Page 20 of What are the Chances

A burning sensation grows beneath my skin at her mention of Kyle. Looking at Charlotte, you’d never guess she had grown up without a family. She’s so put together and obviously knows how to take care of herself. Well, except for last night, but I don’t hold the one night against her.

“I’m sorry to hear about your mother.” I’m not sure what else to say. Charlotte doesn’t seem emotional about it since it’s been about fifteen years. Still, they're the only words I can think to say.

She sends me a small nod of appreciation. “Anyway,” she sighs. “I made the trip even though I was coming by myself. I knew I had Sam here, so I wasn’t too worried about it.”

“Sam,” I scoff. I shake my head in disapproval. How could Sam and Kyle do this to Charlotte? How could the most important people in her life leave her stranded in a country she’s never been to?

Ignoring my remark, she continues. “I went down to the pub to find out if I could find someone who knew anyone with the same last name.”

I think back to the first time I met Charlotte on our flight from L.A. when she had introduced herself to Alma. She had only mentioned her first name.

“What’s your last name? Maybe I could help you.”

“Kelley,” she says, wincing, almost as if she already knows my response.

Laughing, I press my hand against my chest and tilt my head back. The morning sun warms my face as I look up into the tree hanging above us. Once I’m able to control myself, I lean my back against the tree and smile at Charlotte. Her eyes are narrowed, obviously filled with anger, her lips pressed tightly together, annoyance written all over her face.

“I’m sorry, I don’t mean to laugh, but that is one of the most common Irish names to ever exist. It’s right up there with my name, McConnell.”

“Sure, laugh it up.” Rolling her eyes, she stands up and dusts off her pants. “You’re just like the men down at that pub.” She grips her book between her fingers and begins making her way back to the house, not stopping as she continues. “You know what? I don’t need you, and I don’t need them. It’s like I said yesterday, I can find my own way.”

Jogging to catch up to her, I grab her elbow, urging her to stop.

“Char, please. Wait up.”

Stopping, her eyes dart from my hand on her elbow to my face. Suddenly, her face softens slightly, and the fire leaves her eyes.

“I’m doing this no matter what,” she grits out. “With or without help.”

I stare into her eyes, watching as they well with tears. I can tell Charlotte’s a strong woman, and despite having her wallet stolen, I know she could handle herself. But as my fingers grip the unbelievably soft, smooth skin of her arm, I can’t imagine not spending more time with her. I can’t imagine her exploring Ireland without me, finding the answers she’s been searching for. And I can’t imagine having to spend an entire day without her, only to wait until we lie in a bed together, divided by pillows. If Sam and Kyle won’t be there for her, I sure as hell will.

“Listen,” I breathe. “I’m sorry. I’ll go with you.”

“What?” she asks, her eyes searching mine.

“I’ll help you find your family.”

“I don’t understand.” She glances around the garden as if it somehow will answer the questions floating inside her brain. “Why would you want to help me? I thought I was an inconvenience.”

My stomach twists at her comment. I think back to yesterday when Charlotte had overheard me yelling at Sam how I couldn’t stand to be around her. I didn’t know it then, but I was lying, and I would be lying now if I told her the same thing.

“What can I say?” Shrugging, I smirk and let go of her elbow. “You’re kind of growing on me.”

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