Question C

[Jonetta]

Kelly Ashton comes back to Baldwin’s Bridge to help care for her dying father who is a reluctant patient. How would you describe the relationship between Charles and Kelly? What do you believe is the reason for his behavior towards her?

[Sharon]

Throughout most of the story it doesn't feels like they have a relationship, but Kelly needs one. It is obvious that Kelly loves her father, but he pushes her away even though Kelly tries to break down the walls.

In the beginning, it feels like he is angry at the world. As the story moves on, it seems like Charles blames Kelly for marrying her mother. Eventually, we know that Charles loves his daughter, but didn't show it. I think he was afraid to show love after he lost Cybele the way he did.

[Robin]

Sharon, you hit the nail on the head. Charles was afraid to show his love for Kelly after what happened with Cybele. He didn't want to admit he loved someone, then somehow lose them again.

[Anita]

I would describe their relationship as very difficult. Kelly has strived her whole life to get her father to love her. With the exception of her "Golden Days" he has shown her very little affection or attention. He thought that by keeping Kelly at arm's length he wouldn't feel any relationship pain.

[Sharon]

Anita, those "golden days" tells a lot. Almost losing Kelly on the boat made Charles realize how close he came to losing someone else he loves.

[Anita]

You're right, Sharon. That was probably a tough event for Charles. I can see why he kept Kelly at a distance after that.

[Joanne Farley]

While reading the novel I really could not understand why Charles was the way he was. It really wasn't until the end of the book that Charles explain why. I often wondered while reading if after all that as a daughter I would bother - of course the answer is yes but still...

[Jonetta]

I felt bad for Kelly, having a father who once showed her love, affection and care but doesn’t seem to anymore. I can understand the fear that overtook him but was the alternative in her best interest? Not even close. She grew up thinking something was wrong with her. It was pretty selfish of Charles but that was his original nature.

Kudos to Kelly for hanging in there and I appreciate that Charles made amends in the end. But Kelly will reflect that damage for a long time.

[Sharon]

In the beginning, I thought Charles was one of those men who is angry at the world for some unknown reason. I understand why he was afraid to love, but he didn't realize how it was hurting his daughter. I felt so bad for Kelly. '

I agree Jonetta it was selfish.