CHAPTER SIXTY ONE – CRITICAL WOMEN

The weight of numerous judgemental stares bore down on Charlotte. She opened her mouth to respond, but Julian beat her to it. "I believe we've heard quite enough on this topic," he stated in a clipped tone, placing a hand over Charlotte's on the table. "My wife's past is not up for scrutiny or debate. If we can't move forward with acceptance, I'd prefer we change the subject entirely." An uncomfortable silence fell over the table before Edward cleared his throat gruffly. "Yes, well then. Who's keeping up with the Democritus surgical robotics litigation?" As the conversation mercifully shifted to more businesslike matters, Charlotte couldn't help but notice the furtive glances and whispers still being exchanged amongst Julian's family members when they thought she wasn't looking. She shrank inward slightly, feeling very much the pariah despite Julian's support. The next morning, Charlotte straightened her robe and headed downstairs to the sunny breakfast nook. Maybe a fresh day woul