The Day Our Promise Breaks

Chapter 667

Evelyn's lashes fluttered, but she didn't open her eyes.

Instead, she just hugged Charlie a little tighter, holding her close in silence.

She waited.

When it came to Charles, all Evelyn could do was this: if Charlie ever softened and wanted to accept him as her dad, Evelyn wouldn't stand in the way. That was the limit of what she could offer.

That night, Charles sat in his wheelchair by the bed, keeping quiet watch over mother and daughter.

Charlie slept soundly.

Early the next morning, the little one blinked her eyes open, still half-asleep, and snuggled instinctively into her mother's arms.

Charlie's movement woke Evelyn, who'd slept light all night, her mind full of worry.

"Morning, sweetheart," Evelyn greeted, her voice husky with sleep-just as she had every morning for the past five years. She leaned down and kissed her daughter's soft, chubby cheek.

"Morning, Mommy..." Charlie mumbled, her arms wrapping around Evelyn's neck in a practiced hug. She kissed Evelyn back, then nuzzled into her neck like a little kitten finding its favorite spot, breathing in that familiar scent that made her feel safe.

Home at last! She could stay with Mommy now-forever!

Feeling her daughter's complete trust, Evelyn's heart melted. She stroked Charlie's hair, resting her chin on the little girl's head, wishing she could just absorb this precious child right into her bones.

Her darling, her everything.

their morning ritual, Charles, who'd been slumped over the side of the bed, also woke up. He hadn't slept long-his eyes were red and tired when

at

impossible to ignore. Evelyn and

of his gaze and froze, their affection paused

first, and Charlie turned in her arms to

Their eyes met.

panic. He'd

but as the hours

of the night tear

toked by he

peaceful faces. He'd gotten greedy for this stoleno moment, and before he knew it, he'd dozed off right

belongs to s

Charles fumbled with the wheelchair controls, his voice

you were sleeping okay... just wanted to stay with you a little longer. I didn't mean to

in her mother's arms, listened. The relaxed grip

her face,

here! Go away!" Her voice rang out clear and firm, no

Don't

leaving, right now!" Charles stammered, stung by

the controls, then just pushed the wheels back with his hands, his gaze lingering on Charlie, desperately hoping she might look

door, Charlie only clung

She didn't