Chapter 86

"Daisy," Granger said, gently taking the little girl from Charlene's arms. He noticed then that Daisy was soaking wet. Turning to Charlene, he asked, "What happened?"

Charlene, surprised the girl was Granger's niece, explained, "She fell into the pool. I saw it and picked her up."

"Thank you," Granger replied.

"No problem," Charlene said. "She needs changing; she might catch a cold."

Granger nodded, his gaze lingering on Charlene. Daisy, however, clung to him, crying incessantly, seemingly terrified. He said nothing more, instead softly comforting her, nodding at Charlene before carrying Daisy into the elevator.

Feeling no longer needed, Charlene resumed her spa session. After bathing and changing, she went to the buffet for something to eat.

Before she could finish, Granger appeared with Daisy. "Can we sit here?" he asked.

Charlene, hesitant to spend much time with Granger, nevertheless nodded. "Please, take a seat."

"Daisy, stay put. Uncle Granger will get you something to eat."

Daisy shyly glanced at Charlene and whispered, "Okay."

Granger turned to Charlene. "Could you watch her for a moment?"

Though reluctant, Charlene agreed. "Sure."

Once Granger left, Charlene and Daisy found themselves alone. Daisy's timidity made Charlene cautious. Uncertain of Daisy's dietary needs or allergies, she hesitated to offer food from her plate.

After a moment, she softly broke the silence. "Your uncle will be back soon."

Daisy's beautiful blue eyes met hers, and she nodded.

Charlene asked gently, "Did you get water up your nose? Does it still hurt?"

Daisy shook her head.

Soon, Granger returned, placing a plate before Daisy and providing a fork and knife. Daisy quietly ate, taking small bites.

"Is it good?" Granger asked.

Daisy nodded.

Granger glanced at Charlene and said to Daisy, "The lady here helped you. Say thank you to her."

Licking some frosting from her fork, Daisy looked up at Charlene and softly said, "Thank you, ma'am."

It seemed Granger had brought Daisy to express his gratitude.

"You're welcome," Charlene replied softly.

Daisy looked at Granger, who encouraged her, "It's okay. Keep eating."

Once Daisy resumed eating, Granger shifted his attention, taking a bite of his food before asking Charlene, "Are you here alone?"

"It's a company retreat," Charlene replied. "I'm here with my colleagues."

Granger, unaware Charlene had left Henderson Group, assumed her company was also having a retreat. "I see," he said.

Just then, Stewart caught Charlene's eye and waved. Since Charlene preferred to distance herself from Granger and his associates, this provided her an escape. She quickly waved back and said to Granger, "Thanks for last time. I've got to go. Enjoy your meal."

Granger sensed her unease, likely stemming from their previous unpleasant encounter at the racetrack, but he didn't press it. He simply nodded as she left.

As Charlene approached Stewart, he looked back at Granger. "Who was that?" He had greeted Charlene without noticing Granger, whose tall, broad silhouette and the presence of a child had led him to assume they were sharing a table.

Chapter 87