HIS LADY LOVE AND THE OTHER WOMAN

Blark... Blark..! Blark....!!!,

Charlotte's alarm blared to life, " Another day had begun, and she wasn't ready. But the alarm's incessant ringing wouldn't let her linger in bed any longer. Time to rise and shine!"

Charlotte eyes fluttered open, with a groan. She slapped the snooze button, but the persistent beeping refused to cease.

With a grumble, she tossed off her cozy blankets and sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. The clock on her nightstand read 6:00 AM in bright red numbers.

She yawned, stretching her arms overhead, and swung her legs over the side of the bed.

Her foot knocked against something solid. She turned to see what it was, and her eyes widened in surprise.

A teenager, about her age, was sleeping soundly beside her, his chest rising and falling with each gentle breath.

Charlotte mind raced as she tried to process why they were sharing her bed. She didn't remember going to bed with anyone,

The boy's dark hair was messy, and his lips were slightly parted, revealing a hint of straight white teeth.

Charlotte's face grew hot immediately she noticed that he was cuddling her favourite pillow, she quickly scrambled out of bed,

"'Andrew!' She yelled, clenching her fist in frustration, With a malicious grin, Charlotte grabbed a pillow and whacked Andrew with it, trying to rouse him from his slumber.

"'Wake up, sleepyhead!' she yelled into his ear"'

Andrew woke up with a yelp at the echo of her voice making him roll out of the bed,

"Ooouuuuch..!!, it hurts". Andrew whined as he rubbed his ankle.

Charlotte immediately poised for defence with the pillow seeing that Andrew is awake .

Andrew's eyes fluttered open in panic, and he quickly scanned his surroundings before landing his gaze on Charlotte.

Andrew did you sleep with me ? Charlotte asked her eyes blazing with rage.

A confused expression crossed Andrew's face..on hearing the question, it was followed by a sheepish grin.

'Hey, Em... what's up?' he mumbled, rubbing his eyes

Yes or No...?, frustration straining in Charlotte's voice.

Buttercups...it actually hurts, I nearly had a panic attack.... Andrew whined in his usual melodramatic manner.

Charlotte's eyes narrowed at the nickname

"Buttercup" she pounced on Andrew. Andrew getting a hint of what was about to happen grabbed his own pillow and they engaged in a fierce pillow fight. Feathers filled the air as they screamed at each other.

Mrs Grace, "Charlotte's mother" hearing the commotion in Charlotte's room walked in and saw them fighting.

Immediately Charlotte sighted her mother with the edge of her eyes, she skilfully dropped her pillow and rolled away into the bathroom,

Andrew ran after her hitting the pillow aimlessly at her but she jammed the door shut to his face, with a scornful expression on her face as she did that .

"Bye bye Andrew" she blew him a kiss.

Loser..... loser...loser, Andrew cussed her thinking that she accepted defeat because he put up a good defense against her

What on earth happened here ?, Mrs Grace asked in surprise looking at Andrew and the teathers covering the whole room,

Andrew's jaw fell slack open, Mrs Grace's voice sent jolts of electricity down his system, Now he understood why Charlotte accepted defeat by rolling inside the bathroom.

'"That sly queen has evaded cleaning again" he gritted in frustration with a clenched fist,

"Morning Aunt'... Andrew greeted Mrs Grace trying to sound innocent.

"Get here Cleaned Up....you have twenty minutes".

..Mrs Grace ordered in a firm voice and left.

"Buttercupppppppppo!!!!" ,Andrew yelled in anger sending the crows away,

Charlotte grinned from ear to ear in the bathroom as she understood the frustration in the name,

Andrew reluctantly began cleaning up the mess, already planning his next move in their never-ending game of pranks and fun."

"Hey, Andrew, what's your plan for the day? Got any big plans?"'.... Charlotte whispered mid breakfast

Andrew snarled at her pretending not to hear her because Charlotte's mother was sitting with them in the round dinning table.

Charlotte pestered further...hissing and making signs at Andrew...and when Andrew lifted his gaze at her.

Andrew, what's your schedule like today? Got any free time?".

...she asked in a hush tone.

A smirk appeared on Andrew's lips "Practice your table manners, Buttercup. That's my advice for the day."

