《The Day Our Promise Breaks》


 Chapter 1

    My daughter Charlie was suffering from kidney failure, and before the surgery, her biggest wish was to spend her birthday with her dad at an amusement park, just the two of them alone. I knelt before Charles, begging him to fulfill our daughter''s wish, and he agreed.


    But on the day of her birthday, she waited for him in the cold until she fainted from coughing up blood. Still, he never showed up.


    Her condition worsened, and the emergency rescue failed.


    Before she passed away, with tears streaming down her face, she asked me, "Mom, why does Dad like Ms. Dahlia''s daughter and not me? Am I not good enough?"


    She left us with regrets.


    A video was ying on the cellphone that slipped from her small hand. In the video, her dad had rented out thergest amusement park, celebrating the birthday of his and Dahlia''s daughter.


    ...


    Only Evelyn was present before the cremation to bid farewell to her daughter''s body.


    She was dressed in an oversized ck down jacket, but it still couldn''t hide her emaciated figure. Her eyes, swollen and red from crying, were filled with reluctance.


    She took out a pair of hair clips from her pocket, leaned over, and gently ced them on her daughter. These clips were birthday gifts she had designed for her darling girl.


    "Happy Birthday, baby. Mommy will always love you."


    Evelyn bowed her head and gently kissed her daughter''s forehead. The cold touch brought another surge of tears.


    Time was running out.


    A male staff member came over kindly and reminded her, "Please ept my condolences. Has the child''s father arrived yet?"


    The records showed that the child had a biological father.


    "He won''te!" A sh of coldness passed through Evelyn''s eyes.


    "Aren''t you going to wait a bit longer?"


    He, too, was a father. If he was not able to see his own daughter for thest time, he would surely regret it for the rest of his life! The staff believed so.


    "Wait for him?" Evelyn scoffed coldly, "It was minus ten degrees yesterday, and my daughter stood at the amusement park entrance waiting for her dad. She stood from morning till night, until she fainted from coughing up blood, and he never appeared."


    "Do you know where he went? He rented out the whole Disney World to celebrate the birthday of the daughter he had with his first love!"


    The staff member was at a loss for words. He never imagined that such an unworthy father could exist in the world.


    Evelyn''s fingertips reluctantly touched her daughter''s pale, stiff face, and she chokingly murmured, "Do it. I don''t want my daughter to suffer more."


    Evelyn hoped her darling daughter would be born into a good family in her next life, and have a loving and caring father who would never to let her wait in vain again.


    ...


    It was the deep winter, so it had gotten dark soon after Evelyn left the funeral home. Evelyn hugged her daughter''s urn tightly in the back of the taxi. She stared nkly out the window, her eyes filled with sorrow.


    As they passed near Disney World, traffic was jammed, and the car slowly came to a stop. Right in front of her was a huge electronic screen, currently broadcasting news.


    [Jenkins Enterprises CEO celebrates his beloved daughter''s birthday by renting out the entire Disney World for fireworks!]


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    "Boom!"


    Countless splendid fireworks exploded in the sky, followed by a message appearing in the night sky.


    "Happy Birthday to Sandy!"


    Under the brilliant fireworks, Sandy was wearing the custom-made Elsa princess dress that Charlie had longed for. She looked blissfully happy as she held one of Dahlia''s hands in one hand and one of Charles'' hands in the other.

 Chapter 2

    As the second round of fireworks soared into the sky, exploding in a burst of dazzling colors, Charles and Dahlia simultaneously bent down to kiss Sandy. One on the left and one on the right, their affectionate kissesnded on Sandy''s cheeks.


    The moment was frozen in time.


    "Woah. Mr. Jenkins really dotes on his daughter."


    "Well, I heard Dahlia is the love of his life."


    Envious voices filled the air.


    Evelyn''s eyes turned bloodshot as she tightly wrapped her daughter''s urn in her down jacket. Her heart was twisting in pain.


    She covered the front of the urn with her hand, whispering softly, "Charlie, don''t look!"


    She didn''t want her daughter to be sad.


    ...


    It was ten o''clock at night when Evelyn returned to Oakwood Manor, the vi she shared with Charles.


    Dragging her heavy steps upstairs, she entered her daughter''s room. After tidying up her daughter''s belongings, she sat on the little bed holding her daughter''s urn all night long. The next morning, Evelyn came downstairs, bumping into a tall and handsome figure.


    It was Charles.


    He didn''t look at her, his expression as cold as ever. He did not say much but asked sinctly, "Where''s Charlie?"


    Evelyn let out a mocking, coldugh. It had been three days since their daughter died, and he only just remembered Charlie.


    Charles frowned slightly, displeased at Evelyn''s re. Was she still angry about him missing out on Charlie''s birthday the day before yesterday?


    Charles didn''t argue with her. Suppressing his displeasure, he said in a deep voice, "I came to take Charlie to the amusement park."


    Hearing ''amusement park,'' Evelyn''s heart twisted in pain. She could never forget the scene she saw when she rushed into the amusement park after the staff called her.


    Her daughter had fainted in a pool of her vomited blood, and Charles was nowhere to be seen.


    Charlie had said over the phone in the morning. "Mommy, Daddy arrived on time. I''m having a lot of fun with him. Don''t worry," At that moment, Evelyn realized they were actually lies.


    Her daughter lied to her for the first time, just so she could spend time alone with her dad. Charlie believed he wouldn''t lie to her and would definitelye.


    Charlie stood foolishly waiting in the cold wind from morning till night.


    Evelyn''s eyes gradually became bloodshot as she red at Charles with rage. Her voice was cold as ice. "She''s dead! Where are you going to take her? To the underworld?" "Evelyn!!" Charles was furious.


    Wasn''t it just one missed appointment? Why would she curse her own daughter to death over such a trivial matter?


    She was Charlie''s mother. How could she say such a thing?


    Charles stared at Evelyn as if she were a madwoman!


    "You are being unreasonable!"


    Charles couldn''t bother with the raging Evelyn. He gave her a cold look as a warning not to go mad. Then he walked upstairs, intending to call Charlie himself.


    He walked just a few steps away when his phone rang.


