Chapter 138: Confidants, Part 17

Richard

James finally regains the power of speech. “You will find that Charlotte feels strongly on the subject of men who won’t take a hint. The last time I saw her do something like this, a man six inches taller than she is wouldn’t take ‘No’ for an answer. She felled him with a single blow.”

What?

This little girl?

“You mean, this has happened before?”

“I just believe in sticking up for myself….” mutters the scarlet-faced Charlotte.

And finally, I see the funny side. “And you paid for this woman?” I laugh to James.

He snakes an arm around her, reeling her in, smacking a kiss on the top of her head. “Worth every cent,” he says, eyes twinkling.

I turn to my wife, her hand still holding Charlotte’s….

Girl-power?

…. Don’t be an idiot man….

Friendship and loyalty….

“Elizabeth, will you please go home now.”

She nods. “Thanks, Charlotte,” she says, turning to leave.

Now make it up to the girl….