Mrs Grace looked at Charlotte when Andrew mentioned table manner, "Charlotte maintain some decency around the dinning table".

...she pointed out and

excused herself because she was already done with her breakfast.

Charlotte rolled her eyes at Andrew for exerting revenge on her for their pillow fight,

"Andrew that stunt you pulled off now ain't funny, Seriously though, are you busy?"... she asked with interest.

Andrew replied her teasingly..... "Oh, you want to know my schedule? Well, let me check my planner"... (He pretends to check an invisible planner) Ah yes, it says here I have a busy day of "IGNORING YOU QUESTIONS AND PERFECTING MY PILLOW-FIGHTING SKILLS.".... Andrew packed his plates and excused himself from the dinning table, Charlotte immediately followed him behind.

"Andrew, come on! Stop joking around I'm sorry, just tell me if you're going to check your exam results today?"

"Yeah, I'm heading to the school to see if I got into Springdale High. Wish me luck!"... Andrew replied with a hint of nervousness as he picked up his jacket.

"Bye Aunt Grace, am off"

..., Andrew told Mrs Grace

touching her feet in respect.

"Mama I will also head out, am already running late"..

Charlotte added kissing her mother's knuckles.

Mrs Grace patted the two children with smiles wishing them luck.

"Good luck, Andrew! I'm sure you'll get in. I've got a busy day at work, trying to meet my sales targets. Wish me luck too!".

.. Charlotte told him encouragely .

Andrew turned to look at her, "Luck? You don't need luck, Buttercup. You're a sales superstar!" He said with a smirk. "But hey, if you need any help with your sales pitch, I'm always here to lend a hand... or a pillow to practice your fighting skills."

That's my My Lucky Charm... speaking, thanks

Andrew.... will treat us to some ice-cream if things go well.

Buttercup...you better no go back on your words, you should promise.

"I said I will ", Charlotte muttered with a scoff,

"Were you cheated your whole life that you don't trust people".

"Hey, Andrew, can you do me a favor? Can you also check my exam results at my center? I kinda have a tight schedule ".. Charlotte pleaded.

"Sure thing, Buttercup! I'll make sure to check both our results. If we both pass, we'll celebrate with the ice cream you promised!"

"Deal! Thanks, Andrew. You're a lifesaver. I owe you one."

"No problem, Buttercup". Good luck to both of us! He heads to the bus stop.

"See you later, Buttercup!"

Charlotte waved at him with smiles "See you later, Andrew!"

. She stood and watched as his bus leaves, then she headed in the opposite direction towards the mall.

She just wanted to be sure that no one bullied Andrew while he was getting on the bus.

As Charlotte walks into the mall, she takes a deep breath, ready to tackle the day ahead

"Charlotte Ryder...Time to put on your salesperson smile and crush those targets!", she motivated herself .

Charlotte approaches the sales floor, where she sees Ethan Landon, a wealthy, good-looking teenager, lounging on a couch, looking entitled

Charlotte approached him with a smile, "Hi Mister, I'm your sales guide today. Welcome to our store!"

Ethan rolled his eyes at her and muttered, "Another annoying salesperson trying to make small talk."

Charlotte was taken aback by his repulsive demeanor,

"Uh, okay... well, let's get started then! What are you looking for today?"

"Show me something worth my time.".. Ethan muttered .

Charlotte tried to remain professional "I understand, Sir. Our designer section has some high-end Louis Vuitton pieces that might interest you...

Ethan stared at her disdainfully, "Louis Vuitton", You don't get it, do you? I'm not some clueless kid who settles for anything. I want the best, and I won't tolerate anyone who can't deliver.

I want something more edgy and customized ...the customer emphasized.

Charlotte was getting somewhat uncomfortable.

"I'm not sure we have anything like that..."

Ethan sneered at her,"Of course you don't. You're just a sales drone who doesn't know the first thing about fashion. Get me something worth my time, or get out."

Charlotte feels really uncomfortable and tries to find a way to escape the situation.

"Okay, well, let me know if you need any help finding anything... " She replied professionally stepping out of the way.

Ethan suddenly turned confrontational

"You know, you're really annoying. Can I just talk to your manager instead?"

Charlotte replied calmly, "Of course, Sir. I'll go get them for you."