    The special ringtone made him stop immediately, and he pulled out his phone from his pocket.


    He answered in a second. The sweet, coquettish voice of a little girl filled the quiet living room. "Daddy, I miss you. Will youe and spend time with me?"

 Chapter 3

    Charles'' once stern expression softened instantly, and he agreed without hesitation. "Of course!"


    As soon as he finished the call, he turned and left briskly without hesitation.-


    Once again, he chose the daughter he had with Dahlia, leaving Charlie behind.


    Evelyn stood still, clutching the urn tightly to her chest and gently patting it in a tender motion as she silentlyforted her daughter.


    Ever since Dahlia returned from abroad with Sandy, Charles had shown them absolute favoritism. He would rush over immediately at their mere call, no matter howte or what he was doing. Evelyn didn''t mind being neglected, but her heart ached for her Charlie.


    She was so good and so understanding. Yet, her father had hurt her time and again.


    Fortunately, this was thest time.


    ...


    Central Hospital, VIP Ward


    Charles entered with a chill in the air.


    Dahlia was soothing Sandy. When she saw him, she asked in surprise, "Charles, what are you doing here? Didn''t you say you were going to make up for Charlie''s birthday this morning?"


    She immediately realized her mistake and looked sternly at her daughter on the bed. She scolded, "Sandy, did you secretly call your dad again?"


    "Daddy..."


    Sandy threw herself into Charles'' arms, looking up at him with teary eyes. Her voice quivered as she whined softly, "I get scared when you''re not around."


    Charles held Sandy gently, patted her back tofort her, and said to Dahlia, "Sandy''s only five. It''s normal for her to be scared of staying in the hospital. I''m not going anywhere today. I''ll stay here with her. As for Charlie... there will be other opportunities." His words made Dahlia think of her daughter''s condition, and she couldn''t bear to scold her any further.


    She tenderly touched her daughter''s face, then turned to Charles, her eyes full of gratitude. "Charles, we''re so lucky you found a matching kidney for Sandy. Without you, I fear Sandy might have..."


    Her voice trailed off as tears quickly filled her eyes. She was on the verge of crying.


    "I''m here. Nothing will happen to Sandy," Charles promised tenderly.


    "Charles, it''s so good to have you." Dahlia choked up, leaning into Charles'' shoulder.


    Charles gently patted her back, and as Dahlia wrapped her arms around his waist, he stood up and said, "I''ll go talk to the specialist team about Sandy''s condition. Take Sandy downstairs to y for a bit. I''lle find youter." "Daddy,e back soon."


    With Sandy''s sweet voice behind him, Charles left the ward and entered the elevator.


    As the elevator doors closed on his side, another set of doors opened, and Evelyn hurriedly stepped out. She went straight to the office of Charlie''s attending physician.


    "Ms. Evelyn, you can''t go in there."


    Ignoring the nurse''s protest, Evelyn barged in. She rushed to the doctor, her eyes red, pleading, "Dr. Schules, please tell me, who took Charlie''s kidney?"


    If Charlie''s kidney hadn''t been suddenly taken away, she wouldn''t have died.


    "Dr. Schules, please." When Dr. Schules remained silent, Evelyn suddenly knelt on the floor. She was willing to do anything to get an answer.


    "Ms. Evelyn, please don''t do this. I honestly don''t know," Dr. Schules said quickly, helping Evelyn up. His words sounded sincere.


    Staring at Evelyn, who had rapidly lost weight in just a few days, he sighed deeply. He felt deep sympathy for Evelyn.

 Chapter 4

    Evelyn''s daughter had finally found a matching kidney donor, but just before the surgery, it was taken away by someone else. Her daughter died on the operating table. Such a sweet and well-behaved little girl was gone just like that. No mother could ept that.-


    Unfortunately, he truly didn''t know the details. All he had heard was that the daughter of some VIP client also happened to be a match., which was something he couldn''t disclose. Evelyn couldn''t get an answer. Her heart was heavy as she left Dr. Schules'' office.


    Walking past the hospital wing downstairs, a small figure suddenly charged at her like a cannonball.


    Evelyn instinctively reached out to help. Before she could touch the child, her hand was forcefully pped away, and a familiar female voice rang in her ear, "Don''t hurt my daughter!" It was Dahlia.


    Evelyn withdrew her hand, her expression solemn as she looked over.


    Dahlia was standing defensively, holding Sandy close as if facing a great enemy. She stared at Evelyn while desperately trying to restrain herself. "Evelyn, I know you''re angry, but don''t take your anger out on my girl. Sandy is just a child. " It''s the same old act.


    A slight smirk of scorn curled Evelyn''s lips; she didn''t need to look around to know Charles must be nearby.


    Sure enough. As soon as Dahlia finished speaking, an annoyed reprimand came from behind her. "Evelyn, what are you doing now?"


    Charles strode over quickly, positioning himself protectively in front of Dahlia and Sandy. He gazed towards Evelyn with eyes filled with a cold warning.


    Charles'' boundless protection for Dahlia and her daughter inevitably caused a pang of pain in Evelyn''s heart. She clenched her fists.


    Evelyn didn''t want to argue with him now for Charlie''s sake, and turned to leave. Suddenly, she saw Sandy clutching Charles'' leg, looking up with pitiful eyes. "Daddy, is Ms. Evelyn mad at me because you didn''t spend my birthday with Charlie? Is Charlie upset? It''s all my fault..."


    Evelyn''s expression turned icy. This scene reminded her of the first time Charlie met Sandy.


    Sandy had fallen into the swimming pool, and Charles had arrived just in time to save her.


    At that time, Sandy was crying and apologizing to Charlie, "Did I do something to upset you, Charlie? I''m sorry, it''s all my fault."


    While apologizing, she insinuated that Charlie had intentionally pushed her.


    Charles was furious. He didn''t listen to Charlie''s exnation at all and scolded her harshly. As punishment, he made her stand outside alone and reflect on her actions. Charlie stood outside for hours, and Charles ignored herpletely. Charlie fell ill the day she returned home, running a high fever for three days and nights.


