The Day Our Promise Breaks

Chapter 196

"Eve!" Charles' voice cut through the air, a mix of worry and urgency as he scooped Evelyn into his arms. Her body was limp against him, and beneath his concern, a flicker of heartache surfaced, one he hadn't fully acknowledged until now.

"Evelyn," he murmured, his gaze softening as he looked down at her pale face nestled against his chest. Nearby, Brooks stood helplessly, hands falling to his sides. His own worry was etched across his brow. He knew she needed rest more than anything.

Brooks was well aware of Charles' stubborn streak; he wouldn't let Evelyn go easily. Any argument would just keep her from the rest she desperately needed. With a reluctant nod, Brooks stepped back, watching as Charles carried Evelyn away. The car sped off, leaving a trail of dust in its wake.

At Oakwood Manor, Charles gently lifted Evelyn out of the car. Dr. Nelson, who had been alerted earlier, was already waiting at the door, trailing behind as Charles entered the cozy warmth of the living room. Charles, ever careful, laid Evelyn on the couch with a tenderness that belied his usual demeanor.

Dr. Nelson wasted no time examining Evelyn, his frown deepening with each passing moment. Sensing the doctor's unease, Charles felt a chill settle over the room. "What's wrong with her?" he demanded, his voice low and edged with anxiety. Evelyn had never been this fragile before; now, she seemed to faint at the slightest thing.

like her last collapse at Maple Garden, it's

If she succumbed to depression, no amount of medication would help. To ensure Evelyn got the rest she needed, Dr. Nelson prescribed

didn't notice

lap. Her face looked so small and thin as if she might disappear if he blinked: Even through her thick winter coat, he'd felt her frailty. Now, without it,

Evelyn, lost in dreams, didn't respond, but silent tears trickled down her cheeks, soaking into Charles' trousers. Though cool, they

with tenderness. Unbeknownst to him, Dahlia watched this scene unfold from afar. She sat on the couch at Greenrose, eyes glued to the

even after Dr. Nelson left. Every tender gesture was like a

was only because Evelyn was the mother of Charles' child. But that final kiss shattered her

into believing she was the one Charles truly loved. That Evelyn was just a convenience, nothing more. But in that moment, she could no longer lie to herself. Charles cared for Evelyn in a way that went beyond mere