Chapter Nine: A New Routine

The night had been peaceful, wrapped in warmth and quiet understanding. For the first time, Charlotte slept soundly, no nightmares, no thoughts of the past—just the steady rhythm of James's breathing beside her.

When morning came, sunlight streamed through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the room. Charlotte stirred, stretching slightly, only to realize James was already awake, watching her.

"Morning, Mrs. Clemens," he murmured, his voice still husky with sleep.

Charlotte smiled, her fingers tracing light patterns on the sheets. "Morning."

James brushed a strand of hair from her face. "Hungry?"

She nodded, and within minutes, they were downstairs in the dining area, where a lavish breakfast had been prepared—fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit, eggs, and coffee.

"You eat like a king every morning?" Charlotte teased as she took a sip of her coffee.

James smirked. "Perks of being rich." Then, his expression softened. "But I think I enjoy it more when I have you here."

Charlotte's heart did a little flip, but she quickly hid it behind another bite of her pancake.

After breakfast, James leaned back in his chair. "I was thinking… we should go out today. Just us."

Charlotte raised an eyebrow. "Go where?"

"Shopping."

She blinked in surprise. "You want to go shopping?"

James shrugged. "You've spent so much of your life being told what you can and can't have. I want to change that. Today, you get whatever you want."

Charlotte wasn't used to this kind of treatment, but the way James looked at her—like he truly wanted to spoil her—made her nod. "Okay."

A Shopping Spree Like No Other

An hour later, they arrived at one of the city's most luxurious shopping districts. High-end boutiques lined the streets, each boasting the latest designer collections.

James, being who he was, had already arranged for private shopping experiences in multiple stores. The moment they stepped into the first boutique, staff members greeted them eagerly, bringing out dresses, shoes, and accessories without hesitation.

Charlotte ran her fingers along a silk gown. "This is all too much…"

James came up behind her, his hands resting lightly on her shoulders. "Nothing is too much for you."

She glanced at him, searching his face for any trace of insincerity, but all she saw was truth.

So, for once, she let herself enjoy it.

She tried on outfits, twirled in front of the mirrors, and even let James pick a few dresses for her. Some were elegant, others bold. When she stepped out in a stunning red gown, James's gaze darkened.

"Keep that one," he said without hesitation.

Charlotte blushed but didn't argue.

By the time they left, her arms were full of bags. James, of course, had the staff carry the rest to the car.

As they walked down the street, hand in hand, Charlotte realized something.

She wasn't just James's wife.

She was someone he cherished. Someone he wanted to see happy.

And for the first time in her life, she let herself believe she deserved it.