    When Charlie woke up, she cried convulsively. "Mommy, please believe me. I didn''t push Sandy. Sandy pushed me and fell into the pool by herself. It wasn''t me, really." "Baby, don''t cry. I believe you!"


    Evelyn held her daughter andforted her repeatedly, but Charlie still couldn''t stop crying. "Why doesn''t Daddy believe me?"


    What hurt Charlie most was that her beloved father didn''t believe her.


    The memory made Evelyn''s gaze towards Sandy grow even colder. Frightened, Sandy burst into tears.


    Dahlia was extremely distressed and rushed in front of Evelyn to block her gaze. "Evelyn, I told you if you''re angry, take it out on me..."


    "p!"


    "p!"


    "p!"


    Evelyn did just that. She raised her hand and delivered several heavy ps across Dahlia''s face.

 Chapter 5

    "Evelyn, have you lost your mind?" Charles snapped back to reality, his voice cold as ice.


    He reached out and firmly grasped Evelyn''s hand, which was about to continue pping Dahlia. His gaze upon her was fierce and unyielding. Charles was always so poised and indifferent but transformed in an instant for the one he loved.


    Tears welled up in Evelyn''s eyes. She faced the man she had loved for ten years, and a wave of sorrow washed over her.


    "I guess I''ve been crazy a long time ago."


    Suddenly, she raised her hand and pped Charles across the face with all her might.


    "Charles, it''s over between us."


    She had wanted to say this sentence to him since the moment their daughter died. From here on out, they would go their separate ways!


    Evelyn withdrew her hand, her palm numb from the force.


    It was the first time Charles had ever been pped by a woman. His left cheek visibly reddened, and he red at Evelyn with an indescribable harshness.


    Evelyn didn''t say anything more and turned to leave. She knew Charles wouldn''t believe her. After all, he truly believed that she had schemed to be with him and hooked up with him by any means necessary. Plus, she had stayed by his side for the past five years like a mistress.


    In his mind, how could she bear to end things with him?


    ***


    Three dayster, at Oakwood Manor, Charles was exhausted and returned home to an empty house.


    Evelyn had taken Charlie and left.


    His expression darkened as he pulled out his phone and, on his own initiative, sent Evelyn a message for the first time.


    [Come back.]


    The message was brief, carrying an authoritative tone.


    As soon as he sent it, a red exmation mark popped up. Then, a line appeared below: [Message sent but rejected by the recipient.]


    Charles was stunned. Had Evelyn actually blocked him?


    His expression turned even colder, and he made a call. It was cut off after just one ring. After trying several times, Charles realized that Evelyn had blocked his calls, too! Well done!


    He hadn''t even confronted her about her following him to the hospital and causing a scene with Dahlia and Sandy, and now she was set on making a scene?


    ...


    Three days earlier, Evelyn had left Oakwood Manor and moved to Maple Garden. This was her foster mother''s house.


    Her foster mother had been a servant for the Jenkins family and had taken care of Charles'' grandmother Rosa.


    At the age of eight, after escaping from a corrupt orphanage covered in bruises, Evelyn encountered her foster mother and Rosa.


    Rosa saved her, and dealt with the corrupt orphanage, using the influence of the Jenkins family.


    Evelyn has nowhere to go, so her foster mother took her in. She followed her foster mother to the Jenkins family''s home. Then her foster mother passed away, and the house was left to her. After tidying up the house, Evelyn went downstairs to dispose of the trash and was about to head back up when her wrist was suddenly gripped forcefully. Caught off guard, she stumbled.


    A man''s voice, filled with obvious annoyance, sounded above her. "Evelyn, who gave you the courage to block me?"


    Evelyn steadied herself and looked up at the man. Her gaze was calm, like still water.


    She didn''t answer his question but instead spoke in an even tone, "Charles, let go."


    Charles met Evelyn''s gaze, and his eyes darkened. He didn''t let go but instead tightened his grip subconsciously. Suddenly, a sharp pain shot up from his foot.


    It was Evelyn. When he wouldn''t let go, she lifted her leg and forcefully stepped on his foot with all her might.


    Charles was in pain and instinctively loosened his grip. Evelyn took the opportunity to break free and quickly headed upstairs.


    "Evelyn!" Charles'' voice deepened, and he quickly caught up to her, reaching out again.


    "Don''t touch me!" Evelyn, on guard, quickly dodged.


    Charles watched her avoid him as if avoiding a gue. His voice was tinged with amusement. "Evelyn, is there a ce on you I haven''t touched, hm?"

 Chapter 6

    Wordsden with unspoken intentions carried a tint of sensuality. Evelyn couldn''t help but feel a blush creeping up to her earlobes.


    Charles watched Evelyn''s shy demeanor, and his eyes darkened. A turmoil was brewing within.


    Feeling his gaze, Evelyn clenched her fists tightly, her voice cold and firm. "Charles, we''ve broken up."


    The implication was clear. He had crossed a line.


    Having said that, Evelyn turned around and hurried upstairs.


    Charles watched her retreating figure and leaned against his car. His gaze was murky and unreadable.


    ...


    Evelyn opened the door and was about to close it when arge hand stopped her. Charles had followed her upstairs.


    Without giving Evelyn time to react, he forcefully pushed the door open, stepped inside, and opened the exquisite gift box in his hand. "Charlie, look what Daddy has brought you."


    Silence filled the room. There''s no response.


    Charles paused, a hint of confusion on his face.


    Although Charlie didn''t throw herself into his arms for cuddles like Sandy did, she would always rush over at the sound of his voice. She would look up at him with adoring eyes and softly call out, "Daddy." "Hasn''t Charlie woken up yet? I''ll go wake her."


    Charles lowered his voice, ced the gift box on the coffee table, and headed to the bedroom.


    What he found was not surprising. The bed was neatly made, and Charlie was not there.


    His gaze swept around. He didn''t find anyone in the room but noticed Charlie''s clothes hung next to Evelyn''s in the half-open wardrobe.


    "Where''s Charlie?" Charles stepped out of the bedroom, looking towards Evelyn.


    She still stood by the door, her gaze on the gift box. Her expression was unreadable. "Charlie? You''ll never see her again!" Evelyn''s voice was soft yet cold. "What do you mean?" Charles'' expression darkened instantly.


