Chapter 3 The Contract

Chapter 3

The sun had barely risen when Jack got up. He knew that the day would be decisive, and he could not fail. After quickly preparing himself, he mounted his horse and rode towards the city, his mind fixed on the contract that would change everything in his life.

When he arrived at the lawyer's office, Jack found Clayton already waiting, with Charlotte at his side. She looked even paler and more nervous, her eyes avoiding his.

"Good morning, Jack," Clayton said, trying to sound relaxed, but the tension in his voice was evident. "Are we ready to formalize the agreement?"

Jack nodded, greeting the lawyer before sitting at the table with Clayton and Charlotte. The lawyer began to explain the terms of the contract, detailing each clause with precision. Jack hung on every word, making sure that everything was as agreed.

"So, to wrap things up, Jack will assume all financial and legal responsibilities for Charlotte, and Clayton will waive any debts. Is there anything else you'd like to add?" the lawyer asked, looking at the three of them. Jack looked at Clayton, who nodded in agreement. "No, that covers everything," Jack replied firmly. "Let's sign it." As they signed the papers, Jack felt a sense of relief. The contract was done, and Charlotte was now his responsibility. He knew the real test would begin now. After the formalization, Clayton stood up, extending his hand to Jack. "I appreciate that, Jack. I hope we can move forward without any more problems." Jack shook Clayton's hand, but his focus was on Charlotte. "I hope so, Clayton. I'll take good care of Charlotte." Clayton nodded and, without another word, left the office, leaving Jack and Charlotte alone with the lawyer. Jack turned to Charlotte, who was visibly nervous. "Charlotte, are you ready to go?" he asked, trying to sound as gentle as possible. She looked up at him, the vulnerability clear in her eyes. "Yes, I'm ready." Jack and Charlotte left the office and mounted their horses. The ride back to Jack's farm was silent, both of them thinking about their own things. When they arrived at the farm, Jack helped Charlotte off her horse. He led her to the mansion, showing her around and explaining where everything was. "This is where you're going to live now, Charlotte. I want you to feel comfortable making this place your home," he said, trying to offer a reassuring smile. Charlotte looked around, still adjusting to the idea of her new life. "Thank you, Jack. I'll try to get used to it." Jack nodded, knowing it would take time for her to adjust. "I know it's a lot to process. I'll give you all the time you need." As Jack showed her around the rest of the house, he couldn't help but admire Charlotte. Despite everything she was going through, she held her ground. Jack led Charlotte to the room he had prepared for her. The room was simple but welcoming, with dark wood furniture and a large window that let in the sunlight. He opened the door and gestured for her to enter. "This will be your room, Charlotte. Feel free to arrange everything however you like," he said, trying to sound encouraging. Charlotte stepped into the room, looking around with curious, wary eyes. Jack could see that she was trying to process all the changes. "I'll let you rest and get settled. I'll invite you to lunch later," Jack said, taking a step back toward the door. Charlotte nodded, her voice a little stronger now. "Thank you, Jack. I appreciate your kindness." Jack smiled before answering. "You're welcome, Charlotte. If you need anything, I'll be close by. I'll have the foreman come get your things." He closed the door softly and went downstairs. He knew he needed to give Charlotte space to adjust, but he also wanted to make sure she didn't feel alone or abandoned. As he walked through the house, Jack began to think about what lunch would be like. It needed to be a quiet moment, a chance for both of them to get to know each other better. Then he had an idea and went to the gourmet area. "Juliet?" he came in, calling the cook who greeted him with a big smile. "So, my dear. Did you get married? Where's your wife?" "Actually," he said, sitting at the table, "we haven't gotten married yet. I don't understand why her father left her with me. But on the other hand, I thought it best, who knows what that crazy guy would do." "Yes, it's true. I never liked him. Excuse my honesty, sir." "He's always been strange, but that never affected our friendship, except for what he was going to do with his daughter." "Speaking of which, sir. And old Silas, did he accept not marrying the young lady?", she asked curiously, approaching and sitting in front of her boss.

"I don't know. But that's a problem between Clayton and Silas."

"You're right."

Jack took off his hat, running his fingers through his black hair. At forty, he was amazed that he had practically no gray hairs.

"What are we having for lunch, Julieta?"

"As a good Brazilian cook, I'm making your favorite dish, sir, feijoada."

"Since you came into our lives on the farm, I can't imagine myself without your delicious feijoada."

"Oh, thank you," she said, embarrassed.

Later, when lunch was ready, Jack went upstairs and knocked lightly on Charlotte's bedroom door.

"Charlotte, lunch is ready. Shall we eat together?" he called, trying to keep his voice calm and welcoming.

The door opened slowly and Charlotte appeared, a little more relaxed than before. She gave a small smile, which made Jack feel that perhaps things were starting to fall into place.

"Thank you, Jack. I'm ready," she said, following him into the dining room.

They sat down at the table and Jack served lunch. Since it was her first day and they weren't married yet, she might not feel comfortable with the others at the table.

"What's this?" she asked, looking at the different food.

"Just try it, it's divine."

Curious, she picked up her fork and tried each item separately. Her eyes filled with pleasure as she tasted the delicious dish.

As they ate, the conversation slowly flowed, with Jack asking light questions about Charlotte's interests and hobbies, trying to get to know her better without pressuring her.

"So, Charlotte, what do you like to do in your free time?" Jack asked, taking a piece of bread.

Charlotte thought for a moment before answering.

"I like to read and spend time with the animals. I've always enjoyed helping out on the farm, taking care of the horses and chickens."

Jack smiled, pleased to find a common ground.

"We have lots of animals here. I'm sure you'll enjoy meeting them. And if you need any books, I can bring them from town for you."

Charlotte's eyes lit up slightly at the mention of animals and books.

"That would be wonderful, Jack. Thank you."

The meal continued, and slowly, the tension between them began to ease.

After lunch, Jack stood up and began clearing the plates.

"I'll take care of that. Why don't you take a walk around the farm? It might be good for you to get acquainted with the place."

Charlotte nodded, getting up from the table.

"I think I will. Thank you for lunch, Jack. It was delicious."

Jack smiled, feeling a small victory in that moment.

"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Enjoy the walk."

As Charlotte left to explore the farm, Jack returned to the kitchen, feeling a faint hope that in time, they could build a life together that was happy and safe.