Find Me In Your Labyrinth novel Chapter 1301

Ms. Simmons had already given Kya a bath and got her into her pajamas. Charlie scooped her up into her bedroom, flipping on the bedside lamp with practiced ease. He picked up a picture book from the side table and started reading a bedtime story to lull Kya to sleep.

Kya was a good girl, but she was a bit antsy, clutching onto Charlie's sleeve and saying, "Uncle Charlie, don't be mad at mommy."

Charlie's hand ran gently through her soft hair. "All right, I won't be mad. Go to sleep, Kya."

About half an hour later, Kya finally dozed off.

Charlie tucked her in, dimmed the lamp, and then stood up to leave, quietly closing the door behind him.

He made his way to the kitchen, grabbed a bottle of cold water, and threw back a large gulp. Then, his voice icy, he said, "Didn't I tell you to steer clear of that Martin? You get yourself into trouble and get Kya scolded too. I shouldn't even care about you; let's see if Martin can protect you!"

His voice was tinged with anger. When he looked back, he saw Emily huddled up on the couch, motionless. The floor lamp was on, casting her frail figure in a harsh light and causing a tremor in his heart.

Charlie put down the water bottle and walked over to sit next to her, looking at her coldly and asking, "Do you think you deserve this?"

Emily was leaning against the couch, her hair falling in her face, remaining silent.

Something felt off about Charlie. He leaned in and slowly lifted her face to find it streaked with tears.

His heart clenched, his voice deepening. "Why are you crying?"

Emily bit her bottom lip hard, leaving teeth marks.

Charlie's heart ached for her. He gently pulled her into his arms, his voice softening: "Don't cry; I'll protect you. I won't let anyone bully you!"

He found other women's tears annoying, but seeing Emily cry made his heart ache, and he found it hard to breathe!

Emily struggled, not wanting him to hold her.

Charlie tightened his arm around her, his voice a low reprimand: "Stop being stubborn!"