The Day Our Promise Breaks

Chapter 678

Under the cascade of fireworks, Charles glanced sideways, his eyes drawn irresistibly to Evelyn. She stood right beside him, watching their daughter with the same quiet wonder, a gentle smile resting at the corner of her lips.

A cool night breeze played with Evelyn's hair, softening her features in the shifting bursts of light. In that instant, with his beloved and their child so close, Charles felt a rush of happiness so real it hurt. For a fleeting moment, he let himself believe- maybe, just maybe, the three of them could start fresh.

His heart thudded, hope swelling.

He squeezed little Charlie's hand, steadying her as she craned her neck skyward. With his other hand, Charles reached-slowly, nervously-for Evelyn's. Sweat beaded on his palm as he hovered, barely daring to bridge the gap.

But before his fingers could graze hers, Evelyn flinched away as if burned. She didn't look at him, not even a glance, just quietly moved a step further, widening the space between them. Her retreat was swift and unyielding, drawing a clear line that left no room for misunderstanding.

Charles's hand froze in midair, his heart sinking like a stone.

fireworks kept blooming, but the warmth that had wrapped him

his hand back in silence, a bitter ache twisting

out, the celebration winding

surrendered to sleep. Her head nodded until, at last, she dozed off in Charles's arms, her breathing slow

the parked car, Evelyn quietly matching his steps. They didn't speak. The city felt hushed

driver was already waiting, door open,

her car seat, buckling her in with care and adjusting her head so she'd steen more comfortably. Only when he was sure she was safe did he straighten and turn to

started, his voice

off before he could finish,

this clear. I'm not stopping Charlie from seeing you or getting close to you. But that doesn't mean I've forgiven you. It