The Day Our Promise Breaks

Charles was just about to dive into the water when he noticed Evelyn standing up on her own. With a stern look, he firmly grasped her wrist. After a gentle pull, he lifted her out of the lake. He quickly removed her coat and wrapped her in his own to shield her from the biting wind. Surrounded once again by Charles' familiar scent, Evelyn instinctively resisted.

"Do you still want to cause a scene?" Charles tightened his grip around her waist, pulling her closer as he looked down at her. "Are you trying to call in sick on your second day at work?" Evelyn fell silent. Charles scooped her up and strode out of the garden. The cold weather had left the garden deserted, but the entrance was bustling with activity. Evelyn didn't want to be seen, so she pulled Charles' coat over her face. Charles noticed this small gesture, and his expression soured.

The manager had already arranged for a car. Charles carried Evelyn inside. As soon as they were seated, Evelyn moved away, pressed herself against the window, and instructed the driver, "Maple Garden, please." She turned her gaze outside, clearly avoiding any interaction with Charles.

"Turn the heat up all the way," Charles instructed the driver after a cool glance at the gap between them.

"Yes, Mr. Jenkins," the driver responded promptly, cranking up the heat. Evelyn's chilled body slowly regained warmth, but her damp clothes still left her shivering.

The sound made Evelyn tense up instantly, and she looked at Charles warily. "What are

car moved through the

in close. Their bodies drew near His nose almost brushed against hers, and their

muttered, "Charles!" while

fiery gaze, he slid her shoe and soaked sock off. As he held her ankle, his dark eyes locked on hers, his voice low and

had assumed he was about to make an inappropriate

wet shoe and sock. Evelyn's guard dropped a bit. But just as she relaxed, she felt his hand at her waistband. As her body tensed up again, his fingers swiftly undid the button of her pants Realizing his intention, Evelyn immediately grabbed his wrist, stopping him with a