She walks away, feeling frustrated and angry

As Charlotte walks away she grumbles frustratedly,

"Ugh, another entitled Jerk who thinks the world revolves around him. I'll just go get the manager and let them deal with him.

Oh, great sales skills you have there. I'm sure your manager will be impressed.... Ethan fired at her sarcastically.

Charlotte ignored his sarcasm,

"I'll be right back, sir."

Charlotte returns with her manager, who tries to placate Ethan's demand.

Master Landon, I understand you're looking for something a bit more... exclusive?

Ethan scoffed, "Exclusive? You mean like something that doesn't look like it came off the rack? Yeah, that's what I mean".

The Manager smiled. "Well, let me show you some of our more... unique pieces. He shows Ethan some high-end designer items.

Ethan wore an unimpressed look on his face the whole time,

'"Meh. These are okay, I guess. But I want something that'll really make a statement".

The Manager racked his brain for a while, "Well, let me check in the back. We might have some pieces that are a bit more... edgy".

Ethan nods, and the manager disappears into the stockroom. Charlotte rolls her eyes and tries to slip away.

Ethan called out to her ... Hey, salesgirl! Don't think you can escape me that easily.

"Of course, sir. I'll be right there'...she replied him with a sigh.

Charlotte reluctantly returns to help Ethan, hoping that her manager will come back with something that'll satisty him.

The Manager returned with a few select pieces. "Ah, Master Landon, I think I've found some items that might fit the bill". He shows Ethan some high-end, bespoke pieces

Hmm, these are more like it. But I still want something that'll really make a statement.

Well, sir, I have an idea. What if we were to customize one of these pieces to your exact specifications? We could add some unique embellishments or designs that would really make it stand out.

Ethan was totally intrigued, "Customize it? How would you do that?"

The Manager smiled at his question, "We have a team of skilled tailors and designers who can work with you to create a one-of-a-kind piece. It would be a true original,"

Hmm, that's not a bad idea. How long would it take?..Ethan replied considering the option.

"We could have it ready for you within a week, sir.", the Manager replied confidently.

Alright, l'll take it. But I better not be disappointed.

Charlotte was relieved "Great, Sir! I'll take your measurements and work with our team to create a truly unique piece". She takes Ethan's measurements and notes his specifications.

Manager was all smiles seeing Charlotte's competence, "Excellent! I'll get the ball rolling on this right away, Master Landon Thank you for your business.

"Yeah, yeah. Just make sure it's worth my time"... Ethan muttered with a smirk and left .

Charlotte and her manager breathe a sigh of relief as Ethan leaves the store, finally satisfied."

Well done, Charlotte! You handled that difficult teenager with ease...the Manager acknowledged her.

Thanks, Manager. I just tried to stay calm and think on my feet.

That's the spirit! Now, let's get to work on that bespoke piece. I have a feeling it's going to be a real showstopper.

And if turns out well you will receive a bonus .

Charlotte nods, feeling proud of herself for turning a difficult situation into a success

Charlotte hurried to the designers' studios, located in a section of the mall. With a determined look on her face, she burst into the first studio, where a bespectacled designer looked up from her sketches.

"Hey, Sarah! I need your expertise. I have a challenging project here," Charlotte said, handing over the measurements. "I need you to create a bespoke piece that fits these specs exactly. It's for a very particular client."

Sarah's eyes widened as she scanned the measurements. "Wow, this is quite a task! But I love a good challenge. Let me get to work on it right away."

Charlotte nodded, then dashed off to the next studio, where she repeated the process with another designer. She visited several studios, collaborating with different designers to bring her vision to life.

With each stop, Charlotte's energy and enthusiasm only grew, as she knew she was one step to smashing her sales target.

Charlotte after running around the mall to the designers she returned home completely worn-out and collapsed on the couch Andrew walked in and announced their results

Buttercup..!!, he screamed excitedly,

Charlotte raised her head groggily staring at him .."Wha...what is it?"

Buttercup, Buttercupp! Wake up! I have the best news ever!

Andrew held up a piece of paper, "We both got in! We're going to Springdale High!"

Charlotte sat up, suddenly alert. " What? Oh my gosh, that's amazing!"

'...she grabbed the paper from him to be

sure.

I know, right? I'm so stoked!. Andrew replied her with a grin

Charlotte passed so well in her scholarship exam into

Springdale but Andrew wasn't able to beat the scholarship score...so he will have to pay his fees.

