The Day Our Promise Breaks

Josephine was adamant that Eve head home to rest instead of staying overnight at the hospital. "You really can't get any decent rest here," she insisted. Eve's health had been on a rollercoaster the past few years, and the treatments she underwent had really taken a toll on her. Thankfully, her brother, Adam, had stepped in, encouraging her to build up her strength with self-defense classes, boxing, and even a bit of martial arts.

While Eve's condition had improved a bit, the road to full recovery was long and winding. The doctors had been clear: proper care and relaxation were crucial, and it might take three to five years for Eve to bounce back completely. That's why Josephine was always on Evelyn's case about getting enough sleep. "Good sleep is the key," she'd often remind her.

"Okay," Evelyn conceded, knowing full well that sticking around would just make her mom worry more. Her staying there would only add to Josephine's stress and disrupt her own much-needed rest.

Before she left, Evelyn quietly gave the nurse a few instructions and slipped her a little thank-you gift for staying outside the emergency room until she arrived. The nurse, pleased with the gesture, reassured her, "Ms. Evelyn, Mr. Brooks, don't worry. I'll make sure Ms. Josephine is well taken care of."

As Evelyn and Brooks exited, the nurse quickly peeked inside the envelope, only to find fifty dollars. She couldn't help but feel a bit let down, muttering under her breath about how the wealthy could be so tight-fisted. Evelyn's boyfriend seemed so loaded, yet her tip felt a bit underwhelming.noveldrama

Brooks led Evelyn to the car, and once they were settled inside, he wrapped her in a comforting hug. "Your mom's surgery is going to go just fine," he whispered softly.

"Yeah," Evelyn murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. Resting her head against Brooks' chest, the steady beat of his heart gradually soothed her nerves.

They stayed locked in that embrace for a while before Brooks gently released her, buckling her seatbelt and heading off to drive her home.

As the sleek black car pulled away, Charles emerged from the shadows. He'd been waiting there since leaving the emergency room, watching as Brooks and Evelyn left hand in hand and got into the car The dim streetlights barely

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illuminated the scene, but he could make out Brooks leaning in towards Evelyn after they were inside.

Initially, Charles thought Brooks was just helping her with her seatbelt, but as time ticked on and Brooks didn't pull away, the reality hit him-they were kissing.

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A cold realization swept over Charles. Two years ago, Evelyn had faked a relationship with Brooks to fool her grandmother. But now, it seemed the charade had become real. They were genuinely together. The idea was unbearable to Charles. How could Evelyn be with anyone else but him? He couldn't allow it.

Instead of going after them, Charles turned back toward the hospital, making his way to Andrew's office. Andrew, Rory's younger brother, was someone Charles often leaned on.

"Charles," Andrew greeted him as he entered.

"Andrew, I need a favor," Charles said, shutting the door behind him, cutting straight to the chase.

Later, as Brooks dropped Evelyn off at her door, he handed her a small package. "I found this new aromatherapy scent. Give it a try tonight," he suggested with a warm smile.

Even though Evelyn's health had seen improvements...