Chapter 69

The morning sun streamed through the curtains as Carson packed his suitcase. He was preparing for his trip back to London, a journey he'd been putting off for too long. It was time to face his family, to explain his absence, and to resume his work at the company headquarters.

As he folded a shirt, his mind wandered to Alice and Charlie. The past few weeks had been a whirlwind of rekindled emotions and growing closeness. With Margaret's threats behind them, Carson had felt free to pursue the family life he'd always wanted.

A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. It was Alice, Charlie balanced on her hip.

"Hey," she said, a soft smile on her face. "We thought we'd come say goodbye before you leave."

Carson's heart swelled at the sight of them. "Come in," he said, reaching for Charlie. The baby gurgled happily, recognizing his father.

As Carson held his son, he felt a pang of regret about leaving, even if it was just for a short while. "I'm going to miss you both," he said, looking