Chapter 8 Back at Their Old House

• The photos predominantly showed Mike by himself, with many taken without his awareness. Some featured Charlotte and Mike together, though it was clear that Charlotte had surreptitiously captured those moments from a specific angle. In these pictures, Charlotte looked radiant and joyful, her eyes sparkling with happiness as if she were immersed in the most delightful activities.
• This album was unfamiliar to Mike. "Dad, does Charlotte not want this album anymore?"
• John scoffed, "Why would she want such an album? She cut all ties with you when she divorced you and won't reach out again."
• His words hit Mike deeply. He looked at the album with a solemn expression, his hands clenched tightly. Two years of love could not be easily discarded by Charlotte's decision. He was resolved to find her, whatever it took.
• Upon departing from the old Warner Residence, Mike found himself unexpectedly returning to the house he had once shared with Charlotte. John had purchased the house and insisted that the young couple live there. However, Mike seldom visited, preferring to stay in his own villa.
• Upon entering the front yard, he was met with a carefully maintained garden filled with an array of flowers and plants, dominated by an abundance of roses.
• Roses ...
• The sight of the roses evoked memories of Charlotte tending to the garden with a radiant smile, enticing him to admire her handiwork.
• However, the fleeting illusion vanished, leaving him standing alone in the deserted garden. With a sigh, Mike made his way to the entrance hall.
• "Charlotte, get me ... " he began, but his words were cut short by the approaching butler.
• In times past, Charlotte would eagerly welcome him home, assisting with his belongings and offering him refreshments. Now, her absence hung heavily in the air. Mike dismissed the butler and settled himself in.
• He hung up his suit jacket and began to wander aimlessly around the living room.
• As he roamed the living room, he could not shake the sense of emptiness that now filled the once vibrant and refined area.
• Suddenly, his eyes landed on the dining table, where he half-expected to find Charlotte inviting him to join her for a meal.
• Unconsciously, he found himself heading towards the dining room.
• However, the vision dissipated as swiftly as it had materialized, leaving him feeling disconcerted. Though Charlotte was physically absent, her essence seemed to permeate every corner of the house.
• Feeling overwhelmed, Mike opted to retreat to their bedroom, which now lacked any trace of Charlotte's possessions—specifically, those she had owned before their marriage.
• Surveying the familiar items left behind, like the bouquet on the coffee table, the charming decorations adorning the head of the bed, and the chair on the balcony, only exacerbated his unease.
• Charlotte had departed so abruptly!
• ...
• Two days later, Charlotte and Ben found themselves on a secluded island overseas, casually exploring its scenic beauty.
• The island boasted a perpetual spring-like climate and an array of exotic flora, creating a captivating floral haven surrounded by vast seas.
• As they wandered, they noticed several guests enjoying the sea on yachts, all of whom belonged to the affluent or noble class.
• Given the auction's exclusivity to nobility, it was no surprise they had chosen to attend.
• Charlotte, dressed in a light blue gown, gently smoothed her hair tousled by the sea breeze, enjoying the laid-back and serene atmosphere.
• "Hey, Charlotte, want some juice?" Ben grabbed two glasses from the server and handed one to her.
• "Thanks," Charlotte said, taking a sip. "I'm loving this island. Might have to buy one myself someday."
• Before she could finish, a commotion broke out.
• "Mr. Warner's here!"
• "No way! Mr. Warner's really here for the auction?"