Congratulations, Andrew! I'm super proud of you!..

Charlotte acknowledged laying back on the couch.

Thanks, Buttercup I couldn't have done it without your help. And speaking of help, how was your day at the mall?

Oh, it was a rollercoaster. I had to deal with some really spoiled brat, but I managed to turn it around and make some great sales...she said proudly raising her thumb.

Wow, you're a real sales superstar! I'm sure you'll crush your targets.... Andrew replied impressed with her sales tactics.

Thanks, Andrew. I'm just glad the day is over and I can relax now.

Andrew smiling back. "Well, you deserve it. You've had a long day. But Buttercups did you but the ice cream you promised earlier".

She let out a small laugh "You know I did!"

Andrew heads to the kitchen to get the ice cream while Charlotte settles back into the couch, feeling grateful for the opportunity into Springdale,

Thankfully her ticket to getting a full-time job has being obtained, if things work out well she will be able to get a good paying job after high school using Springdale's reputation.

Andrew returned with two ice cream cones, "Ta-da! Your favorite flavor mix, Buttercup!"

Thanks, Andrew!.

Anytime, Buttercup. So, what's the plan for tomorrow?

More sales superstar antics at the mall?

Maybe. I have to go in for a few hours, but then I'm free.

Want to hang out?... Charlotte asked scanning his facial expression.

Andrew grinned ,Absolutely! We can celebrate our acceptance into Springdale High in style.

Hmmmm, Sounds like a plan.

They enjoy their ice cream and each other's company,

Andrew feeling grateful for their friendship

Charlotte has being like Andrew's guardian angel eversince Andrew and his father moved into their neighborhood,

Andrew's father Mr Miller was a divorcee and had to carter for his son Andrew eversince his separation from his wife, And due to his unavailability as the sole provider, Andrew was bullied a lot as a kid making him all fragile.

But eversince they moved in to Cartersville which is Charlotte's neighborhood, everything changed,

Charlotte despite being the younger one never leaves an opportunity to beat up anyone that tries exploring Andrew's venerable side because Andrew almost behaves like a girl and so he always gets bullied for that by other kids,

And Mrs Grace has since played the role of a mother eversince Charlotte first brought Andrew home.

Andrew spend most of his days at Charlotte's house, since his father was not always around.

Mr Miller felt so grateful to Charlotte and her mother for the significant role they play in the life of Andrew.

Seeing that Andrew rarely stays home he started keeping most of Andrew's food supplies at Charlotte's house

Dad, Dad! I got accepted into Springdale High!,

Andrew screamed excitedly

He ran into their house, nearly colliding with his father, who was sitting on the couch, watching TV.

Whoa, slow down, son! What's the big news?

Andrew was almost out of breath, "I got accepted into

Springdale High!"

That's great, son! I'm proud of you.. Mr Miller patted him with a proud father look on his face.

Thanks, Dad! Charlotte got in too!.. Andrew added .

Mr. Miller was totally impressed "Well, well!

Congratulations to both of you!", so that means you will be going to Springdale together.

Meanwhile, at Charlotte's house...

Mom, Mama! I got accepted into Springdale High! And that too on a scholarship... Charlotte announced rolling her hair into a bun.

Mrs. Grace was all smile, oh Charlote, that's amazing

Thanks, Mom! Andrew got in too!

Wonderful! You two must be thrilled!, Good thing you will be going along with him, cause Springdale highschool kids have a reputation of bullying fragile ones like Andrew.

They better not mess with my Andrew else they will face the wrath of my fist, Charlotte warned with a determined look wearing her canvass.

Mama I'm out for work out, she muttered turning to leave .

Charlotte.!, her mother called her back, it's already late.

Charlotte smiled at her "Born ready, Mama!" She stretches the baton she had with her.

Be careful dear and don't take Cannon alley ...her mother warned Charlotte who already had a head phone over her ears.

Pheeeeew... Charlotte is really something, I know she will take that lane, I pray she doesn't run into trouble.... Mrs Grace muttered and turned to drying the clothes.

Charlotte smiled to herself as she took the Cannon Alley route, her baton at the ready. She knew it was a risky move, but she was feeling confident and prepared.

