Chapter 39

• The Monday morning sun crept into Charlotte’s studio, casting warm beams through the expansive windows. This was her sanctuary, filled with vibrant pieces of her art that spoke of creativity, sorrow, joy, and growth. Each painting, each necklace in progress, resonated with fragments of her memories and emotions. Today, however, it felt different. Today, an impending sense of both excitement and anxiety danced in the air.
• The phone rang, and when she saw Damien’s name flash across the screen, her heart skipped. They hadn’t spoken much since his engagement to Ester. Did he still think of her as he once did? She picked up the phone, forcing herself to sound calm.
• “Damien, hi!” she said, trying to keep her voice steady despite the crackle of nerves simmering beneath the surface.