"I want to stay with you forever…"
Charlotte's voice trembled, thick with anguish and betrayal. The sheer desperation in her words made Joanne's heart ache.
She tightened her hold on the girl, pressing her lips against Charlotte's hair as if she could shield her from all the hurt in the world.
What could she say to ease this pain?
Joanne did what she did best—she took care of her. She made sure Charlotte was clean and had something warm to eat. But even after all that, Charlotte refused to sleep. She wouldn't let go of Joanne, clinging to her like a child afraid she'd disappear the moment she closed her eyes.
"Your father's been searching all over town for you," Joanne finally said, gently patting Charlotte's hand. "You caused a lot of trouble, you know that, right?"
Charlotte pouted, turning her face away. "He deserves it," she muttered, her defiance layered with hurt.
Joanne sighed. "Your dad loves you dearly, Charlie. He was worried sick."