As Charlotte jogged down the dimly lit alley, she heard the sound of footsteps behind her. She knew she was being followed, and her instincts told her it was trouble.

Suddenly, a group of rough-looking boys stepped out of the shadows, blocking her path. They sneered at her, their eyes gleaming with mischief.

"Well, well, well. Look what we got here. Little Charlotte, all alone and vulnerable," one of them sneered.

Charlotte smiled sweetly, flashing her set of white teeth her eyes flashing with determination.

"I'm not vulnerable, Scums. I'm a force to be reckoned with."

With a swift motion, she pulled out her baton and began to twirl it expertly. The boys laughed, thinking she was just showing off. But Charlotte was just getting started.

With a fierce cry, she charged at the boys, her baton flashing in the light. She took down the first boy with a swift strike to the shoulder, followed by a series of rapid-fire punches and kicks that left the others reeling.

The boys were shocked and terrified as Charlotte's karate skills came into full display. She was a whirlwind of motion, her baton and fists flying in every direction.

In no time at all, the boys were fleeing in terror, leaving Charlotte victorious in the alley. She stood tall, her chest heaving with exertion, her baton still clutched in her hand.

Pheeeeew!!."That was fun," she said to herself, a grin spreading across her face. "But next time, I'll take the long route."

The next day, Charlotte was back at her sales post, determined to hit her target. She was focused and driven, her karate skills and baton-wielding prowess still fresh in her mind.

As she worked, Andrew waited patiently outside the mall, eager to spend time with his friend. Finally, Charlotte's shift ended, and she walked out of the mall, a smile on her face.

"Hey, Andrew! Ready to hang out?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Andrew grinned, relieved that Charlotte was safe and sound after her encounter with the rough-looking boys.

"Yeah, I'm ready! What did you have in mind?" Charlotte thought for a moment, her eyes scanning the options. "Let's go to the park! We can grab some ice cream and enjoy the sunshine."

Andrew nodded, and they set off towards the park, chatting and laughing as they went. As they walked, Charlotte filled Andrew in on her encounter with the boys in the alley

Andrew's eyes widened in amazement as Charlotte recounted her karate moves and baton-wielding skills.

"Wow, Buttercups, you're a total badass!" he exclaimed.

Charlotte chuckled, her eyes shining with pride.

"Hey, someone's got to keep the neighborhood safe!"

They reached the park and spent the afternoon lounging in the sun, enjoying their ice cream and each other's company. It was a perfect day, filled with friendship and adventure.

Meanwhile at the Landon Mansion, Ethan is seen in his room working on a maths problem when his sister walks in with her crutches,

As Ethan sat at his desk, struggling with his math problem, he heard a faint rustling sound coming from the doorway.

He looked up to see Avery standing there, her eyes fixed on him with a mix of concern and amusement. She had a habit of making a soft "tsk" sound with her tongue when she saw him struggling, and he heard it now as she took in the sight of his frustrated expression.

"Tsk, tsk, tsk... Ethan, you're thinking too hard again," she said, her voice gentle and teasing.

Ethan's gaze met hers, and he felt a familiar sense of comfort and understanding wash over him. He smiled slightly, his tension easing, and Avery smiled back, her eyes crinkling at the corners.

Ethan dropped his pen on the desk and walked over to the door.

"Brother, don't worry, l've got this," Avery said, her voice strained but determined.

But Ethan was already by her side, his eyes filled with concern. "No, Avery, you're my responsibility. I've got to help you," he said, gently taking the crutches from her and helping her to the bed.

Avery smiled weakly, her eyes grateful. "You're always so protective of me, Ethan. I appreciate it, but don't you think Avery will get jealous"

To Heck with Claire... Ethan cussed massaging Avery's leg

"You're not a burden, Avery. You're my sister, my best friend. I'll always be here for you, no matter what".

Ethan's face softened, his voice filled with emotion.

Ethan did you and Claire fight again,

Ethan sighed picking Avery's nose, Nah.... I just don't want to hear her name,

Avery looked at the math problem Ethan was working on and raised an eyebrow. "Wow, you're really struggling with that one, aren't you?" she teased.

Ethan blushed, but smiled. "Hey, it's harder than it looks!

But I think l've almost got it..."

