Joanne looked down at Charlotte, her blue eyes glimmering with joy and love. Against all odds, her lips curved. A smile. A real, genuine smile.
It surprised even her. She didn't know she had this kind of grace in her. This kind of strength.
It wasn't Charlotte's fault, after all.
And maybe… just maybe, Joanne wasn't as bitter as she thought she was.
"How could I not wish you luck?" she murmured, pulling down her hat and ruffling Charlotte's hair with a fond sigh.
Then she noticed it—a disaster of a hairstyle, strands sticking out in every direction like she'd gotten ready in a hurry. Joanne let out a soft breath, instinctively smoothing it down, fixing the messy tie so Charlotte looked polished and comfortable for her match.
"All the best," she said, her voice gentle as she patted Charlotte's cheek. "I want to see you in the finals."
Charlotte's whole face lit up as she nodded enthusiastically, her excitement untainted by the shadows looming over the adults around her.
