Eighty-Seven

Athena

Two big things were happening, and for once, I felt like I could finally catch my breath. Today, I launched my NGO, Rainbow Heaven, cutting the ribbon on a little stand that marked its official opening.

Applause echoed around me, and I blinked back tears, moved by the outpouring of support from my family and friends. They’d donated generously, and the tables overflowed with small tokens for the kids.

Every family member was hands-on, including my dad, who was over at the kids' painting station, helping them pick designs and encouraging them to splash colours everywhere.

This was the start of something huge: an NGO dedicated to empowering special kids, especially those society had labeled as "odd."

I felt a deep pride swell in me, knowing exactly how it felt to stand out, to feel misunderstood. Today was even more special because it was Stella’s birthday—my adopted daughter, now ten. The launch became a double celebration in her honour.

“You’re such an angel,” Mia said, wrapp