The Day Our Promise Breaks

Dahlia watched the car disappear into the distance, a slight smile playing on her lips.

----

"Mr. Brooks, I'm sorry. This blind date wasn't really my idea, and I feel bad for taking up your time. You can just drop me off at the subway station," Evelyn said to Michael, her voice full of regret.

"Funny enough, my family put me up to this, too. How about we grab dinner anyway, just to keep the folks happy?" Michael chuckled.

"Alright," Evelyn agreed, feeling more at ease with his response.

Michael drove them to the restaurant. They walked in together, keeping a comfortable distance between them, and headed to a private room that had been booked in advance. Ever the gentleman, Michael pulled out a chair for Evelyn. "Ms. Evelyn, can I get you some wine?" Michael asked politely.

"Thanks, but I don't drink," Evelyn replied with a smile, knowing her limits.

Michael ordered himself a bottle of red wine and thoughtfully got Evelyn a hot drink.

said, appreciating his consideration. Michael seemed well-mannered, and since Rosa had specifically

As they ate, Michael noticed Evelyn hadn't touched her drink. He raised his wine glass slightly. "Ms. Evelyn, it's a pleasure meeting you." His gaze was warm as

up her hot drink and gently clinked it

watched her, and his smile grew

hit her. Trying to shake it off, she inadvertently caused her

up, and

he stared at her. He was now much closer

but felt unsteady and had to grip the table to keep herself from

was definitely wrong with that drink. She realized she'd been drugged! "Are you feeling unwell? Let me take you home," Michael said, moving closer and wrapping an arm around her waist. His facade slipped, eyes revealing

the moment Sena had sent him Evelyn's photo, he'd been smitten. Her face,

off me!" Evelyn's eyes

creep. Her only thought was to escape. If she stayed

thinking, Evelyn grabbed a knife

the table and