Chapter 107: Birthday - James

JAMES

Michael lays hands on Charlotte’s shoulders, lays a kiss on her forehead. “How are you doing, Babe? You alright?”

Her smile is a little thin, but it’s there. “I’m okay. Knowing that Dad’s going to be alright has helped. But it’s all been a bit… you know. What with one thing and another.”

“Of course, but we’re coming out of it now. Anyway, James and I wanted a word with you. Beth too.”

Worry darts over her face. “I’m not… you’re not mad at me over something are you?”

“No. No. Nothing like that. Quite the opposite.” Michael turns, releasing her to me and I slip my arms around her.

I add my own kiss to her forehead. “For some fairly obvious reasons, Charlotte, you’ve been upset recently, but as you know, it’s Richard’s birthday very soon. And Beth here has made rather an interesting suggestion about his birthday gift.”

“Master?” Charlotte’s eyes widen, green with intrigue, flicking between me, Beth and Michael. Michael grins, flashing brows.