    Was she hiding Charlie?


    Evelyn didn''t answer. She walked to the table, her hands trembling as she picked up the Elsa princess dress from the gift box, her eyes reddening.


    This was the birthday gift Charlie had wanted the most. Charles had promised to give it to Charlie, but in the end, Sandy had worn it.


    Now, Charles brought the worn dress for Charlie. What did he think of her?


    "Charles, Charlie doesn''t want this!"


    Evelyn was hurt and lost control. She threw the dress and the box away like trash.


    The urn with her daughter''s ashes was ced on the side table. She didn''t want her daughter to see this.


    Charles couldn''t stop her in time and watched as the box fell to the floor. The dress he had specially made for Charlie fell out andnded on an unextinguished cigarette butt, burning arge hole in it. "Evelyn, have you had enough?!" Charles'' eyes were filled with anger, his brows furrowed, and a storm was brewing in his gaze.


    "Just leave." Evelyn ignored Charles'' anger and coldly ordered him to leave.


    Charles'' expression was terrifyingly cold. As the atmosphere was about to freeze over, his phone rang. It was Dahlia calling.


    Charles nced at Evelyn, and answered the phone in front of her. "Dahlia." His tone was gentle, but his gaze towards Evelyn was cold.


    Dahlia asked softly, "Did you pick up Charlie? Disney just called me to ask when you and Charlie would arrive so they could prepare in advance." "No, Charlie isn''t here." Charles'' gaze remained on Evelyn.


    Watching her still feigning indifference, his gaze grew colder. "Cancel the Disney ns. I''ming to be with you and Sandy now."

 Chapter 7

    Then, he ended the call.


    Before leaving, Charles dropped a cold sentence. "Evelyn, if you want to y this, I won''t pick up Charlie''s call again."


    He turned and left without hesitation.


    Just as Charles stepped out, a loud thud sounded from behind him. Instinctively turning back, he saw Evelyn, who had been fine moments ago, now lying on the ground with her back to him. "Evelyn, I warned you not to use these low tricks in front of me."


    Evelyny on the cold floor, her consciousness not yet fully faded. Hearing Charles'' words, she felt a bone-chilling chill surge through her body. Clearly, he thought she was faking fainting to keep him there.


    In his eyes, Evelyn was just a malicious woman who would stoop to any level for him.


    Five years ago, he believed she tried to break him up with Dahlia and drugged him on his and Dahlia''s anniversary. She slept with him and drove Dahlia away. Dahlia was left to fend for herself abroad, giving birth prematurely to Sandy, who was frail and suffered greatly. Five yearster, Dahlia returned to the country with Sandy.


    Charles believed Evelyn had encouraged Charlie to fake an illness to vie for attention against the genuinely ill Sandy, driven by jealousy.


    Evelyn couldn''t exin what happened five years ago.


    But she had tried more than once to exin to Charles that Charlie wasn''t faking her illness. She was truly sick.


    Charles would never believe her.


    Evelyn tried to get up, about to tell Charles to leave, but her body was weak and powerless, and her attempt to move made her dizzy, and she fell into unconsciousness.


    Outside, Charles saw Evelyn motionless and frowned. He strode back and pulled her up from the ground.


    "Evelyn, don''t think just because grandma is protecting you, I wouldn''ty a hand on you!"


    Before Charles could finish his cold, heartless words, he noticed Evelyn, whom he had just pulled up, slump down again as he loosened his grip. He instantly cooled down.


    Instinctively, he reached out, catching Evelyn in his arms before she hit the ground again.


    He stared at Evelyn in his arms, looking pale and with her eyes tightly shut. In that moment, Charles was certain that Evelyn wasn''t faking it.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Dr. Nelson hurried to Maple Garden. Upon entering, he immediately went to the master bedroom to examine Evelyn.


    After a thorough check, he stood up.


    "What''s going on with her?" Before Dr. Nelson could exin the condition, Charles spoke first.


    His voice was indifferent. He seemed to ask casually and did not really sound concerned, but Dr. Nelson didn''t dare to take it lightly. He had been the Jenkins family''s personal doctor for twenty years, having watched Mr. Charles grow up. At the age of ten, Charles had been in a car ident. Charles'' mother died in that ident, and he was missing.


    Everyone said Charles was dead, but Rosa didn''t give up. She insisted on searching for half a year and finally found him in Twin Bridges.


    Charles had lost his sight when he was found, and his personality became unpredictable. He was prone to mood swings.


    Rosa sought out famous doctors, and after half a year of treatment, Charles was cured.


    The first thing Charles did after regaining his sight was to have the bodyguard who brought him back drive him to Twin Bridges.


    For the first time since he was found, Charles had a spark in his eyes.


    However, when Charles came back, the light in his eyes was gone again. He couldn''t find the mother and daughter who had saved him. They had suddenly moved away and disappeared without a trace.


    Since then, thest bit of warmth in Charles had faded. He became even more indifferent and aloof, keeping people at a distance.


    Until Evelyn returned to the Jenkins family with Rosa.

 Chapter 8

    Aside from Rosa, Evelyn used to be the only one who could get close to Charles.


    "Mr. Charles, Ms. Evelyn fainted due to being overly distraught and not resting well. She just needs a few days of good rest, and she''ll be fine."


    When he heard about her distress, Charles'' gaze deepened significantly. She was stubborn to the core.


    "Mr. Charles, do you need someone from the family estate toe over and take care of her?" Dr. Nelson asked.


    In the past, Charles doted on Evelyn. He would personally take care of her whenever she was ill. But recently, Charles'' detest for Evelyn becamemon knowledge.


    "Tjhere''s no need for that," Charles said in a calm voice. He gave Dr. Nelson a look, signaling him to leave.


    ...


    Evelyn slept restlessly, trapped in a nightmare.


    In her dream, she returned to the day Charlie died. Charlie''s condition worsened due to a high fever, and she required immediate surgery. However, the doctor told her that the kidney donor had suddenly backed out, making the surgery impossible. Evelyn''s world copsed. At that moment, she thought of Charles. She kept dialing his phone, hoping he could find a donor for their daughter, but no one answered.