Avery leaned in, her eyes scanning the paper. "Brother lend me a pen please"

Together, they worked on the problem, discussing equations and formulas.As they worked, they chatted about school, which was set to resume soon.

"I can't believe we're going back to school already," Ethan said, shaking his head. "Summer flew by!"

Avery nodded in agreement. "I know, right? But it's not like you are school freak ..."

Brother don't you think you should attend more classes

"Avery"

.. The teachers there suck, so I rather stick to my home teacher..Ethan objected .

But don't worry I will take you to school everyday and maybe I will try appearing atleast once every week.... Ethan added .

Okay then .. Avery smiled agreeing with him.

I will go take my medicine then, it's almost evening...

Avery stood up and started exiting Ethan's room.

Avery... Get ready tomorrow, we will go shop for your school supplies...Ethan told her winking a brow .

The next day Charlotte enveloped her resignation letter, she hoped to submit it immediately she reaches the Mall.

Meanwhile at Landon's Empire, Avery prepared decking herself up with the help of her maid,

Ethan had checked on her a couple of times but she was still looking for the right outfit,

"Brother I think I have worn everything in my wardrobe, I can't just settle on anything"... Avery complained despite the heaps of clothes in her closet.

Find something and put on ,We can additionally shop for clothes if there is still time...Ethan persuaded her.

At the Mall...unlike any other day it was bustling with Customers because school was resuming and Students and Parents flooded the Mall for supplies.

Charlotte's Floor Manager summoned all the salesperson in that floor, he handed over to them their pay cheque.

Charlotte got the additional bonus like he promised her,

He encouraged them for their hard work and dedication, and asked them to make that day's sale a success.

Sir I will like to see you for a while ... Charlotte told him after he dismissed them.

Okay.. go ahead, the Manager told her.

Sir I would like to... Charlotte was interrupted by the Manager's ringing phone.

Miss ...excuse me one moment, he picked up the call and his facial expression immediately changed .

"What?"

...Young Landon is in the mall, The Manager exclaimed over the phone.

He turned to Charlotte....Miss Ryder save this conversation for later ...go and bring Mr Landon's outfit from the designers. He's here already.

Charlotte approached Ethan who was waiting in the VVIP lounge chair with his legs crossed ...he had two body guards standing at the extremes of the room.

"Finally, my outfit is ready," Ethan said gruffly, not even acknowledging Charlotte's greeting. "I hope you made no mistakes"

"Good afternoon, Mister!" Charlotte said brightly, handing him a customized sleek black bag with the Mall's logo.

"Yes, everything is ready. I double-checked to make sure."

Ethan snatched the bag from her, not even thanking her. "Better be. You wouldn't want to get on my bad book today"

Charlotte's smile remained professional, but her eyes flickered with a hint of irritation. "I understand, sir. You can check it out in the changing room"

Ethan grunted and turned to the changing room, leaving Charlotte to wonder why some customers were so rude.

The outfit turned out perfectly fine and Ethan couldn't deny that staring at himself at the mirror.

Avery and her maids were picking up a few make-ups so Ethan decided to shop for some clothes for her.

He scanned the salespersons who were at his disposal and his gaze settled on Charlotte. She had Avery's body type except that she was a little taller than Avery.

"Hey salesperson with a bun" ..Ethan called out to her.

Charlotte maintained her polite composure, "Yes Sir"

"What's your size in UK designs ?", Ethan asked her in an indifferent tone.

Excuse me... Charlotte was already getting pissed unsure if she could handle him .

I need female clothes about your size...so what's your size.

"Small XL" .. Charlotte cut in .

Pick out some nice quality for me then... Ethan told her.

I understand you have high standards, Sir. However, I assure you that our store has a wide range of stylish and quality female pieces."

Ethan scoffed looking at the clothes Charlotte was showing him, "Quality? Ha! You mean the same design every other Mall has.

Atleast show me something fashionable, something that'll make her stand out."

"I'm not sure we have anything that fits your... unique taste. But I can show you some of our latest arrivals."...

Charlotte stated in frustration.

You call these "Latest arrivals? You mean these same old tired designs that every other store has? No thanks"...Ethan replied with a devilish grin.

Charlotte was totally exasperated by now,

"Mister, I'm trying my best to help you. But if you keep being so rude and demanding, I'll have to ask you to leave the store."