@englotforever05: Chapter 36 — Let Me Be There The days in the province slowly became peaceful. For the first time in years, Charlotte and Engfa were able to spend ordinary days together. No cameras. No reporters. No hospital rooms. No secrets. Just them. One morning, Charlotte walked into the kitchen. “Engfa?” “Hmm?” “Where are you?” “I'm making coffee.” Charlotte smiled. “You're making coffee?” “Yes.” “You nearly burned the kitchen the last time.” “I was learning.” Charlotte laughed. “You've had years to learn.” Engfa frowned playfully. “Then come here and help me.” Charlotte walked toward her. She took the cup from Engfa's hand. “You're lucky I'm here.” Engfa smiled. “I know.” After breakfast, Charlotte helped Engfa walk around the garden. Engfa had memorized every part of it. But sometimes she still missed a step. Charlotte immediately held her arm. “Careful.” “I know.” “You almost fell.” “I didn't.” “You did.” “I was testing you.” Charlotte laughed. “Testing me?” “Yes.” “To see if I'd catch you?” Engfa smiled. “And you did.” Charlotte shook her head. “You're impossible.” Engfa reached for her hand. “But you love me.” Charlotte smiled. “Unfortunately.” Engfa laughed. “Unfortunately?” “Very unfortunately.” “Then maybe I'll leave.” Charlotte immediately pulled her closer. “No.” Engfa smiled. “Got you.” That afternoon, Charlotte brought Engfa to the market. Engfa insisted she could manage by herself. “I can walk.” “I know.” “I can choose what I want.” “I know.” “I don't need you to do everything for me.” Charlotte stopped. “I know.” Engfa became quiet. Charlotte gently touched her hand. “I'm not helping you because I think you're helpless.” Engfa didn't answer. “I'm helping you because I love you.” Engfa lowered her head. “Sometimes…” She hesitated. “I hate needing help.” Charlotte understood. “You don't have to hate it.” “I used to do everything myself.” “I know.” “I had a career.” “I know.” “I traveled alone.” “I know.” “I could see everything.” Charlotte squeezed her hand. “And you still have a life.” Engfa looked toward her voice. “It's just different now.” “Yes.” Charlotte smiled. “So let's learn this life together.” Engfa's eyes filled with tears. “You make it sound easy.” “It won't be.” Charlotte gently held her face. “But you won't have to do it alone.”
