The Day Our Promise Breaks

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

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"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.

since Rosa had specifically picked him out,

after. As they ate, Michael noticed Evelyn hadn't touched her drink. He raised his wine glass slightly.

drink and gently clinked

sip. Michael watched her, and

her. Trying to shake it off, she inadvertently

was quick to react. He got up, and leaned over the table. "Ms. Evelyn, are

eyes darkened as he stared at her. He was now

and had to grip the table to keep herself from falling. Despite not drinking, she felt

said, moving closer and wrapping an arm around her waist. His facade slipped, eyes revealing a predatory glint. He ogled her

Evelyn's photo, he'd been smitten. Her face, her figure-were

off me!" Evelyn's

Rosa had picked such a creep. Her only thought was to escape. If she stayed in his clutches while drugged, the consequences could

thinking, Evelyn grabbed

table and