What did he mean by that? What mistake?
I walked up the steps of the porch. I didn’t know what I’d be walking into, considering the events of last night. Opening the door, I stepped into the foyer and set my briefcase down. Eloise flew down the stairs and hugged me.
“Hi, Dad.”
“Hi, sweetheart.” I kissed the top of her head. “How was your day?”
“Good. Charlotte and I practiced our dance routine really hard today.”
“That’s great.” I smiled. “I’m going to change out of my suit.”
“Okay. Hurry up. Dinner is almost ready.” She ran in the direction of the kitchen.
After changing out of my suit, I went downstairs and saw Charlotte and Eloise sitting at the table, eating. I poured myself a scotch and joined them.
“Dad, did Charlotte tell you she’s opening a pie shop?”
“She did.” I shoved a forkful of pasta in my mouth.
“Isn’t it exciting? She said I can come help.”
“Is that so?” I glanced at Charlotte, and she looked away.
“Yep.” Eloise grinned. “She’s calling it The Cozy Crumb. Isn’t that so cute?”
“Sure.”
After an uncomfortable dinner, Eloise went upstairs for a bath, and I took my plate to the sink.
“If you’re going to continue to work for me, we need to come to some sort of truce,” I said. “Eloise will start to suspect something is wrong.”
“I agree,” Charlotte responded.
“Did you sign the rental agreement today?” I asked.
“Yes. How did you know that?”
“Grant stopped by the office. He needed a signature from me and told me you were coming in today to sign. He gave you the keys?”
“Yes.”
“Do you even know what to do next?” I stared at her.
“Nah. I’m just going to wing it and pray for the best.”
“That kind of talk is irresponsible.” I pointed at her.
“And to think this irresponsible girl is taking care of your daughter.” She turned and walked out of the kitchen.
Sighing, I rubbed the back of my neck. There was no point in trying to talk to her.
Chapter Thirty-Two
ONE WEEK LATER
Charlotte
The days blended into nights, and the nights blended into days. The past week had been tough with Ashton. Neither of us spoke to each other and made a point to stay out of each other’s way. But the one thing that shocked me was how he was home every night. I’d thought for sure he’d spend as little time as possible at home. I missed parts of him. The parts that made me feel safe.