FULL NOVELXO Chapter 17
Chapter 17
His words took Charlotte aback. Before she could gather her thoughts, Jerry pushed ahead. “Let’s face facts. I’m not in the best of health. My time’s running out. While I’m still around, what I want is our home filled with life and laughter.”
“But grandpa, I…” Charlotte struggled to voice her protest.
“I know it’s a big ask,” Jerry interrupted, voice quavering. “But the idea of you not being the lady of our house anymore, unable to be happy–it feels I’ve failed your grandma.
Jerry’s honesty silenced her. She literally couldn’t find words for how she felt.
When Charlotte was 18, her grandmother fell down the stairs and was hospitalized. Her parents, rushing to the hospital, ended up in a tragic car crash and didn’t survive. Heartbroken at the news, her grandmother passed away, entrusting her care to Jerry.
At age 20, when Jerry fell critically ill, he made Zachary marry her out of concern for her future. Being an obedient grandson, Zachary obliged with the hurried wedding.
She could still remember the love Jerry showered on her during her early years at the Sullivan place. He never wanted her to look back in sadness. Even though she lost her family, she found comfort in Jerry’s company, less alone somehow. And how could she say no to him now?
“Alright, Grandpa. Just stop talking like that, okay? You’re not going anywhere,” Charlotte agreed, laying her head on Jerry’s lap. Her voice trembled, choked with honest feelings. Losing even more family was a frightening thought.
“Good girl. I know it’s not fair to you.”.
“I want to go back to Maple Estates. Is that alright?” She found the Sullivan residence too much to take. She was still feeling blue about the Sullivan family.
“Fine!” Jerry nodded. He thought for a moment before adding, “Just remember to stop by now and then, okay?”
“I promise!”
With Jerry’s nod, Charlotte let out a sigh of relief. Living in the Sullivan residence was just too overwhelming.
*****
Charlotte came back from visiting Jerry. As usual, Mary was in the front hall, looking stern. This wasn’t new to Charlotte. Ever since she met Mary, this frosty scene seemed to be on repeat. She mused, ‘Honestly, when was the last time I saw Mary crack a smile?’
Chapter 17
“What’s up?” Mary noticed Charlotte carrying a bag and stood up.
Respectfully, Charlotte responded, “I’m going back to Maple Estates, Mrs. Sullivan.” That got Mary frowning. For a moment, Mary just stared at Charlotte, not saying a word.
However, as Charlotte was about to head out, Mary finally spoke. “Remember, you’re still Zachary’s wife. You should act like a Sullivan lady.”
“Mrs. Sullivan-” Charlotte started.
“Just go.” Before Charlotte could get another word out, Mary cut her off. Mary wasn’t in the mood for more chatting.
Charlotte bit back her words, gave Mary one last look, and left. “The Sullivan lady, huh?‘ Charlotte ironically thought. She had been that lady once and had zero to show for it. She wasn’t falling for that trick again.