Chapter 10 Growing Interest

Luke's interest in Charlotte was growing. In a time when most people were all about having fun, it was unique to see someone her age so focused on their work. Frank stood up, moving his chair back. "I got it wrong earlier, and I'm sorry about that." "No worries, I've done a lot of designs, so it's easy to mix them up. They kind of have a similar vibe." Luke looked at Frank, not happy. "Keep it down when we're out, okay? We're lucky we're at home this time, but messing up in public? That's a whole other story." Lorraine was shocked by how Frank was acting today. 'This isn't like Frank. Why does he get so weird whenever Charlotte is around?' Frank sat down again. "Good that we sorted that out. I didn't mean anything, just that I've seen something like your design before. And like Luke said, it's lucky this happened at home. Would've been a bigger deal in public." "You're making too much of it," Luke said. Linda shot Frank a look, annoyed. 'I should've thought twice before inviting them. They're not helping at all, just stirring up drama.' The housemaid's announcement that dinner was ready cut through the tense atmosphere. Linda ushered everyone to the table, deciding internally that Frank wouldn't be invited again. The meal itself was enjoyable, especially for Charlotte who complimented the chef's skills to Linda. "If you enjoy the meals, have Luke bring you here more often. Just give me a heads up next time. I want to be better prepared. I'll have the chef make something extra special for you next time," Linda said warmly. "Thanks, Mrs. Allen." Linda beamed. "You're welcome. We're delighted to have you. Luke, make sure to bring her by whenever you're free." Luke, with a hint of reluctance, agreed, "Okay, Mom." Charlotte's mind was elsewhere, anxious about future visits. Her relationship with Luke was just for show, and she feared being found out. While she didn't want to handle Frank's antics again, refusing Linda's heartfelt invitation didn't feel right either. "Of course, I'll make sure to visit more." After they finished eating, Luke drove Charlotte home. Andy and Lilya were excited to see her, running out to meet her. Lilya proudly showed off the floral dress Sofia had just bought for her. "Do you think I look cute in it?" Charlotte bent down and hugged her. "You always look cute, sweetheart. You're adorable in anything." Luke watched from the car as Charlotte spent time with the kids. He noticed Andy, standing quietly aside, reminding him of himself as a young boy - always so quiet and serious, longing for his mother's hug but too stubborn to ask for it. Charlotte asked what Andy and Lilya had been learning from their nanny, Carol. Lilya was thrilled to show her. Andy thought it was all pretty easy since he had learned it already, but he still helped out like a good student. Charlotte was genuinely impressed. "You two are so talented. I must have done something right in my past life to have you as my kids." "Yeah! I'm super smart. I pick up everything so fast." Lilya beamed with pride. But the truth was, Lilya often forgot what Carol taught her. Andy would patiently go over it all with her again until she got it. He just watched her, not saying a word about her little secret. "Alright, let's go inside. It's late, and it's time for your bath before bed. You've got more to learn tomorrow," Charlotte gently told them. But Andy wanted to be independent. "Mommy, I can wash up by myself. Just help Lilya." Inspired by her brother, Lilya said, "I want to wash by myself today too!" Charlotte was a bit doubtful. "Do you think you can manage?" "If Andy can do it, I can too!" Charlotte knew Lilya had never bathed alone before. A three-year-old managing not to slip in the bath was already an achievement. She had always bathed Lilya herself to ensure her safety. But hearing her daughter's request to try on her own was unexpected. "Alright, give it a try, but call me if you need me." Lilya broke free from Charlotte's embrace and headed confidently forward. "I'm sure I can do it!" Sofia handed Charlotte a glass of water, smiling. "It seems our little princess is ready to take on new challenges." "Yes." Lilya's eyes were wide and earnest. "I'm going to show everyone that I can take a bath by myself!" Charlotte smiled at their eagerness. She prepared their bath items and waited outside the bathroom with Sofia, ready to step in if needed. Sofia looked at Charlotte with a teasing smile. "I noticed Luke dropped you off. What's up with you two, huh?" "Luke was just helping me out by giving me a ride. Remember, I mentioned over the phone? He wanted me to act as his girlfriend for a while, so I agreed to go with him." Sofia was still suspicious. "Yeah? And without your car, how are you planning to get to work tomorrow?" "Oh no, I forgot about that." Charlotte realized. "Can you drive me tomorrow morning?" Sofia hesitated for a moment. "I will, but only if you take me to that steakhouse you went to for lunch." The thought of the pricey restaurant made Charlotte cringe, but she agreed, "Alright, it's a deal. We'll go there for lunch tomorrow." "Don't even think about backing out." "I've never backed out before, have I?" As Sofia began reminiscing about some old school days, Charlotte quickly silenced her, not wanting to delve into the past. "See, you're avoiding the topic," Sofia complained, her voice muffled. Once Sofia let the subject go, Charlotte decided to share her encounter with Frank. "I ran into Frank at Luke's house." Sofia's expression changed immediately, sharing Charlotte's distaste for Frank. "How did you end up seeing him at Luke's place?" "Luke is Frank's uncle. He was there when Luke brought me over for dinner."