Chapter 42

• In Mr. Wendell Carter’s study, the heavy oak door clicked softly behind Charlotte as she stood, her composure firm but her eyes reflecting the turmoil within. Wendell sat behind his massive desk, his gaze calm yet penetrating.
• Charlotte began, her voice steady but edged with urgency. “Please, call off this engagement.” She looked down briefly, collecting strength. “Howard will never change. He doesn’t love me. Living with him... it’ll be more painful than anything I’ve endured before. I can’t go through that again.”
• “I know everything, Charlotte,” Wendell said softly, his eyes reflecting a strange sadness. “Your soul has traveled back through time. I brought you here.”