Chapter Fifteen: Duty Calls

Chapter Seventeen: Duty Calls

After finishing breakfast, James leaned back in his chair, sipping the last of his coffee. His eyes lingered on Charlotte, who was happily cleaning up the dishes. A part of him wanted to stay home, to spend the entire day with her, but duty called.

He set his mug down and sighed. "Charlotte…"

She turned to him, tilting her head. "What is it?"

James rubbed the back of his neck. "I have to go to work today."

Charlotte's expression softened. "Oh… I see."

He could hear the slight disappointment in her voice, and it made him hesitate. Ever since they had grown closer, he found himself wanting to spend less time at the office and more time with her.

She walked over to him and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "It's okay, James. I know you have responsibilities."

James looked up at her, then pulled her into his lap, wrapping his arms around her waist. "I'd rather spend the day with you."

Charlotte smiled, running her fingers through his hair. "And I'd rather you not neglect your business."

James chuckled, pressing a kiss to her shoulder. "You're too reasonable."

She laughed. "One of us has to be."

A Temporary Goodbye

After a few more moments of holding her, James finally stood up and went to get dressed. He emerged from the bedroom in a crisp suit, looking as sharp and powerful as ever.

Charlotte walked him to the door, standing on her toes to straighten his tie. "Try not to overwork yourself," she said softly.

James smirked. "Missing me already?"

She rolled her eyes playfully. "Maybe."

James leaned down, capturing her lips in a slow, lingering kiss. When he pulled back, his voice was low. "I'll be back before you know it."

Charlotte smiled. "I'll be waiting."

As he walked out the door, she watched him go, her heart feeling strangely full.

She had spent so many years feeling alone, unwanted. But now, with James, even when he wasn't physically there, she knew she was never truly alone anymore.