Chapter 14: Really Short on Cash
Ethan went all out, freezing the entire Russell family's assets in just two days, including their properties and the stocks under Charlotte's dad's name. He was sure Charlotte would eventually cave to his demands.
When the government came to seize their assets, Maria was so furious she fainted and ended up in the hospital. When she woke up, she was still in denial and rushed to confront Ethan. But Ethan wasn't the same person anymore. Maria made a scene at his company entrance for a long time but didn't get to see him and almost got taken away by the police.
Charlotte managed to persuade Maria to return to the hospital. Lying in the hospital bed, Maria was worried. "The property doesn't matter, but your dad needs money right now. Without money, how can we hire a lawyer? Even though we know Michael, we still have to pay the fees!"
Charlotte tried to comfort her softly, "I'll find a way to raise the money."
Maria gave Charlotte the over one million dollars she had saved for her retirement. Charlotte held the card, choking up, "I'll use this for now and later..."
But Maria interrupted her, "I have a small apartment in the suburbs. We can make do there for now. You must do everything you can to fight for your dad in court. We can't let anything happen to him."
Charlotte nodded tearfully.
After Maria was discharged, they moved into a temporary rental house. The house was a two-bedroom, simply furnished, and far from the comfort of their previous home. Charlotte felt guilty and asked Lily to find her two part-time jobs to ensure their future.
Lily disapproved, "You already work so much. Adding two more jobs will just burn you out!"
Charlotte was determined. "I'll be fine."
Lily guessed that Charlotte had many expenses and had to find a job. She also gave Charlotte all her savings. Charlotte never forgot that act of kindness.
Every day after work, Charlotte headed to her part-time job at a restaurant. It was exhausting, but she made $100 an hour. She was attractive and played the piano well, so the manager was happy to hire her.
One evening, Frederick and Charlotte crossed paths at the restaurant. Frederick wasn't alone; he was with a very charming woman. They seemed like work partners but with a hint of something more. Charlotte wasn't surprised. A man as impressive as Frederick would never lack female company. She knew her place; she and Frederick were from different worlds. Even if they met again, she chose not to disturb him. However, fate had other plans. On her way to the restroom, she bumped into him and managed only a soft "Mr. Hawkins."
Frederick frowned when he saw Charlotte. She looked slimmer, her jawline more defined. While it enhanced her beauty, she seemed delicate, as if a gentle touch could shatter her. Frederick knew that the upscale training center where Charlotte worked prohibited instructors from holding part-time jobs.
He took a drag from his cigarette and slowly exhaled the smoke. The smoke lingered between them as he flicked the ash. "Ms. Russell, strapped for cash?"
Charlotte was stunned. She didn't expect Frederick to care about her. After a moment, she softly replied, "Yeah, really strapped."
Frederick immediately guessed it was because of Ethan. He didn't feel the need to stand up for her; just let his gaze sweep over her body. Frederick admitted that if Charlotte wanted to make money with her looks, it would be easy. She wasn't just beautiful; she had a gentle nature. She was quite obedient when it came to kissing and sex. Her vulnerability in bed was sure to ignite a man's passion. Who wouldn't appreciate that?
The fact that she was working so hard at part-time jobs surprised Frederick. But he just gave a slight nod.
Charlotte hurried into the restroom. When she came out, Frederick was gone, and the beautiful woman who had been with him had also left. Charlotte thought that tonight, Frederick was probably in for another wild night.
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