Chapter 24 Should You Guys Move Out?

Growing up, Andy and Lilya were often labeled as fatherless children. Their mother always acted like it didn't bother her, but deep down, they knew it hurt her feelings. Now, with a father in their lives, those painful days were over. Andy watched Charlotte with Luke and realized he would get used to this new situation. Charlotte, who had been worried, was relieved. She thought she would need a big talk with the kids, but it wasn't necessary. While Luke was giving the kids their gifts, Sofia came in, feeling a bit envious. "Why don't you all just move out? Seeing your happy family every day is a bit much for me." Luke was busy with the gifts. "Find a boyfriend, and you could have this, too." The idea made Sofia shiver. "I'm not cut out for being a homemaker. I prefer being on my own." Charlotte smiled widely. "You might change your mind when you meet the right person." Sofia, half-joking, urged them to leave. "You didn't say that before. You've been together only a day. You should move out. I can't handle seeing you together all the time." Luke chuckled at Sofia's overly dramatic reaction. "What if I buy the house next to yours? You could come over for meals anytime, and I'd be glad knowing Charlotte is nearby." Luke's job usually had him traveling a lot, but he had been less busy lately. This gave him the chance to be with Charlotte and the kids more. Charlotte agreed with Luke's idea, thinking it might be weird to keep living in the same place. But she insisted on using her own money from selling her villa, not wanting to rely on Luke's. They were just dating, and she didn't expect him to spend so much for her. Sofia agreed, "Okay, but stay close. It's fine if I visit for meals, but you don't understand how it feels to come home to see your family together." When Luke proposed buying a house the next day, Charlotte immediately said no. Luke, seeing how firm she was, dropped the idea and turned his attention back to playing with the kids. Sofia lounged on the couch with a facial mask. "What's the status of your house?" "I've left that to Luke to sort out. I'm not sure about the details." Luke, engrossed in playing with the kids, added, "Let's just wait. Finding a trustworthy buyer is important." Luke's advice resonated with Sofia. She shared a story about selling her apartment near a college. "Even when I lowered the price, they still found it expensive." She was baffled by their unrealistic expectations compared to the market. Charlotte could relate, having been thrifty herself. "They'll always think it's costly, no matter the price. They prioritize saving, and it's okay if you don't understand that." But Sofia disagreed slightly, "I was so annoyed, and I refused to sell to them. They caused trouble at my parents' house, and my folks had to step in." Charlotte realized the importance of a careful choice. "So, picking the right buyer is crucial." Sofia invited Charlotte to sit and relax with a facial mask. As Charlotte watched Luke play with the kids, she was enveloped in a warmth she had never imagined possible. This once-unthinkable scene now felt surreal. She pinched herself to ensure it was real. Sofia, noticing Charlotte's joy, smiled. "Are you excited about what's ahead?" "Yes, I really am looking forward to it." "Luke is going to be a great husband." Sofia had always been careful about who she introduced to Charlotte, especially after all the tough times Charlotte had been through. Now, it was her turn for joy. Sofia sat up suddenly. "When do you plan to get married?" Charlotte sighed. "We just confirmed our relationship last night. Why are you more anxious about this than I am?" "It's obvious. The kids already adore Luke, don't they?" Charlotte, reflecting on Sofia's words, realized an important aspect: good preschools often favored children from dual-parent families. Being a single mother, marrying Luke might be necessary for the kids' education. Yet, she hesitated, not wanting to rush things or appear desperate. Sofia saw Charlotte's worried look. "What's on your mind?" "Just feeling overwhelmed. Everything's happening so quickly." "Just relax. Everything's heading in a positive direction, right?" Charlotte nodded. "Yes, I need to relax." Sofia's comforting words helped Charlotte relax. Initially concerned about how her situation might affect Luke, she now saw he was unfazed. His steady presence brought her a sense of security and warmth she hadn't known before. After putting the kids to bed, Luke approached Charlotte. "It's late. I should head back." Sofia chimed in playfully, "You could've stayed over, you know." Charlotte gave her a mock stern look, cautious about moving too fast with Luke. Luke sensed her hesitation. "I think I'll leave. I'll be back tomorrow." Charlotte escorted him to the door. "Be careful on the road, and text me when you get home." "Sure thing." Sofia watched as Charlotte sent Luke off, noting her lingering gaze. "I said he should stay. Regretting not agreeing now?"