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“But, Dad …” Isla whined as she batted her eyelashes up at me and pulled the puppy dog eyes. A look I pretended to be immune to, but I most certainly wasn’t. That look gutted me each and every time but I had to be strong.

“When you’re older, Isla,” I confirmed, only for her to pout and pull the tiara off her head and throw it across the room. I guess the tea party was over. Rather than picking a fight, I stood up, ignoring the cracking sounds my knees made as I did, and went out to the kitchen to unpack the dishwasher. Damn, I led a glamourous life.

While Isla sulked, I tidied up and threw a load of clothes in the washer before stripping the sheets from my bed. Seeing my phone plugged into the charger on the bedside table, I reached over and picked it up.

Luke:Since when did six-year-olds get their ears pierced?

The need for someone to talk to about this was new to me and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t rattled.

Charlotte:I got mine pierced at four

Her reply made me smile.

Luke:You’re not helping

Charlotte:Sorry

Luke:No you’re not

Charlotte:You’re right. I’m not. I’m guessing Isla asked?

Luke:Yeah. Apparently her friend got them done and now she needs them

Charlotte:What did you say?

Luke:Maybe when you’re older. Is it a cop out?

Charlotte:Yep. But it’s the right decision

Luke:Thanks

Charlotte:So …

Luke:So …

Charlotte:When can I steal you away for dinner and …

Luke:Dinner and …

Charlotte: Yep. Dinner and …

Charlotte was certainly something else. I loved the fact she didn’t play games. It was almost like she just couldn’t be bothered. If she wanted something she asked for it. It was refreshing. I was a busy guy with more than my fair share of baggage. I didn't have time for games and bullshit.

Luke:When you put it like that …

Charlotte:Oh, it’s like that

Luke:Let me see what I can arrange

Charlotte:Only if you want to

When she started second-guessing herself it was cute. There was no way I didn’t want to. In fact, when it came to Charlotte, I found I was considering things I never thought I would again.

Luke:Trust me, I want to

The three dots danced in my messages, and I found myself smiling while I waited for her reply.

Charlotte:Good