The Billionaire's Regret { Regret Series #1}

CHAPTER FIFTY-EIGHT

SEIZE THAT HAPPINESS WITH BOTH HANDS

Before you knew it, six months had swiftly passed in the blink of an eye. Charles and Kathleen had agreed with their daughter's decision of staying with one of them each week. The passing of time brought with it a sense of acceptance and growth, as both parents navigated the complex landscape of co-parenting.

Lana had settled into the routine smoothly, spending one week with Charles and the next with Kathleen. Although the arrangement was challenging at times, both Charles and Kathleen knew it was essential for their daughter's well-being. To their relief, Lana adjusted remarkably well, finding solace and stability in the love of both her parents.

Charles had taken the courageous step of beginning therapy. Recognizing the need for personal growth and emotional healing, he had set upon a path of self-discovery. His commitment to change was visible in the way he interacted with Lana, he was even more patient and understanding that warmed Kathleen's heart.

Meanwhile, Kathleen had inadvertently stumbled upon a surprising connection of her own. Two months ago, a charming man named Matthew had walked into her bakery, and she was instantly drawn to its warm ambiance. Their initial meeting had sparked an undeniable chemistry that continued to grow stronger with each passing encounter. Though their relationship was still in its infancy, Kathleen found solace and companionship in Matthew's presence.

Yet, the thought of Kathleen moving on with someone new had not been an easy pill for Charles to swallow. His heart ached at the prospect of losing her permanently, but he had resolved to handle his emotions with grace and maturity. If it was meant to be, he reasoned, destiny would find a way to bring them back together. In the meantime, he took solace in the fact that he had once been Kathleen's first love, and they shared the incredible bond of parenthood.

As summer wrapped its warm embrace around their lives, Charles and Kathleen found themselves face to face as another week ended and the time had come for Lana to transition from Charles' care to Kathleen's. Meeting at Kathleen's bakery, they exchanged smiles and pleasantries.

"I'm glad to see you're doing well, Charles," Kathleen remarked, her voice tinged with genuine warmth.

He nodded, his gaze filled with a mix of longing and melancholy. "I'm trying my best, Kathleen. For Lana's sake and my own."

Her eyes softened, understanding blooming like a budding flower. "Thank you Charles."

As they watched Lana joyfully run into the bakery, Charles dared to ask, "Kathleen, may I be honest with you?"

She blinked, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Of course, Charles".

He took a deep breath, gathering his courage. "I know our paths have diverged, and I can't deny the pain it has caused me. But I won't stand in the way of your happiness, Kathleen. If this new relationship with Matthew makes you happy, then I want nothing more than for you to seize that happiness with both hands."

Kathleen's lips trembled slightly, moved by Charles' selflessness. "Thank you, Charles. Hearing this means more to me than you'll ever know."

A bittersweet smile adorned his face as he whispered, "Just promise me one thing, Kathleen. Promise me that no matter what happens, we'll always prioritize Lana's well-being above everything else."

Her voice quivered slightly as she replied, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I promise, Charles. Lana will always be my number one priority".