CHAPTER THIRTY NINE – MEETING THE PARENTS

"I think that's a fine aspiration," Richard piped up, raising his glass. "To finding happiness in life, whatever form it may take. A toast?" The others murmured in agreement, glasses lifting in a halfhearted clink. Charlotte cast Kai a grateful look, squeezing his hand beneath the table. "So, Kai," Richard began again, "Charlotte tells us you're from Hawaii originally? What brought you all the way out to our little corner of the world?" Kai's shoulders relaxed slightly at the friendly curiosity. "Well, sir, after Char and I met and hit it off, she invited me back here to get to know her family and see where she grew up. Figured it was about time I experienced a real winter too," he added with a wry grin. Richard chuckled heartily. "You'll soon be begging to go back to your island paradise, mark my words! But I'm sure my girl can show you some East Coast charms to make up for it." "That's the plan," Charlotte finally spoke up, shooting her father an appreciative smile. "I want to g