CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY SEVEN – SABRINA’S AGENDA

The morning sun streamed through the windows of The Rusty Anchor as Charlotte wiped down the bar, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of Richard and Sabrina. She had barely slept the night before, replaying their starlit conversation over and over in her head. While Richard's words had been reassuring, she couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something was still off. The jingling of the door bell pulled her from her reverie. Charlotte looked up, her heart sinking as she saw Sabrina saunter in, looking impeccably put together as always. "Well, if it isn't the village barmaid," Sabrina said, her voice dripping with false sweetness. "I thought I might find you here." Charlotte straightened her spine, determined not to let Sabrina see how much she affected her. "Good morning, Sabrina. What can I get for you?" Sabrina waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, I'm not here for a drink, darling. I thought we might have a little... chat." Charlotte felt her pulse quicken. "A chat?" "Yes, about