Chapter 39

• Charlotte turned, startled, and found Mr. Wendell standing near the grand staircase. His eyes were fixed gently on her, a faint smile softening his expression.
• She hadn’t planned to stay, but she couldn’t bring herself to upset him—not on his birthday. So she drew a careful breath and walked toward him.
• When she reached him, she smiled politely and held out the bouquet. “Happy birthday, Mr. Carter." She gave him the bouquet.