The Day Our Promise Breaks

At a restaurant, Brooks, ever the gentleman, gracefully pulled out a chair for Evelyn.

"Thank you." Evelyn expressed her gratitude as she took a seat.

Brooks was said to be the epitome of cultivation and chivalry, and indeed, his reputation was well-earned.

Brooks sat down.

After ordering their meals, neither of them spoke. Evelyn waited for Brooks to start a conversation about her work, but Brooks just kept gazing at her.

His gaze was gentle, not at all off-putting. Yet being stared at like this made Evelyn somewhat uncomfortable. She furrowed her brows slightly and met his gaze.

Her expression turned a bit cold. She wondered if he was playing with her. Could it be that his good reputation was undeserved, and he was actually a playboy? "Do you really not remember me?"

Just as Evelyn was secretly harboring doubts, Brooks spoke in a deep, unhurried, magnetic voice.

"Sorry?" Evelyn was puzzled and stared at Brooks.

What did he mean? Did they know each other?

"When do you plan to return my pen?" he asked again.

"What?" Evelyn was bewildered and completely at a loss.

Brooks' eyes dimmed slightly at her genuinely confused expression. Back then, Evelyn had eyes only for Charles.

"Never mind, I must have mistaken you for someone else." Brooks tactfully changed the subject.

Evelyn sat up straight, feeling a bit awkward.

"Ms. Evelyn, I would like to purchase your latest design for

think the price is too

than enough, Mr. Brooks.

time is worth it. Why wouldn't

was belittling Dahlia, feeling indignant on Evelyn's behalf. Evelyn picked up on it. Brooks slid a check across the table

up the check, offering Brooks a genuinely grateful smile. "Mr. Brooks,

up before taking one more glance at the

with tears. Charlie could finally

Evelyn stood up, bid Brooks farewell,

...

her composure,

at the communal sink, a strong hand suddenly wrapped around her waist, pulling her into the adjacent men's restroom. "Charles, have you lost your mind? Let go

She was both embarrassed and

moment she was dragged in, she closed her eyes.

"Click-"

Evelyn against

hot, and his deep, magnetic voice carried a chilling coldness. His actions were domineering,

let's get this straight. We're over! I have no ties with you now.

very nervous. She lowered her voice,

said yes, and you

looked like he

refusal to accept their breakup wasn't out of

felt he should be the one to make decisions. He could leave her, but not the

mercilessly replied, "Yes. I truly believe you're

finish her sentence, Charles seized her jaw and kissed

glared fiercely at Charles, and clenched