audience.

His thoughts shifted back through the last few weeks and the race to complete the project before the deadline. The schedule had already been tight, and then he'd been knocked out with a bad case of the flu for several days. He'd been so ill, he hadn't checked with the narrator until last Wednesday.

The narrator's lame excuse for not being able to complete his work had angered Jonas. After a few desperate calls to Howie and prayers for direction, the answer became clear. The only way to finish the film on time was to narrate it himself.

Though he was still feeling the effects of the flu, he practiced and ran through the narration several times while working with Ben on the music. Scene by scene, they fit the words and music together. With only ninety minutes before the gala was set to begin, they'd finished the last scene. He'd been so relieved he nearly lost it. But there was no time for that. He jumped in the shower, changed into his best suit, and hailed a taxi to drive him to the venue.

Jonas released a deep breath. Thank you, Lord. I never could've done this without your help and guidance. Please use this film as you intended and let it help the museum continue their important work. Show Janelle I 'm a man of my word, a man she can trust and love.

The technician seated next to him glanced his way. "Hey, don't worry. Everything's good."

Jonas swallowed. "Yeah, thanks."

"No problem." The technician settled back in his chair, crossed his arms, and watched the film play on the big screen while the other man raised the sound just a bit.

Jonas's gaze traveled past the window and through the crowd until he found Janelle. Her back was to him, but he could tell she was focused on the screen, taking in the film along with the rest of the audience. They had no idea how hard he'd worked on this project or how tough it had been to convey the message he wanted to portray, but Janelle knew. She understood. And that made it all worthwhile.

He wished he could join her and see her reaction as the film showed the museum's exhibits, programs, and kids who took part in the programs. But he didn't want to distract her or anyone else by walking in at this point. He would wait and let the film tell the story that had come through his heart, mind, and camera.

Fifteen minutes later, Janelle watched the closing scenes of the film through misty eyes. Happy children holding up their finished art projects filled the screen and brought a smile to her lips. Memories of her own experiences, and the pride and confidence she'd gained attending those classes and meeting other children in care, came to her mind. The Lord had used those museum programs to teach her much more than how to mix colors, follow directions, and create unique designs. In the company of those friends, she'd sensed she was not alone or abandoned. She was unique and talented, with gifts she could share.

That solid truth had settled in her heart, and though her birth parents had not been able to care for her, others had stepped up to meet her need for love and belonging. The Lord had taken care of her. She was blessed.

The music rose, and a beautiful sunset appeared on the screen, along with the words: The mission of the Foundling Museum is to continue to tell the story of the UK's first children's charity and its first public art gallery—the outcome of a centuries-old project designed to care for and educate London's most vulnerable citizens. We ask you to partner with us in this worthy cause by supporting the ongoing work of the Foundling Museum. Thank you.

The credits rolled with the names of those who had been interviewed and acted in the film. The final image showed the logo of the museum next to the Vision Impact Films' logo.

Janelle's smile spread wider, and her heart felt like it would burst with love and gratitude for Jonas and the creativity, skill, and heart he had poured into the film.

The lights came up, and the audience applauded. Wesley rose to his feet, and others soon stood and joined him, expressing their enthusiastic approval.

Janelle rose and glanced to the left as Jonas strode forward and appeared at her side. She sent him a tearful smile and gave him a quick side-hug while the applause continued. "The film was amazing! Thank you!"

He released her, grinning and looking at a loss for words.

The audience settled back in their chairs, and Amanda took the stage. She sniffed and touched her nose with a tissue. "Well ... that was my first time seeing the film, and I'm so impressed.

"I want to thank Janelle Spencer and all the museum staff for planning this wonderful event and for carrying on the work of the museum while I've been at the hospital with my twin daughters. They were born two months early, and we're grateful to say, after some challenges, they're doing very well and due to come home soon."

The audience clapped, and Amanda smiled her appreciation. She shifted her gaze to Jonas. "Our special thanks go to Jonas Conrad of Vision Impact Films for creating such a powerful film to portray the vital mission of the Foundling Museum."

Janelle squeezed Jonas's hand, and he returned the gesture.

Amanda continued, "At the museum, we are committed to inspiring and educating visitors, as well as serving vulnerable children, young adults, and their caregivers who take part in our programs and events. As you saw in the film, those programs strengthen and enrich the lives of all those who participate. Many of these children have grown up in care and need the connection and support provided through our many classes and programs. So, tonight, we ask you to partner with us to honor the history of the Foundling Hospital and give generously so we can continue the important work of the Foundling Museum.

"You'll find contribution cards and envelopes in the center of your table. You may fill them out now and leave them on the table, or you can give online through the link on the screen." She motioned over her shoulder toward the final slide. "One-time gifts and monthly donations are both welcome and appreciated. Thank you for joining us tonight, and thank you for your interest in and generous support of the Foundling Museum. Good night."

Janelle and Jonas spent the next thirty minutes speaking to guests and thanking them for coming. Several people shook Jonas's hand and praised the film. A few gave him their business cards and asked for more information. Janelle was thrilled Jonas had made contacts that could lead to future film projects.

