Chapter 19
After finishing her drink, Charlotte went up to the second floor to catch a breeze.
Her face was flushed from alcohol, but her mood was cheerful. This was her second year since leaving Blake. From the initial pain and confusion to now no longer dwelling on the past, she had completely let go of that man and would never again feel even a hint of helplessness because of him.
The night breeze was cool, blowing through her long hair, making the scene look like a beautiful painting.
Someone slowly walked up and stood beside her, leaning against the railing.
“Why are you up here alone? Everyone’s looking for you,” Nathan said.
“Just getting some fresh air. It all feels so unreal-we actually did it.”
Charlotte’s eyes crinkled with subtle laughter.
Yes, we did it.”
Nathan looked at her, unable to hold back a smile.
wo years ago, she had partnered with her classmate to establish the studio and invited him to join at the most crucial moment. Back then, though he ad heard Charlotte’s name, he didn’t quite believe such a fledgling studio could become an industry giant. But she was so earnest-faced with those opeful eyes, Nathan couldn’t bring himself to refuse.
le became an employee at Olive Branch Studio and witnessed Charlotte’s intensely passionate dedication.
he threw herself completely into design, staying up multiple nights for a single minor adjustment, all to achieve perfection.
When had he fallen for her? Was it when they secured their first contract together? When they first received recognition? Or perhaps during that irst excited embrace they shared?
y the time Nathan realized it, his heart had already been beating for her for a long time.
ut he also knew something of Charlotte’s past. He wouldn’t pressure her-he would support her until she was ready.
hey had plenty of time.
Tathan looked up at the stars in the sky, less brilliant than the light in her eyes.
le smiled again as a gentle breeze passed, stirring Charlotte’s hair. The distant lake rippled slightly, and his heart beat steadily in this tranquil
noment.
ompanionship needed no words. When the night deepened and the temperature dropped, Nathan helped Charlotte back downstairs.
he studio had bedrooms for when everyone needed to work overtime, allowing them to rest properly. By the time they went down, everyone else ad already left, thoughtfully cleaning up the remains of their celebration.
Charlotte was tipsy and disoriented. She rarely drank, only indulging when excited. This time, with the completion of a million-dollar project and the tudio’s reputation reaching new heights, she had drunk more than usual.
Nathan helped her to bed. Charlotte could barely keep her eyes open, still mumbling something.
The man chuckled softly. He had intended to leave, but Charlotte was simply too adorable at that moment.
He gazed at her deeply, instinctively leaning down to plant a kiss on her forehead. Just as he was about to straighten up, she grabbed his collar.
The woman who had appeared to be asleep opened her eyes. She didn’t do anything, just looked at him with a soft smile.
“Nathan, can you wait for me a little longer?”
Chatt
Chapter 19
She knew everything.
The man’s Adam’s apple bobbed as he was drawn in by the sparkle in her eyes. He nodded, responding quietly.
Satisfied with his answer, Charlotte fell into a deep sleep.
The next morning, Charlotte woke up early, immediately smelling breakfast.
She walked into the kitchen and found Nathan, as expected. Knowing she had lived in Chicago for a long time and wasn’t accustomed to Austin’s food, he had learned many recipes, becoming the best cook in the studio.
Charlotte smiled, feeling a warmth in her heart. She could constantly feel Nathan’s care for her.
“Awake already? Let’s eat.” Nathan said without turning around, having heard her movements.
“Thank you.” Charlotte pulled out a chair and turned on the television while waiting.
A news report was playing:
[The Journey of Olive Branch Studio! Co-founder revealed to be Charlotte Wells, ex-wife of Hayes family heir Blake Hayes!]
Seeing this news, Charlotte felt momentarily disoriented. It had been a long time since she’d heard about Blake, and she hadn’t expected to hear his name again under these circumstances.
When they were celebrating their contract, media had approached them for interviews, which Charlotte had naturally agreed to. She hadn’t expecter hat after all this time, her name would still be placed alongside Blake’s.
But time had passed, and people had moved on. She no longer felt any emotional turmoil about it.
