Dreams Can Come True

65. Handing over the keys

With a light step, I followed Charlotte to her office, curious about what the conversation would bring. The door slid open silently, and I stepped inside, my eyes widening in amazement at the splendor of her workspace.
The office was impressive, with dark wooden furniture adorned with lush leather. A large, glossy desk stood prominently in the center of the room, its surface shining and impeccable under the soft light pouring in through the large windows.
My gaze was immediately drawn to the two photos hanging on the wall, placed side by side as a tribute to Charlotte's pride and love for her family. In one photo, I saw Charlotte, flanked by two adult children. Their smiles were wide and radiant, and it was clear they were part of her professional life. The pride emanating from the photo was almost palpable.
The other photo showed the same adult children, but this time they were together with Charlotte in her office. The smile on her face was as radiant as that of her children, and it was obvious they formed a close team within the business. The loving looks they exchanged testified to a strong bond and mutual respect.
As I studied the photos, I felt a warm feeling of admiration and respect welling up for Charlotte. But at the same time, I couldn't help but notice the absence of any photo of Bas in her office. A frown creased my forehead as I wondered why that was. It felt strange, almost uncomfortable, to see his absence in this space filled with family photos and memories.
Charlotte smiled kindly at me and gestured to a couple of comfortable chairs by her desk. "Have a seat, make yourself comfortable," she said invitingly. With a knot in my stomach, I sat down on the chair opposite the massive desk where Charlotte had already taken her place. I nodded gratefully and sank into the chair, clutching my succulent plant tightly as a sort of anchor in this new environment.

Charlotte glanced at the succulent plant in my hand and smiled. "Nice plant," she said in a friendly tone.
"I got it from Bas," I blurted out immediately, my voice a bit too hasty. I felt the atmosphere in the room change instantly. Charlotte lowered her eyes, a furrow of discomfort appearing on her forehead.
It felt like an invisible wall had been erected between us, a tension that was palpable in the air. But before I could say anything to break the silence, Charlotte spoke.
"I heard you've been offered a record contract," she said, her voice calm but tinged with concern.
I nodded affirmatively. "Yes, that's right. We're in the process of recording our first CD," I replied, attempting to maintain a semblance of normalcy despite the tense atmosphere.
Charlotte seemed to hesitate for a moment before responding, her smile now somewhat forced. "Congratulations," she said finally, her words sounding genuine but with an underlying tone that made me doubt.
I decided not to say anything more about it, hoping that the uncomfortable atmosphere would dissipate on its own.

Charlotte turned to a stack of papers in front of her and began very businesslike. "So, about your apartment, Elise," she began, her tone professional and focused. "The apartment has been sold to another owner, but this owner has decided to rent it to you."
She pushed a few papers toward me, which I focused my attention on as she continued to speak. "Due to circumstances, he couldn't be here today, but he's already signed all the papers." Her voice sounded determined as she spoke, and I took in the documents, my gaze skimming over the text.
"Then you'll need to sign here," she continued, pushing the pen toward me.
I took the pen she offered and signed my name in the indicated places, noting the name of the new owner. Jan Janssens. A name as standard as a cup of coffee at breakfast. It felt almost comical to see such an ordinary name on such an important document.
"Congratulations, Elise," said Charlotte, her smile genuine as she handed me the keys to my new home. "Best of luck in the new place," she added, her words filled with sincere well wishes.
With a grateful smile, I accepted the keys, my heart filled with happiness and excitement at the prospect of my new home. It felt like a fresh start, a new beginning that I eagerly looked forward to.

With a blissful feeling in my heart, I left Charlotte's office space. The marble floor seemed to glow beneath my feet due to the soft light streaming in through the large windows. Charlotte shook my hand kindly as I left her office, her smile radiant and genuine. I thanked her warmly for the excellent service; her warmth and professionalism lifted my spirits. A hint of perfume lingered in the air as I walked towards the exit, my thoughts still filled with the conversation and the handing over of the keys. I felt grateful for the opportunity to have my own place. Charlotte whispered softly to me to give her regards to Bas. I nodded in agreement, grateful for her kind gesture.
Nothing and no one could take away this feeling of happiness from me. Not even Julie, who shouted as I left to pass her greetings to Bill. Her voice seemed to get lost in the blissful feeling that surrounded me, and I smiled broadly at her as I waved goodbye.