The Day Our Promise Breaks

The sharp scent of disinfectant in the air confirmed that Evelyn was in a hospital. She had just woken up, but her mind was still a bit foggy. Her last clear memory was in the car, with Charles taking advantage of her vulnerable state and trying to seduce her. Under the influence of the drug, her defenses fell away, piece by piece. But just when she thought Charles might get his way, she realized her period had started, making her stop resisting. Even if Charles didn't love her, there was no way he'd force himself on her during her period, so he had no choice but to take her to the hospital.

After that, everything was a blur. Evelyn didn't linger on the memories of being drawn to Charles under the influence. As she slowly sat up in bed, she glanced around the empty hospital room, a wry smile forming on her lips. How typical. Charles couldn't get what he wanted, so he just dropped her at the hospital and left without a moment's pause.

She didn't dwell on it and got out of bed. The drug's effects had worn off; she was fine now. As she left the hospital, a gust of cold wind hit her, and she realized she'd left her purse at the restaurant. Her phone was in it. She was without a dime, but just as she was figuring out how to get home, a black Maybach pulled up beside her.

The car door opened, and Brooks stepped out. His gaze settled on Evelyn, briefly scanning her under the dim streetlights. Once he confirmed she was okay, he spoke softly, "Let me give you a ride home." "Thanks," Evelyn replied, not hesitating to get into Brooks' car.

"Mr. Brooks, could you take me to the Jenkins Estate?" she asked. Rosa had promised to wait up for her. If she didn't make it back, Rosa would surely be worried. "Of course," Brooks replied, his voice gentle as ever.

The car merged smoothly into traffic. "I'm sorry about my tardiness, which gave Michael the chance to cause trouble. Don't worry, I'll make sure he's held accountable." Michael wouldn't get away with it easily.

events still haunted her, but she had no intention of

the ride

...

later, the

rolled up to the entrance of the Jenkins Estate. "Thank you, Mr. Brooks," Evelyn said, unbuckling her seatbelt just as Tony approached with

Rosa's butler. His status allowed him to stay seated and converse through the window, but Brooks unbuckled his seatbelt and stepped out giving a

If Brooks didn't care about Evelyn, he wouldn't bother acknowledging a butler like him. "Mrs. Jenkins heard you brought Miss Evelyn back and would love to invite you in for a cup of

was an elder, and Brooks' upbringing wouldn't let him refuse such

"Alright," Brooks agreed.

to invite Brooks to dinner