The crowd thinned, and Maggie, Dan, Olivia, and Lisa collected the donation cards and envelopes that had been left by the guests.

Janelle turned to Jonas. "I need to take down the display."

"I'll give you a hand."

They crossed to the side of the room, where several photos from the museum's exhibits had been arranged on a long, cloth- covered table. Mary Alice's book and token sat in the middle, surrounded by other tokens and artifacts.

A delightful shiver of anticipation traveled through Janelle as she thought of the documentary Jonas planned to make. After seeing tonight's film, she felt confident he was the right one to tell Mary Alice's story. He would handle it with honesty and sensitivity that would honor her life and support their work at the museum.

Janelle picked up the token and gently ran her finger over the words Remember My Love . That phrase had taken on a deeper meaning as she'd worked on this project with Jonas. Mary Alice's mother, aunt, and uncle had demonstrated their love and commitment by never giving up their search for Mary Alice until she'd been rescued and brought safely home. Their example had made a deep impression on Janelle. She would take that lesson to heart, seek to keep her commitments and treasure those she loved.

Jonas stepped up beside her. "What are you thinking?"

She held the token out to him. "This token represents the bond of love between Mary Alice and her mother ... and so much more."

He gave a thoughtful nod.

"After all we've learned about Mary Alice and her family, I feel like I know them. I'm so glad we're going to tell her story. Children are not for sale. They need to be protected and cared for in loving families."

He took her hand. "Tonight's film gave the big picture, but there's so much more to tell. People need to know what happened to Mary Alice is still happening to countless other children today." His earnest gaze met hers. "You can show them through a new exhibit, and I'll tell them through a documentary."

She nodded, love for him warming her heart. "I'd say we've got our work cut out for us."

He grinned. "You're right about that."

She added the token, book, and other artifacts to the case and closed the lid.

Maggie and Dan approached and handed Janelle a stack of envelopes. Maggie gave Janelle a hug. "I'd say the evening was a wonderful success."

"Yes, and I'm so relieved."

Jonas touched Janelle's arm. "I'm going to get the film drive from the tech crew." He and Dan walked toward the sound booth.

Maggie's eyes twinkled, and she leaned closer. "Jonas did an amazing job on that film."

Gratitude washed over her again. "Yes. It was wonderful."

Maggie grinned. "See, I told you he'd come through for you. All you needed was a little faith."

Janelle's heart lifted. "You're right."

Jonas returned to Janelle's side and slipped his arm around her waist.

Maggie glanced between Jonas and Janelle. "Do you want a ride home?"

Before Janelle could answer, Jonas said, "I'll see that she gets home safe." He looked her way. "If that's okay with you."

She smiled. "It is. Thanks."

Lisa and Olivia joined them, and Janelle turned to Olivia. "Thank you for your help tonight and with the film."

"It was fun." Olivia hesitated a moment, then met Janelle's gaze. "School starts next week, so I'm going back to my mom's tomorrow. Do you think if I come back next summer, I could be an intern?"

Lisa's eyes lit up. "That's a great idea!"

"You usually need to be eighteen," Janelle said, "but since you volunteered this summer and did such a great job, we might be able to make an exception. Stay in touch, and you can fill out the application after the first of the year."

Olivia smiled and nodded. "Thanks. I will."

Janelle gave her a hug. "Take care. I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too."

Dan, Maggie, Olivia, and Lisa said good night and walked out the door.

Jonas turned to Janelle. "There's a great view of the city from the balcony. Want to take a look?"

Her heartbeat fluttered, and she nodded. "I'd love that."

He took her hand as they walked upstairs and stepped out on the balcony. The twinkling lights of the city spread out before them. In the distance, she could see the illuminated clockface of Big Ben and the lights on the London Eye. A cool breeze carrying a hint of autumn ruffled her dress. Jonas slipped his arm around her shoulders, and she leaned into his side.

"It's beautiful," she said softly.

"Yes, it is." He was quiet for moment, then said, "Janelle ... I'm sorry these last couple of weeks have been so crazy. Trying to finish the film and then catching the flu really threw me for a loop. But I know I should've made more of an effort to stay in touch."

"I was worried about you ... and about us."

He released a deep breath. "I could kick myself now. I really need to learn some better communication skills."

She looked up at him. "Let's learn them together."

He leaned down and kissed her cheek. "I like the sound of that."

"So ... even though we're done with the film ... you still want to spend time together?"

He pulled back with a stunned look. "Yes, of course. Now that I've found you, I'm not letting you go."

Her heart lifted. "Really? That's how you feel?"

He turned and took both of her hands in his. "Janelle, you are a beautiful, caring, smart, and amazing woman, and I want to spend more time with you and give our relationship time to grow."

A warm glow of happiness wrapped around her. "I'd like that too."

He leaned closer. She tilted her face up, breathing in the clean, spicy scent that was Jonas, and kissed him. That kiss carried her away in a whirl of hope and pleasure. Jonas Conrad was the man she had been waiting for—not a perfect man, but the perfect man for her.

A joyful prayer of thanks rose from her heart. Together they would chase after all the dreams the Lord gave them and see where the journey would take them ... and she would always treasure and remember their love.