“That sounds less romantic than I hoped.”

“It’s more honest.”

The foundation’s public opening took place in a restored library overlooking Bryant Park. Doctors, business leaders, community workers, and former employees of Adrian’s companies filled the hall.

Reporters gathered near the platform, eager to ask how a man once tied to New York’s underworld had become one of the city’s largest private investors in maternal care.

Adrian delivered a brief speech about responsibility, grief, and the difference between saving someone and giving them the tools to save themselves. Then he left the podium.

Hannah stood near the front holding one-year-old Lucas. She expected Adrian to return to his seat. Instead, he walked toward her. The room went quiet.