Illustrator 2021 v25.0.1 compound path gradient not saving

[peteybrown]

i'm creating a multiple objects (pattern) gradient (blue to transparent) and am able to make it successfully. however, once i save and close the file then re-open it my pattern is filled with black. i lose the blue gradient and color. 

anyone have this happen to them or have suggestions? i did try to close and re-open illustrator to no avail 😞

[peteybrown]

[Monika Gause]

Which system is it?

What kind of gradient?

What kind of file do you save?

Did you already reboot the computer?

Does it work in a new file?

Does it work with a simple object?