The slap came out of nowhere, so sudden that Charlotte didnt even have time to react.

Even her mother, Ella, froze in shock.

Kaiden jabbed a finger in her face and bellowed, You want to divorce Julian? Let me tell you, over my dead body!

You think just anyone is granted entry into the Hawthorne family? Do you have any idea how lucky you are? Luck that God himself saw fit to bestow upon you! Dont be an ingrate!

Luck?

Yes, luckif she could even call it that. At most, it was the so-called good fortune of her younger self walking through fire to pull Julian out of his darkest days, risking everything to help him escape. The Hawthorne family owed her a debt, that was all.

Her laugh broke out, sharp and bitter, her eyes blazing red. Dad, I dont get it. Im your child too. Or is Henry the only one you consider your child?

You summoned me back herewhat is it this time, something about him again? Dont bother dressing it up as a family meal. Just say it outright: you want me to beg Julian for money!

Because everything about Henry is important to you, isnt it? While anything that concerns me might as well be nothing at all. Isnt that right?

Kaiden faltered, weakly dodging her gaze. Youre the eldest. Henry is your younger brother. Supporting himisnt that what a big sister is supposed to do?

Charlotte choked back her tears, steel edging into her voice. Raising him is your job. Not mine.

You Kaiden, infuriated, raised his hand again.

Charlotte thrust her face forward, defiant. Go ahead. If you dare, hit me again!

Kaidens hand trembled but didnt descend. He shook with rage, helpless against her challenge.

Kaiden, calm down! Ella, finally snapping out of her shock, grabbed his arm and pulled him back. She turned toward Charlotte, softening her tone. Lotte, dont fight with your father. This time, Henrys really in trouble. Hes been detained at the station. Your father and I thought, since the Hawthorne family has influence, Julian might be able to pull some strings.

Any warmth in Charlottes chest extinguished in an instant. Ice coiled tight around her heart.

Even now, all their minds were fixed on Henry Sheridan.

Not one bit of concern for her. Not a single thought spared for what she was going through.

I cant help.

Lotte, hes your brother

Her composure shattered as fury swallowed her whole. Julian cheated on me. He has a mistress! A child! Im about to lose my place as Mrs. Hawthorne! And now you want me to grovel before him, to lick his boots for a favor?

Kaiden and Ella froze, rooted to the floor as if struck by lightning.

Charlotte didnt wait for their response. She stormed out, slamming the door behind her.

As evening approached, Julian wrapped up the days work at the company and drove to the hospital. Passing by Charlottes office, he paused for a moment, his stride halting briefly outside her door.

Hed come to askto demand, reallywhat Charlotte might have said to his grandmother.

And only that.

Mr. Hawthorne, are you here to see Dr. Sheridan? A passing nurse stopped in her tracks, startled by his presence.

Julians expression didnt waver. I need to discuss something with Dr. Sheridan.

Oh, she left a while ago.

He turned toward her, lowering his voice. Left?

Julians brows furrowed tightly.

Charlotte never left work early.

Julian!

Claire appeared, jogging up to him, her face alight with a bright smile. Finished your meeting?

Julian barely mustered a low grunt in reply.

Claire cast a glance at Charlottes closed office door, then looped her arm through his, giggling. Julian, were you looking for me? My office isnt down this hallway.

The nearby nurses expression turned awkward, clearly second-guessing her earlier assumption.

Wasnt Mr. Hawthorne here for Dr. Sheridan? Did she misunderstand? Maybe his visit was for Director Winslow all along?

Julian didnt bother clarifying. He removed Claires hand from his arm with understated coolness. Still working?

Not yet~ Claire leaned closer, the picture of a lovestruck companion in the eyes of any onlookers. By the way, how about you come pick up Xavier with me later?

Julian seemed poised to reply when his phone buzzed. He glanced down, and the name Charlotte flashed on the screen. His lips curved, ever so faintly, as he stepped away to take the call.

Finally thought it over? Ready to apologize?