“You survived,” Dante said. “You know what people in this city actually need.”

I touched the embossed gold letters on the folder.

“We will fund women’s shelters and job placement programs,” Dante said. “No more shadows.”

“And what will you do?” I asked.

“I will manage our private investments,” Dante said. “And I will watch Lily grow up.”

He stood up and walked over to Lily, who was sitting on the rug.

He knelt down and handed her a wooden block.

She laughed and grabbed his finger with her small hand.

He did not pull away.

***

My new office was on the top floor of a renovated building in River North.

It had large windows that let in the afternoon sun.

I sat at a mahogany desk, reviewing the budget for our first shelter in Cicero.

My assistant, Clara, knocked on the open door.

“The construction permits for the shelter have been approved,” Clara said.

“That is wonderful, Clara,” I said, smiling. “Thank you.”

I looked out the window at the Chicago River.

A year ago, I was dancing under neon lights, wondering if I could buy formula.