Chapter 36: My Daughter's best friend 2

It was definitely time for bed once it was done, and I got another big hug and a kiss on my cheek from Livy, then a big hug from Charlie as well.

I tried not to show my surprise, just holding her and gently rubbing her back. She wished me a quiet 'happy birthday', and I could tell it was costing her a concerted effort not to let herself literally run away from me afterwards as she and Livy headed up the stairs to get ready for bed.

I sat back down on the couch, wanting to give them their space, and trying to dissect the meaning of what had just happened. It was probably nothing, I eventually concluded. Or at least, nothing I needed to worry about.

Another step in Charlie's years-long battle with her shyness, maybe; something to be celebrated, not concerned over.

I was listening in upstairs, not for voices, which I couldn't make out anyways, but just for the sound of doors closing so I would know when it was time for me to head up as well.