Chapter 79

• Resolute in her choice to avoid the two of them, Charlotte whipped herself into a routine: jewelry during the day and parenting at night. She threw herself into her work, striving to keep her mind occupied while trying to emotionally process everything that happened. Yet, every so often, thoughts of Damien would worm their way into her heart, taunting her with the memories of shared moments—the richness of their inside jokes, the tender silences enveloping them in the twilight, the gentle press of their hands while walking.
• “Mommy?” Leo’s small voice called out once more, pulling her back to the present. “Can we make a special dinner for Dad on Saturday? I want to show him my drawing!”
• Charlotte felt her heart tighten. “Of course, Leo, but let’s save that surprise for another day. Maybe we can invite him the next time—after school break?”