The Day Our Promise Breaks

Chapter 273

Everything that happened tonight was like a scene straight out of Brooks' daydreams. He and Evelyn were just like any other couple, cooking dinner together in the kitchen, sharing a meal, and doing the dishes side by side. These everyday moments were something he'd longed for over the years.

Turns out, people are always a bit greedy. When he couldn't have it, he managed to keep his feelings in check. But now that he could be close to her, even just minutes after parting, Brooks found himself missing Evelyn already. At nearly thirty, he felt a rush of teenage-like impulsiveness, something he hadn't experienced before.

Brooks tried to rein in his emotions, but his hands seemed to have a mind of their own. At the traffic light ahead, he abruptly turned the steering wheel, making a U- turn back to her place. Pulling up outside Evelyn's building, he spotted a familiar car-it was Charles'. In that moment, Brooks was relieved he had followed his gut.

He jumped out of the car and bolted up the stairs, too impatient to wait for the elevator. Reaching Evelyn's floor, he immediately saw Charles pestering her. With a sense of urgency, Brooks rushed up and grabbed Charles by the collar, yanking him back and delivering a swift punch to his face. Charles, caught off guard, stumbled backward.

By the time Charles regained his balance, Brooks was already by Evelyn's side, pulling her into a protective embrace. Evelyn, usually so guarded, leaned into Brooks, whispering softly, "Brooks..."

this, Charles felt a sharp pang in his chest. Evelyn clung to Brooks as if he were her lifeline, her body shaking like a leaf in the wind. "Brooks,

answered without

Charles's eyes narrowed, and he instinctively moved forward, intent on pulling Evelyn back. Seeing her so at ease in another man's arms ignited a fierce anger within him. But before he could get closer, Brooks's voice rang out, cold and sharp, "Charles, haven't you done enough to hurt

well. Just days ago, she had nearly slipped away, and the thought of losing her again sent a chill down his spine. He couldn't go through that a second

Charles hesitated, his steps

he suddenly didn't have the heart to fight for her anymore. Brooks scooped Evelyn up and walked away with determination. Charles stood there,

been ripped

...

Evelyn down the stairs, she nestled into him, trembling

step. "Brooks..."