CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY NINE – THE LAST CHANCE TO PROVE HIMSELF

As the last guests trickled out and the cleanup began, Charlotte found herself alone behind the bar, mechanically washing glasses. She heard footsteps approach and looked up to see Richard, his face etched with concern. "Charlotte," he began, his voice soft. "Can we talk about what happened?" Charlotte set down the glass she was holding, afraid she might shatter it in her grip. "What is there to talk about, Richard? You made your choice pretty clear tonight." Richard sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It wasn't like that. Sabrina was drunk, making a scene. I was just trying to diffuse the situation." "By humiliating me?" Charlotte shot back, her voice trembling. "By siding with her over me, in front of everyone?" "I wasn't siding with her," Richard protested. "I was just trying to keep the peace. It was your big night, I didn't want it ruined by a drunken argument." Charlotte laughed bitterly. "Well, congratulations. You managed to ruin it all on your own." Richard's face