    Charlie couldn''t wait any longer. Her little hand slipped from Evelyn''s, and she closed her eyes forever as shey in her arms. Evelyn''s heart was shattered.


    Evelyn held her daughter tightly, crying her heart out, unwilling to ept this reality. She kept calling her daughter''s name, begging Charlie not to leave her. She kept rubbing her daughter''s small body, trying to keep it warm, But no matter how hard she tried, Charlie slowly lost warmth in her arms, bing stiff and cold.


    Charlie was truly gone.


    ...


    Charles was woken up by Evelyn''s crying.


    He had been stressed and restless these past few days at the hospital and was hardly sleeping well. Just when he had fallen asleep, he was woken up again.


    He opened his eyes with a frown, annoyed, and grabbed Evelyn''s arm as shey in his embrace. "Evelyn, what are you fussing about now¡ª"


    He was about to push her away when he noticed her tear-streaked face.


    Charles'' eased his grip. Evelyn was crying with profound grief as if she had lost the most important person in the world.


    She mumbled something sad, but it was unclear. Her voice was very soft. It was hard to make out a word.


    He could vaguely hear the words "don''t leave" and "can''t be without you."


    A bit of the coldness in Charles'' eyes faded. He suppressed his anger, raised his hand, and gently patted Evelyn''s face.


    He was being gentle with her. It had been too long since Charles had spoken to Evelyn properly. His tone came out somewhat harsh. "Evelyn, wake up. Stop crying."


    Evelyn couldn''t hear him; she was still immersed in her sorrow. Tears fell like pearls off a string, rolling out of her eyes inrge drops.


    Charles watched, his eyes slightly disdainful. Still, he leaned over from the bedside to pull over a tissue and helped her wipe away the tears and mucus on her face. "Alright, stop crying. I''m here."


    His tone was still stiff, but it was clear he was trying to soothe Evelyn. She cried even harder, tears streaming non-stop.


    Charles'' frown deepened, and suddenly, he pinched her chin and lowered his head to kiss her.


    His intention was to stop her from crying because it was bothering him, but once the kiss began, it gradually changed in nature.


    Charles hadn''t touched Evelyn in a while. He couldn''t help but deepen the kiss. The kiss gradually got out of control and became more and more intense.

 Chapter 9

    The air began to grow hot and arid. A wave of heat pooled in his lower abdomen. Charles flipped over, pinning Evelyn beneath him.


    Evelyn gasped for air as she awoke from her nightmare. She slowly opened her eyes to the bedroom ceiling, feeling momentarily disoriented.


    The dream had been so sorrowful that it was hard to distinguish from reality. That is until she felt a chill against her chest, bringing her fully to consciousness. Only then did she realize her clothes were disheveled, and Charles was undressing her.


    Evelyn''s expression turned icy, and her blood ran cold. Without a second thought, she pushed against him. "Charles, let me go."


    But Charles was caught up in the moment. He not only didn''t stop but became even more aggressive.


    Even if Charles didn''t love Evelyn, he couldn''t deny his attraction to her body. He couldn''t resist her touch.


    Evelyn''s expression grew increasingly grim.


    For the past five years, whenever Charles wanted to, he would pin her down and have his way with her. He never once considered her feelings.


    Previously, she endured it all for the sake of her love for him and to provide Charlie with a stable family.


    But now, Charlie was gone and she had broken up with him. What right did Charles have to touch her against her will?


    "Charles, I told you to let go of me. Do you hear me?"


    Evelyn''s struggle intensified. As Charles moved to kiss her again, she bit down hard on his lip.


    The force she used drew blood from his lip. The metallic taste momentarily stunned Charles, allowing Evelyn to push him away with all her might. She managed to escape his grasp after a struggle.


    Weak from not eating and the exertion, she gasped for breath, and her vision was darkening. But she remained vignt, wrapping herself in a thin nket. Her gaze was wary of Charles. It was as if she was ready to fight him off if he dared to touch her again. This show of defiance killed Charles'' interest. He preferred her eager and pleasing in bed.


    Charles got out of bed and dressed. As he did so, his phone slipped from his pocket onto the bed. The screen lit up with several missed calls, all from Sandy.


    Only then did Charles remember he had promised to spend the morning with Sandy. He quickly dressed in a suit, looking every bit the distinguished gentleman. Without another nce at Evelyn, he left.


    Only when the door shut did Evelyn''s body slump, falling onto the bed. She straightened her clothes and staggered to her feet, pushing open the bedroom door. She held her daughter''s urn close, and tears welled in her eyes.


    ...


    Charles drove to the Greenrose residence where Dahlia and Sandy lived.


    When Sandy heard the engine, she immediately ran out to greet him. However, she turned her head away and huffed through her nose upon seeing Charles. "Is my little princess angry?" Charles approached and lifted her into his arms.


    Sandy wrapped her arms around Charles'' neck, tilting her chin up proudly. "Daddy, if you give me a kiss, I''ll forgive you."


    The chill around Charles dissipated, his lips curving into a smile as heplied with a peck on Sandy''s face.


    Sandy immediately beamed, nuzzling into Charles'' neck with affection.


    Charles looked down at Sandy in his arms, his eyes filled with adoration. This was how he pictured his daughter should be, genuine and adorable. Sandy''s little temperamental but easy to appease. Dahlia had raised her well. She''s not like Charlie, who Evelyn had spoiled from a young age.


    He missed one appointment, and Charlie had thrown a tantrum and hid away, just as her mother had taught her to do.


    "Dinner''s ready,e on in."


    Dahlia, removing her apron, walked to the doorway with a gentle voice. She saw Charles approach andughed lightly. "She heard me calling you this morning and has been waiting ever since. When you didn''t show, she wouldn''t stop calling you. I couldn''t even stop her. Charles, I hope we didn''t disturb you?"

 Chapter 10

    "No, I got held up with something."


    Charles responded in a subdued voice, carrying Sandy into the house.


    Under the bright lights, Dahlia, whose attention had been fixed on Charles, noticed his lower lip was cut. It looked like someone had bitten it. Dahlia''s smile froze for a moment.


