Chapter 45

Lauren squatted, unable to control herself. Looking up at Charlie, she asked, "She didn't hurt Leo, right?"

Charlie's silence fueled her anxiety. Lauren felt breathless, as if her heart were being squeezed.

Charlie, initially pleased with his fabricated story, was disappointed by Lauren's sole concern for Leo, ignoring him completely. He thought, "Why only her son? Do I mean nothing to her? Why no concern for me?"

Despite his disappointment, Charlie maintained a composed exterior, portraying himself as a truthful and caring father. He knew Lauren well; a soft approach was most effective. Though she'd forgotten him, her personality remained unchanged.

Upon learning of her amnesia, Charlie had wanted to see her immediately, to explain everything and rekindle their past. But he'd decided against it, fearing disbelief and Leo's potential removal. Instead, he devised a plan: to let Lauren remember on her own.

Unaware of his plan, Lauren believed his story. Empathizing, she imagined herself in his position, threatened through Leo, and her protective instincts would mirror his actions.

This empathy led to forgiveness. Taking a deep breath, she asked, "What happened later? Was Leo injured?"

“She only cares about Leo! Didn’t she see my bruises? Why didn’t she care about me?” Charlie thought. Glancing at Lauren, he avoided mentioning Leo. "I don't want to talk about that now," he said, lowering his head and feigning pain.

Lauren's worry intensified. She wanted to ask more, but feared hearing bad news. The thought of Leo hurt was unbearable.

"Miss Bennett," Charlie said, resuming his story, "I hope you can understand me."

Lauren nodded, understanding his actions stemmed from his deep concern for Leo.

Charlie continued, "I admit my mistake. I now know you're Mr. Bennett's lost daughter. I hope you can forgive me."

Lauren smiled sincerely. "I know it was because you cared so much about Leo."

Charlie stared at her, then said, "Leo likes you, and I think you're a good person. Can I call you" He trailed off.

The final sentence is incomplete. It seems the word "Lauren" was intended to follow "you," and there's a missing word before "her" eyebrows.