VI

Bella's lack of care and love for Uncle Charlie stings more than I like to admit. Uncle Charlie has done everything he can to show Bella how much he loves her. He's always been there for her, trying his best despite the distance between them. I can't understand why she can't see how much he cares. Growing up, Bella and I were never close, but we showed each other respect. Still, seeing her disregard the love Uncle Charlie has for her hurts more than it should.

I wake up early to help Uncle Charlie pick up the furniture I ordered yesterday for Bella's bedroom. The sky outside is still dark, and the house feels quiet and still. I drag myself out of bed and head to the bathroom, where I take a quick shower. The warm water washes away the remnants of sleep, and I feel slightly more awake. I dress quickly, pulling on my favorite sweater, and head to the kitchen.

Breakfast is simple-a piece of toast and a cup of coffee. I eat quickly, knowing I don't have much time. The cold air greets me as I step outside, and I cling tightly to my sweater, shivering as I climb into my car. The drive to Uncle Charlie's house is short, but it gives me time to think.

Time has changed so much. I miss my mom every day, but I am thankful for my dad and Uncle Charlie. They have given me so much love and support, and I don't know what I would do without them. The loss of my mom left a void in my life, but having them has helped fill that void. Uncle Charlie, especially, has been a rock for me. His unconditional love and support mean the world to me.

When I arrive at Uncle Charlie's home, I can barely contain my excitement. I knock on the door, eager to get started. Uncle Charlie opens it, and I can see the nervousness in his eyes. He climbs into the passenger side of my car, and I can tell he's worried about Bella coming to stay. But I'm determined to make her room perfect, to show her that she's loved and welcomed here.

"Morning, Uncle Charlie," I say, trying to lighten the mood. "Ready to pick up the furniture?"

He nods, giving me a small smile. "Morning, Carina. Thanks for helping out. I really appreciate it."

"No problem," I reply, starting the car. "Bella's going to love her room. You'll see."

As we drive to the store, the silence between us is heavy with unspoken thoughts. I finally break the silence, "How are you feeling about Bella coming to stay, Uncle Charlie?"

He sighs, his shoulders slumping slightly. "I'm nervous, Carina. I want everything to be perfect for her. I want her to feel at home here. But... I don't know if she'll ever see this place as her home."

I reach over and squeeze his hand. "She'll come around. We just have to give her time. This room makeover is a great start."

He nods, but the worry in his eyes doesn't fade. "I just want her to be happy. That's all I ever wanted."

"I know, Uncle Charlie. And she will be. With you here, how could she not be?"

We arrive at the store and spend the next hour loading up the furniture into the truck. Uncle Charlie points out pieces he's sure Bella will love, and I can see a glimmer of hope in his eyes. We chat about the colors and themes for the room, and it's clear that he's thought this through.

"Do you remember when we used to build forts in the living room?" I ask, trying to lighten the mood as we secure the last piece.

Uncle Charlie chuckles, "Of course I do. You and Bella always tried to outdo each other."

"We did," I laugh. "Maybe we should build her a fort in her room as a surprise."

He smiles, the idea clearly cheering him up. "That would be great. She used to love those forts."

On the drive back, we talk about the plans for the room, the little touches that will make it special. I can see Uncle Charlie relaxing bit by bit, his nerves easing away.

Back at the house, we start unloading the furniture. Uncle Charlie seems more hopeful, his movements quicker and surer. As we carry pieces up to Bella's new room, he talks about the future, about the things he hopes to do with Bella once she's here.

"Thanks for doing this, Carina," he says as we take a break. "I couldn't have done this without you."

"Of course, Uncle Charlie," I reply, wiping sweat from my brow. "I'm happy to help. Bella's family, and family looks out for each other."

He nods, his eyes full of gratitude. "I just hope she sees it that way too."

"She will," I assure him. "It might take some time, but she'll come to see how much you care."

As we finish setting up the room, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The room looks beautiful, a perfect blend of comfort and style. Uncle Charlie looks around, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.

"It's perfect, Carina," he says softly. "She'll love it."

I smile, feeling a warmth spread through me. "I hope so, Uncle Charlie. I really do."

As we stand there, looking at the finished room, I can't help but feel hopeful for the future. With time and love, I know Bella will come to appreciate everything Uncle Charlie has done for her. And I'll be there, every step of the way, to help make sure she does.

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