    Was Evelyn the "something" that held Charles up? Was she using her charms to keep him by her side?


    ...


    Eight-thirty was Sandy''s bedtime every night. After bathing her, Dahlia carried her to bed.


    Charles picked up a bedtime storybook and sat by the bed, ready to lull her to sleep.


    Sandy snuggled into his embrace, hugged his neck, and cooed softly, "Daddy, please don''t go tonight. Stay and sleep with me and Mommy, okay?"


    Dahlia had just finished tidying up the bathroom and stepped out. She frowned upon hearing this and scolded her daughter, "Sandy, don''t make a fuss."


    Sandy felt extremely hurt for being scolded by her mom. Tears quickly filled her eyes, and she watched Dahlia with a whimpering cry. "I''m not making a fuss. I just want to sleep with you and Daddy." As she spoke, tears fell down her face. She was heartbroken.


    She cried and sobbed, "Other kids can sleep with their Mommy and Daddy, so why can''t I?"


    Seeing her daughter cry like this, Dahlia felt a pang of heartache. Wearing the clothes that got wet from bathing Sandy, Dahlia quickly walked to the bed and bent down to soothe her daughter.


    She bent down at an angle that Charles could clearly see everything from his position. She was curvaceous and perfectly shaped. Her figure could drive a man to distraction.


    Dahlia, oblivious to this, seemed to have all her attention drawn to her crying daughter.


    Dahlia softly tried tofort her distraught daughter,, "Be a good girl, Sandy. Stop crying, okay? The doctor just told you yesterday not to get too worked up. Have you forgotten?"


    But Sandy wouldn''t listen. She shook her little head like a rattle drum and persisted in asking Charles to stay. Her small hands clutched Charles'' sleeve. She shook it and pleaded pitifully, "Daddy, please?" For the first time, Charles, who usually gave in to Sandy''s requests, did not respond.


    Seeing this, Dahlia''s gaze dimmed. She suddenly forcefully pulled Sandy into her embrace and forced a smile at Charles. "Charles, don''t mind her. She''ll stop crying soon. It''s gettingte. You should head back and rest." Without Charles'' embrace, Sandy cried even harder.


    Sandy looked at Charles. Her tears made her look even more pitiful as if she had been abandoned. She cried softly, "Daddy, just for one night, please? I am begging you!"


    She cried intermittently, looking extremely pitiful.


    Her condition had just stabilized, and she needed to rest well. Getting too worked up was not good for her.


    In the end, Charles nodded, agreeing to stay.


    ...


    Evelyn received a call from Dahlia early in the morning, asking to meet at a caf¨¦.


    She didn''t refuse and arrived as agreed.


    As soon as she entered the caf¨¦, Dahlia greeted her with a beaming smile and a calm attitude. "Evelyn, this way."


    It was as if she wasn''t the person Evelyn had pped a few days ago in the hospital. Dahlia was that good at pretending.


    Evelyn walked over calmly.


    As soon as she sat down, Dahlia''s words, coated with a veneer of kindness, rang in her ears. "Evelyn, I ordered you a cappino. I thought you might need something sweet, considering how bitter your days have been..." "Get to the point." Evelyn cut Dahlia off with a cold tone. She wasn''t here to listen to nonsense.


    Dahlia wasn''t annoyed; she just smiled lightly and took out a shopping bag from her side.


    She opened it and ced it in front of Evelyn, her lips curving. "These are Charles'' clothes fromst night that he left at my ce. I brought them to you."

 Chapter 11

    This statement was dripping with innuendo. Even more suggestive were the clothes in the shopping bag. It''s aplete set of men''s clothing, with the men''s underwear deliberately ced on top. Dahlia was tantly unting it to Evelyn. Last night, Charles had stayed over at her ce.


    Evelyn''s gaze lingered on the underwear for a few seconds before shifting to Dahlia. Then, she saw Dahlia nonchntly brush aside her shawl of long hair, revealing varying shades of marks on her neck. To anyone experienced, these were clearly love bites. Last night, Charles had slept with Dahlia. He couldn''t find pleasure with Evelyn and immediately went to Dahlia.


    Evelyn felt a slight sting in her heart. Dahlia was aiming to wound her soul.


    She thought of her daughter, who had gone too soon, and her eyes grew colder. She slowly stood up, looking down at Dahlia with a hint of sarcasm in her voice. "They''re Charles'' clothes, so you might as well give them directly to him. This isn''t a recycling center." Dahlia was quite shocked at this response. Before she could react, a low pressure emanated from behind her.


    Dahlia turned her head. Charles had appeared behind her at some point, his presence exuding a chilling coldness.


    "Charles, how did you get here?"


    Dahlia immediately rose and walked swiftly to Charles, naturally standing by his side.


    Charles didn''t answer her. He was looking at Evelyn. His gaze was icy, piercingly cold. His anger was evident, and it was directed at Evelyn.


    Dahlia couldn''t help but smiled slightly. She nced at Evelyn, a sh of triumph in her eyes, and affectionately tugged at Charles'' sleeve in front of her. She said softly, "Charles, don''t be angry. Evelyn didn''t do anything to me this time." Evelyn was all too familiar with this scene. Charles always sided with Dahlia unconditionally without seeking the reason.


    Dahlia was the apple of Charles'' eye. She was exceedingly important to him.


    He had searched for her for many years. It wasn''t until eight years ago, when Dahlia appeared with a token, that she naturally became Charles'' girlfriend.


    From then on, Charles only had eyes for Dahlia, and Evelyn was cast as the cunning and malicious antagonist in their love story. Charles believe that, in her efforts to ruin them, Evelyn would resort to any means to nder and hurt Dahlia. Before, she would get upset over Charles'' absolute favoritism towards Dahlia, misunderstanding her time and again.


    But now... None of it mattered. Evelyn was done with Charles, so she had called him over. She wanted to make things clear with these two once and for all.


    They had to stop haunting her and disrupting her normal life.


    "Dahlia, Charles and I have officially broken up. Just keep whatever he leaves at your ce. After all, the best destination for trash is the recycling center."


