The Day Our Promise Breaks

Dahlia shot Evelyn a glance, fully aware Evelyn couldn't hold her liquor well.

"Hey everyone, don't worry about the bill today. This round's on me."

"

Then, she let Charles' hand slip from her grasp and made her way back to her seat, grabbing a bottle to pour herself a full glass. Evelyn remained still, not moving an inch.

Dahlia's gaze landed on Evelyn, and soon enough, so did their colleagues'. Feeling the pressure, Evelyn reluctantly picked up her glass and took a small, half-hearted sip. She wasn't much for drinking and the glass she had earlier had already gone to her head. Dahlia downed her drink in one swift motion. As she set the glass down, she stumbled slightly and ended up in Charles' arms, unsteady on her feet.

She leaned into him, massaging her temple with a hand, and looked up at him with misty eyes. Her voice was soft and inviting. "Charles, I'm feeling a bit dizzy. Let's head home."

The words "let's head home" made it clear just how close they had become.

"Sure," Charles replied.

He wrapped a supportive arm around her waist, guiding her out of the room. As he turned, his gaze lingered on Evelyn once more.

She kept her head down, never meeting his eyes.

expression grew

...

out the door, everyone seemed to breathe easier. Even though they were curious about such a big shot, being in the same room with Charles

mostly stayed with the food, and no one pushed

the group. "I'm thrilled to be part of Carlisle Jewels and work alongside all of you. I look forward

Grace, she only filled her glass halfway with the little wine left.'m

her drink, feeling even more tipsy

was winding down, and soon, it was time to leave. Since they'd planned to drink, no one

they hailed and shared cabs. Those heading in

you," Grace said, sounding a bit out of it, as she opened the last cab full of

with three

the window. "Take care of Evelyn for

as

you, but my friend's just around the corner and will pick me up,"

car and drove off.

They