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When Amelia was ready, they would talk again. Until then, Charlotte would focus on creating a warm, welcoming home. And she would hope this new romance brought more happiness than heartbreak for her strong-willed, passionate daughter.
CHAPTER NINETEEN
The waves crashed against the shore, a soothing backdrop to Charlotte and Simon's seaside dinner. Candlelight flickered across their smiling faces as they chatted easily over wine and fresh seafood.
"It's so nice to finally relax together," Charlotte said, reaching across the table to clasp Simon's hand. His rough, calloused fingers enveloped her delicate ones.
"I've been looking forward to this all day," he replied. "Though I know you've had a lot on your mind lately." His hazel eyes searched hers knowingly.
Charlotte sighed. "I just can't stop thinking about Isla. Do you really think she's given up contacting you for good?"
Simon gently squeezed her hand. "Isla and I have been separated for years now. She knows there's no going back."
"I wish I could believe that," Charlotte said quietly, gazing out at the tumbling waves. Their rhythm soothed her fraying nerves.
"Hey." Simon tilted her chin back to meet his earnest eyes. "You have nothing to worry about with Isla. Or with us. Okay?"
Charlotte managed a small smile. "Okay," she acquiesced, trusting in his reassurance. For now, she would try to relax and enjoy their long-awaited evening together. Tomorrow's worries could wait.
Charlotte's smile faded as her thoughts turned inward.
"It's not just Isla," she admitted with a heavy sigh. "I feel like no one is taking my concerns seriously lately. Not about Isla, or my dad, or Amelia and this new boy, or the development plans for the coast..."
She trailed off, twisting her napkin in her hands. Simon leaned forward, his expression open and attentive.
"I wish someone would really listen, you know?" Charlotte continued. "Instead of brushing off my worries as paranoia or overreaction. I just want to protect the people and places I care about."
Simon nodded slowly. "I hear you. Your concerns are valid. Have you tried talking to Amelia again?"
At the mention of her daughter's name, Charlotte's face fell.
"Amelia's pulled away. She doesn't want my advice anymore." Charlotte's voice caught with emotion. "First Daniel, now Amelia...I feel so alone sometimes."
Simon grasped her hand once more, his thumb gently caressing her knuckles.
"You're not alone, Charlotte," he said firmly. "I know everything feels uncertain right now, but I'm here for you. We'll get through this together."
Charlotte met his earnest gaze, taking comfort in his steadfast presence. For now, she would try to push aside her worries and focus only on this moment, this meal, this man before her. The rest could come later.
Charlotte tried to focus on Simon and their romantic dinner, pushing her worries about Isla and Amelia from her mind. She took a sip of wine, letting the bouquet blossom on her tongue. As she set down her glass, movement from across the restaurant caught her eye.
Isla had just entered, weaving casually between the tables. Charlotte's grip on her fork tightened. What was Isla doing here? Tonight of all nights?
Charlotte watched warily as Isla made her way toward them, an innocent smile on her face. She came to a stop at their table.
"Simon! Fancy seeing you here," Isla said brightly. She turned to Charlotte. "And you must be...Charlotte, is it? I don't think we've met."
Charlotte's jaw tightened. Did Isla really expect her to believe she didn't know who she was?
Simon was frozen, his mouth open, seemingly unable to speak.
"Yes, I'm Charlotte," she replied evenly.
Isla beamed. "So lovely to meet you! I had no idea Simon was on a date tonight."
Charlotte saw right through her polite act. Isla knew exactly what she was doing. Still, Charlotte maintained her composure.
"Just having a nice dinner," she said. "Care to join us for a drink?"
