The Day Our Promise Breaks

Evelyn hurried out the door, her steps brisk and urgent. As soon as she stepped outside, she spotted a sleek black Maybach parked at the curb. Rosa had arranged for it to take her to work. She quickened her pace, pulling open the car door and sliding inside.

The moment she settled in, Evelyn realized she wasn't alone. Her gaze shot up, and through the dim light of the back seat, she saw him—a tall, imposing figure leaning back, partially cloaked in shadow. It was Charles. He was holding an unlit cigarette. The filter bent out

of shape. His eyes bore into hers with an intensity that sent a chill down her spine.

Evelyn's face dropped, and she froze for a second. She had no intention of sharing a ride with him. But before she could make a move to get out, Charles was faster. He flicked away the cigarette, reached out with his strong hand, and grabbed her wrist. With one swift motion, he pulled her back into the car and hit the button to close the door.

"Drive!" he commanded in a deep, authoritative voice. The Jenkins family driver knew better than to defy Charles, so as soon as the order was given, the car rolled forward, the privacy screen sliding up to separate them from the driver.

Everything happened so fast that Evelyn was caught off guard and fell against Charles, her nose colliding with his solid chest. The impact stung, and she blinked back tears of pain and frustration. Using the back of the seat for support, she tried to push away from him, her face a mask of cool defiance.

But no sooner had she moved than Charles' arm snaked around her waist, pulling her back with an iron grip. His hold was unyielding as if daring her to try to break free. Despite her best efforts, Evelyn was trapped.

"Charles, what are you doing?" she snapped, struggling and breathing hard. It was a question she'd found herself asking more and more often.

Pinning her against the door, his voice was as chilly as the winter wind. "Evelyn, who do you think you are agreeing to a blind date Grandma set up? Hmm?"

she

date!" His voice was like ice, and his words left

last night, he had chosen Dahlia

who I am, Evelyn. I'm your man!" His eyes were ablaze with

Please, I'd rather not have you! You are disgusting." she retorted, her voice laced

I disgusting?" he laughed, though it was more a laugh of fury than

I haven't reminded you in a while?" His words struck

she

was determined

how far he was willing to go. The roomy back seat of the luxury car provided ample space for his intentions. Evelyn, still

pressed against the cold glass of the window, eyes blazing with anger. She reached back, trying to

intent on teaching

let go. He deftly grabbed a

from behind, each

still going on that date?" he