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CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO
CHARLOTTE
Shane’s condo was as classy as his car. In a gated community of townhomes near the water, it was ideally located within walking distance of CocoWalk. With three bedrooms and two baths, it was a rare find for what Shane told her was an excellent price.
“It’s lovely,” Charlotte said, liking the contemporary feel to the two-story condo. Outside, palm trees offered shade, and colorful flowers added texture to the landscaping.
Shane patted his stomach. “I’m suddenly hungry. How about something to eat? We can walk down to one of the restaurants.”
Charlotte frowned at him. “You’re supposed to be taking it easy.”
“I won’t be doing anything strenuous. Just walking to the restaurant. After we eat, I promise to come home and rest.” Shane’s voice had an edge to it, and Charlotte realized he was right. Better for him to be up and out than forced to lie still with the memories that haunted him.
“You’re right. But let’s choose a place close by. Maybe even do takeout and bring it back here,” she said.
“Okay. That’s a fair compromise. I’ll wheel your suitcase to the guest room for you. We can leave whenever you’re ready.”
It wasn’t until Charlotte went into the bathroom and took a look in the mirror that she realized how red and swollen her eyes were. Mascara had even run a bit.
Charlotte ran a washcloth under cold water and rinsed her face, still amazed by her breakdown. In retrospect, she realized her feelings might seem silly. So, her mother remained twisted by grief over her son’s death, and while dealing with her demons had never made Charlotte feel as worthy as the son she lost. In today’s world, with all the cruelty and abuse of children, it wasn’t that serious, was it? Charlotte shook her head, remembering what she knew to be true. Neglect was just as emotionally harmful as physical abuse. The bruises just weren’t visible.
She quickly restored her eye makeup and headed out to the living room where Shane was waiting for her.
“I’m sorry for being so needy,” she said, approaching him.
His eyebrows drew into a frown. “What do you mean?” He stood, lifted her chin, and gave her a steady look. “We’re all entitled to our feelings, Charlie. Growing up under a shadow left by someone you didn’t even know is hurtful. I understand. You have every right to feel the way you do.”
They stared at one another. The atmosphere in the room shifted and became charged. For a long, tense moment, Charlotte wondered if he was going to kiss her, but he turned and walked away.
###
Later, carrying their Chinese food back to Shane’s condo, Charlotte was well aware of the attention Shane drew to himself. He didn’t seem to notice until a tall, attractive brunette threw herself into his arms. “Shane, where have you been? You promised me a dinner, and I intend to make sure I get it.”
“Oh, hi, Amanda,” he said, smiling and gently disengaging from her. “It’s been a while. I’ve been busy with family.”
She cast a sour look at Charlotte. “Who is she?”
Shane glanced at Charlotte and turned back to Amanda. “This is Charlotte Bradford, a family friend.”
Amanda narrowed her eyes at him. “M-m-m, this is what’s keeping you busy?”
“No, not really. My other family too.”
“Oh, the one you’re helping?” The creased lines on her forehead softened. “Oh, well, then I expect you to call me soon.” She kissed him on the cheek. “See you soon, Shane. Don’t forget.”
Charlotte remained quiet as they continued their walk back to his condo. A family friend, he’d called her. What could she say? They’d agreed to it, but it still stung. Still, she couldn’t deny the way her stomach had curled inside her at the sight of Amanda in his arms. In truth, she had no right to be jealous.
“Sorry about that,” Shane said. “I’ve tried to tell Amanda that it wasn’t working, but she doesn’t want to hear it.”
“She seems pretty determined,” Charlotte commented.
“That’s the problem,” he said, rubbing his hands through his blond hair, wincing when he got too close to the bump on his head.
“Let’s get home, have lunch, and then we can both rest. I’m going to do some work on my computer.”
Shane smiled at her. “Thanks.”
###
