The Past Within - Mialotte - TNN

She knows

One day after work, as Charlotte was tidying up the nursery, the familiar hum of the evening quiet settling in, she was startled by the sound of footsteps behind her. She turned to see Mia approaching, her expression unreadable. Charlotte felt a knot form in her stomach—Mia wasn't known for casual conversations, especially not at the end of a long day.

Mia leaned against the doorway, her gaze sharp as she studied Charlotte. "So," she began, her tone blunt, "how long were you planning on keeping it a secret?"

Charlotte's heart skipped a beat, her hands freezing mid-motion as she looked up at Mia. "What are you talking about?" she asked, though she already knew. There was no mistaking the directness in Mia's eyes.

"Come on, Charlotte," Mia continued, her voice softening just a fraction. "I know you're divorced. You've been trying to hide it, but it's pretty obvious something's been off."

Charlotte felt a wave of panic rising, her mind scrambling for a response. She had been so careful, so determined to keep her personal life separate from work, from everyone who knew her. But Mia had seen through her façade.

"I..." Charlotte started, then paused, realizing there was no point in denying it. Mia wasn't the type to bring something up unless she was certain. "How did you find out?" she finally asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Mia shrugged slightly, her demeanour less confrontational now. "You're not the only one who knows how to read people. You've been different lately—distant, sad. And then there was that comment you made when Marjorie mentioned the roses. I figured it out."

Charlotte felt exposed, and vulnerable in a way she hadn't anticipated. She had been so focused on maintaining her composure, on keeping her secrets locked away, that she hadn't considered how much someone like Mia might notice.

"I just didn't want anyone to know," Charlotte admitted, her voice shaky. "It's been... hard, and I wasn't ready to talk about it."

Mia nodded, her expression softening further. "I get it. I'm not exactly the best at dealing with this kind of stuff either. But you don't have to go through it alone, you know?"

Charlotte was surprised by the genuine concern in Mia's voice. Despite her reputation for being tough, even harsh at times, there was something in her tone that suggested she understood more than Charlotte had given her credit for.

"Thanks," Charlotte replied, her voice still quiet, but with a hint of relief. "I appreciate that."

Mia gave a small nod, her eyes locking with Charlotte's for a moment before she turned to leave. But just before she stepped out of the room, she paused, glancing back over her shoulder.

"If you ever want to talk, or just... not be alone, let me know," Mia said, her voice surprisingly gentle.

As Mia reached the doorway, about to exit the nursery, Charlotte hesitated for a moment before calling out. "Mia, wait."

Mia stopped and turned back, raising an eyebrow. "Yeah?"

Charlotte took a deep breath, feeling a mix of apprehension and relief. "I think I'd like to take you up on that drink you offered the other day."

Mia's expression softened slightly, and a faint smile tugged at the corner of her mouth. "Oh? I didn't expect you to take me up on that."

Charlotte managed a small, tentative smile. "I guess I could use a friend right now. And maybe a drink."

Mia nodded, her demeanour shifting to one of genuine understanding. "Alright. How about we meet at that new place downtown? They've got a great selection of cocktails and a relaxed vibe."