    Then, Evelyn didn''t linger any longer and walked away. She didn''t spare Charles a nce the entire time.


    The moment they brushed past each other, Charles grabbed her wrist.


    Evelyn''s expression darkened. She immediately struggled. But the more she struggled, the tighter Charles gripped, as if he intended to crush her wrist bones without a shred of pity.


    Pain washed over her, and a hint of anger colored Evelyn''s eyes as she coldly demanded, "Charles, let go! Are you deaf? Didn''t you hear Dahlia say I didn''t do anything to her?" Charles turned a deaf ear. He did as he pleased.

 Chapter 12

    With a frosty expression, he firmly grasped her hand and strode towards the exit.


    Evelyn couldn''t break free, so she stopped struggling andplied, walking out with Charles. Deep down, she was counting silently. "One."


    "Two."


    Before she could count to "three," a weak cry from behind, "Charles..."


    As the voice trailed off, a loud "thump" followed. The delicate and frail Dahlia had fainted.


    Charles'' steps halted immediately. Without a moment''s hesitation, he released Evelyn''s hand, quickly turned around, and rushed towards Dahlia, who was lying on the ground. "Dahlia!" Evelyn didn''t need to look back to know how worried Charles must have looked at that moment. He lookedpletely different from his indifferent mockery when Evelyn fainted yesterday. This was the difference between love and indifference.


    Evelyn stood still, her gaze falling on the clear red mark on her wrist. Her lips curled into an almost imperceptible sneer of self-mockery.


    This wasn''t the first time Charles had chosen Dahlia over her, but it would be thest.


    ...


    After leaving the caf¨¦, Evelyn drove to a shopping center to buy paper and pencils. She was preparing to enter this year''s jewelry designpetition. Throughout the week, she had visited over thirty cemeteries in the Capital to select a burial plot for Charlie.


    The ones with scenery started at a million. She didn''t have that kind of money.


    Over the past five years, Charles had given Evelyn a monthly allowance of ten thousand for living expenses. She wasn''t extravagant. Initially, it was enough, and she could even save a bit each month. But then, Charlie fell ill, and Charles didn''t believe she was truly sick. Charlie''s medical bills quickly drained her savings, so she had no choice but to ask Charles for money. Every time she brought up Charlie''s illness, Charles would hang up the phone or simply leave, without giving her a chance to speak.


    To get the money, Evelyn had to resort to lies. Because of this, Charlie suffered a lot with her.


    This time, she didn''t want to ask Charles for money to buy Charlie''s burial plot. She didn''t want to tarnish Charlie''s path to reincarnation. She was determined to earn the money herself.


    While figuring out how to quickly make a million, she ran into Samuel. He was her college professor and also one of the judges of the jewelry designpetition.


    Five years ago, Samuel had admired her, saying she had talent. In her freshman year, he insisted on rmending her for that year''s jewelrypetition. He believed she was bound to win first ce if she entered.


    Samuel was very pleased with the pieces she had designed in her free time over the years and urged her to enter this year''spetition.


    She was tempted. She did love designing jewelry, and winning thepetition meant snagging a cool million.


    Evelyn quickly made her purchases and took the elevator to the second basement level, walking towards where she had parked her car.


    As she passed by a Rolls-Royce, the rear car door suddenly opened, and a well-defined hand reached out, grabbing her wrist.


    "Ah-" Evelyn''s pupils dted in panic, and she''s about to scream for help.


    But she didn''t get the chance. With a forceful pull, she was dragged into the car. The door mmed shut with a "bang."


    In the dizzying moment, Evelyn was pinned against the back seat.


    "No!"


    In utter panic, she swung her paper bag at the man''s face. The man deflected with his hand. His well-defined hand gripped her chin, and a dominating kiss followed.

 Chapter 13

    Evelyn had loved Charles for a decade. She was too familiar with his scent.


    The moment he kissed her, she recognized him immediately. Her initial panic and fear faded away, leaving only an endless chill. Evelyn turned her face away with a frosty expression, resisting Charles'' imposing kiss.


    Her resistance only intensified the darkness in Charles'' eyes. He forcefully turned her face back towards him and leaned down for another kiss.


    Charles had a threatening aura about him, and it was mixed with inexplicable anger.


    Was he doing this because she had caused Dahlia to feel slighted in the coffee shop? Was he here to avenge his beloved?


    Evelyn''s resistance grew stronger. The grip on her was tight, and Evelyn couldn''t escape. She could only clench her teeth, keep his burning breath out, and refuse to let him invade her mouth. At the same time, her body struggled more fiercely. She raised her hands to push and hit him.


    However, the inherent strength disparity between them meant she couldn''t shake Charles in the slightest, even with all her might. Her hands had just been raised when Charles pinned them above her head with one hand.


    This position brought their bodies even closer. So close that she could distinctly feel Charles'' burning desire.


    Evelyn''s body tensed up instantly. She instinctively arched her back to avoid him, but she''s lying on the leather chair, and there was nowhere to retreat.


    Her eyes reddened with anger, and through clenched teeth, she managed to say, "Charles, let go of me... You have no right to touch me!"


    A cold smirk appeared in Charles'' eyes.


    No right?


    She was his woman. He had every right to touch her.


    The hand Charles had on Evelyn''s jaw suddenly tightened.


    Evelyn winced in pain, her lips parted slightly, and Charles took the opportunity to deepen the kiss. He kissed her fiercely as if venting his anger.


    Evelyn tried to bite him again, but the moment she moved, Charles skillfully avoided it. He deepened the kiss even more, and it became more intense.


    Evelyn was forced to endure it. Then Charles finally released her swollen lips, moving downwards.


    Evelyn''s breathing was unstable. As Charles kissed the side of her ear, she suddenly spoke, "Charles, your beloved Dahlia already knows we''ve broken up. Aren''t you afraid of hurting her by kissing me?" Charles paused his kisses but did not let go. Instead, he bit her earlobe gently. His voice was cold as ice. "Evelyn, did you ever think of Dahlia''s feelings when you drugged me and slept with me five years ago?" Hearing him bring up that night five years ago made Evelyn''s breath hitch. She instinctively tried to argue. "I didn''t drug you!"


