Facade of Love

Chapter 347 His Birthday

I took a deep breath, feeling a pang of guilt wash over me. I had no clue today was Charlie’s birthday. He had hinted at wanting to grab dinner together tonight, but I had my hesitations and suggested we should hang out some other time instead.

He must have wanted me to join his birthday celebration. Regrettably, I just brushed him off.

As I stayed quiet, Inch’s voice broke through the silence on the other end of the line.” Something’s off with Sir today. His old caretakers say he has never been one for birthdays. But today, he had a cake made, just stared at it for a while, and then, without taking a single bite, he headed outside to watch the snow. He’s been out there for over two hours now, Ms. Scott. I’m at a loss for who to call. Lately, I’ve noticed he really enjoys your company. He sees you as a true friend. Could you talk to him? His well–being is at stake.”

I paused for a moment before responding, “Okay, I got it.”

Inch thanked me and hung up after hearing my answer.

I did not immediately call Charlie back. He had tried to reach out earlier, probably feeling down and wanting to chat, but I missed the signs, so he ended the call.

Calling him now would make it too obvious that Inch had filled me in.

Charlie had his pride. Knowing that Inch had shared this with me, he might not want to hear anything I would have to say.

mulled it over and decided to

hour

was thankful for remembering Charlie’s villa as I pulled up. I parked and walked up to the

of surprise quickly giving way to a warm smile. “Ms. Scott, what are you

it up for Mr. Yates’s birthday with you guys. What’s up? Don’t tell me I’m crashing your

shake his head, Inch stepped aside to let me pass and ushered me into

different. The courtyard was a winter wonderland, with only the stone path cleared, making the rest of the yard look like

,

in the snowy view. He was parked in his wheelchair, a white blanket thrown over his legs, and his cheeks were tinged with a red that screamed he had been out in the cold too long.

messy hair falling just right over his forehead. I trailed behind Inch, catching only a

face had this far–off look, and his eyes… were kind of empty, like he was

47 His

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been out here by himself for ages, and he’s not letting anyone close. You

nodded and crept up to the pavilion. I had not made it far when a biting voice cut through