Forsaking the Years of Longing novel Chapter 7

Finally getting the house sorted out, Charlotte felt a weight lift off her shoulders. The pressure she’d been carrying eased considerably. When signing the paperwork, she noticed that the day the property transfer would be completed was the same day she was leaving. Perfect timing—she wouldn’t have to explain anything to Jaziel or Nolan.

As she signed her name, a sense of relief washed over her. Soon, everything would be over. Now, she had only one last thing to do.

She went to the mall, carefully choosing a massage device and a pair of diamond bracelets, and then headed to her Aunt Grace’s house. As soon as she walked in, Grace enveloped her in a tight hug.

"Charlotte, I really can’t bear to let you go. You’ve been in Miami for so many years; I’ve come to see you as my own daughter. It’s hard to imagine life without you here."

Grace wiped away her tears, clutching Charlotte’s hand tightly. Charlotte, feeling a pang in her heart, managed a small smile to comfort her aunt. "I’ll miss you too, Aunt Grace, but we’re family, after all. Planes and trains are convenient, and we’ll still see each other during the holidays."

Grace nodded, gradually calming herself. She guided Charlotte to the sofa. "Sit tight. I took a few days off just to spend time with you. You’ll be staying here for a few days, no excuses—I’ll make all your favorite dishes!"

Not giving Charlotte a chance to refuse, Grace hurried to the kitchen, returning with plates of Charlotte’s favorite foods and a warm smile. Watching her aunt bustling around, Charlotte couldn’t help but smile. She knew there was no winning against Grace and agreed to stay for a few days, deciding to make the most of the time they had left together.

When it was almost time for her to leave, Charlotte finally had to say goodbye, despite her reluctance.

"Aunt Grace, I really have to go now. I’ll be getting married in New Orleans in three days."

Fighting back her tears, Grace nodded, handing over a prepared envelope of wedding money. "I have three surgeries scheduled that day, so I can’t make it. This is my blessing for you, Charlotte. Just promise me you’ll be happy."

Charlotte’s eyes reddened as she accepted the envelope respectfully. "I will, Aunt Grace. Grandpa chose him for me, so you can rest assured."

Just then, the elevator doors opened, and Jaziel and Nolan stepped out, flanking Sophie. The first thing they saw was Charlotte, teary-eyed, saying goodbye to Grace, and both of them felt an unexplainable heaviness in their hearts. They immediately blurted out, “Charlotte, Grace, why are you crying?”