Cold husband burning regret

Regret Novel 45

Charlotte had slept soundly in the guest room last night–her first truly restful sleep

in ages.

It wasn’t until breakfast the next morning that she saw Evander at the dining table. He looked unusually tired, a rare exhaustion shadowing his normally striking, fair features.

Lana brought out breakfast, half–expecting Charlotte to reach out and help, as she always used to. But Charlotte sat motionless, her hands folded in her lap, showing no intent to assist. Lana paused, surprised by the sudden change, picking up on the tension between them.

Had they argued?

Evander buttoned his cuffs with methodical care, his gaze fixed on the untouched breakfast. He remembered how, in the past, whenever he stayed at Tranquility Manor, Charlotte would always rise early to make him breakfast. Now, she slept in later than he did.

He picked up his knife and fork with deliberate slowness, glancing over to see Charlotte quietly eating her own meal, completely absorbed, as if he wasn’t even there. His lips pressed into a thin line. After a moment, he set down his silverware with a frustrated clatter.

“Sir, is your breakfast not to your liking?” Lana asked, worry flickering in her eyes.

She couldn’t help wondering–if she failed at breakfast, would her pay be docked?

Charlotte paused but said nothing.

“I’m not hungry,” Evander replied, rising from the table. He grabbed his coat from the back of his chair and left without another word.

turned to Charlotte, looking stricken. “Ma’am, is the food really that

her voice gentle but weary. “No, Lana, don’t worry. He lost his appetite for

sheepish grin. “That’s a relief–as long

so, but maa.., I can

1/3

09:38 R

caught off

her? That had to be the most

forced a smile. “Lana, are you sure you’re

Lana insisted cheerfully. “Back when he had breakfast here you always made sure he was comfortable, asked if he’d slept well, if he liked the food. I think he’s

of Evander’s

wasn’t entirely

hope for. Breakfasts were her

what she did or

over him anymore. She

Shouldn’t

indulge in any more wishful thinking or misunderstandings when it came

***