    Charles sneered, "Do you think I''d believe that?"


    He didn''t believe her. He hadn''t believed her five years ago. He didn''t believe her ims of innocence or of not knowing how she had ended up in his room.


    Because that night, he was drugged and not in his right mind, but she was sober.


    She loved him too much. He was under the influence of the drug and couldn''t wait to kiss her and press her into the bed.


    She thought about pushing him away and running, but, as she looked at his pained, handsome face, she ultimately couldn''t bear to push him away and became his antidote.


    Her willing heart left her without a defense.


    "What do you really want?" Evelyn threw out the words with icy detachment.


    At this point, she didn''t want to argue about what happened five years ago anymore.

 Chapter 14

    Once, she truly loved Charles too much, cared about his misunderstandings, and always wanted to prove herself.


    Now, it didn''t matter anymore.


    Charles'' gaze was dark and mysterious. His voice was husky as he said, "You!"


    As his words fell, he leaned down again under Evelyn''s incredulous gaze, kissing her lips wantonly. He didn''t give her a chance to resist, and inched closer, entangling wildly.


    No matter how she tried to dodge, she couldn''t escape him.


    In the confined space, the heat climbed higher and higher. With Charles'' increasingly unrestrained actions, Evelyn gave up struggling. She closed her eyes, and turned her face away, giving him no reaction.


    Over five years, they had had sex countless times. Evelyn knew Charles hated her passive responses, which would always disappoint him.


    Just like that night in Maple Garden, he felt let down.


    He liked her passionate responses. The more passionate she was, the more interested he became.


    Every time he came back, she would do everything she could to keep and please him, hoping that after he was satisfied, he would be in a good enough mood to stay at home a bit longer to spend more time with Charlie. However, Evelyn could control her heart, not her body. Just as she understood Charles, Charles also knew her body well.


    She had tried her utmost to resist, but...


    "Trying a new tactic? Are you ying hard to get?"


    His dark voice suddenly rang in her ear. It sounded mocking and also sarcastic.


    Evelyn suddenly opened her eyes. Charles'' slender fingers were before her eyes. Even in the dim light, she could still see the lingering moisture on them.


    That was hers...


    Charles'' words echoed in her ears, buzzing like a p, fiercely striking Evelyn''s face.


    It left a burning pain.


    Her body was hot, but her heart was cold. Her gaze slowly moved away from Charles'' fingers, meeting his unfathomable eyes. Her lips curled into a cold smile. "It''s just a normal physiological response of a woman, Charles. It''s not just for you. Any man could have caused it."


    "Charles, you should know this better than anyone, shouldn''t you? You don''t love me. You even despise me to the extreme, but that didn''t stop you from being aroused by me again and again over these five years."


    With her sharp words, Evelyn tried to mask her inner turmoil. She thought this would enrage Charles, and he would let her go. A man always so superior definitely could not stand her saying this.


    But unexpectedly, Charles not only didn''t let her go but also directly grabbed her legs and pressed them around his waist.


    His actions were strong and domineering. He was determined to have her.


    ...


    Just when things were about to escte, a familiar ringtone suddenly sounded. It was Dahlia''s call.


    Before, Evelyn feared hearing this ringtone because, as soon as it rang, Charles would leave her and Charlie without hesitation.


    But at this moment, Evelyn breathed a sigh of relief. It''s difficult for a man to stop in the heat of the moment, but Charles could, for Dahlia.


    He withdrew the hand that was restraining Evelyn, took his phone out of his pocket, and pressed the answer button. His body still pinned hers down.


    "Charles..."


    Dahlia''s voice, on the verge of tears, rang in the car at the same time Charles'' hand on Evelyn''s thigh moved. His fingertips ambiguously caressed her, moving upwards.

 Chapter 15

    Evelyn was on the verge of tears. Her dignity was shattered. Anger surged through her as she fought back desperately.


    In the moment his attention was diverted by Dahlia and his guard was down, she kneed him hard below the belt.


    "Ugh!" Charles grunted in pain.


    Seizing the moment of his agony, Evelyn flipped over, escaping from beneath him. She opened the car door and got out.


    Pulling her coat tighter around her disheveled self, she hurried back to her own car in a disarray of steps and got in. Only when she locked the door did her tense nerves finally rx. Inside the car, Charles leaned back in his seat, taking out a cigarette from the pack and lighting it.


    His gaze had followed Evelyn, as he savored how she had justin beneath him.


    Her hair was in disarray, and her skin was glowing under the light. The marks he had left were like roses blooming in the snow.


    Charlie''s Adam''s apple bobbed as the arousal in his eyes deepened. He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled. The smoke swirled around, obscuring his expression.


    Dahlia''s concerned voice rang out again. "Charles, are you there?"


    He responded nonchntly, "Hmm, what''s wrong?"


    The lustful, husky tone of his voice traveled through the line into Dahlia''s ears.


    The strange sound left her stunned.


    Dahlia was no stranger to such matters. That sound was a clear indication of what he had been doing.


    An hour ago, Charles had his assistant take her home while he drove off himself, a cold aura enveloping him. She couldn''t figure out if he was angry because Evelyn had messed with her or because she had approached Evelyn. She hadn''t dared to keep him by her side. She hadn''t expected him to go find Evelyn.


    And he had made out with her...


    Dahlia''s grip on her phone tightened noticeably.


    Still, she didn''t show any sign of it as she spoke to Charles. She softened her voice slightly, feigning innocence. "I woke up and didn''t see you. I thought you were mad at me."


    She noticed Charles didn''t respond and knew he was displeased with her actions today.


    Dahlia was quick to show weakness and immediately apologized, "Charles, I know I shouldn''t have gone to meet Evelyn today. But it wasn''t on purpose. I just felt sorry for Sandy."


    "Last night, after she fell asleep, you left. She woke up in the middle of the night and didn''t see you and cried all night. She kept asking me why she has a dad but still feels like we''re abroad and couldn''t live with her dad.


    "Charles, Sandy has been with me abroad for the past five years, enduring so much hardship and suffering. I was just too heartbroken for her this morning. That''s why I acted impulsively..."


    "I won''t do it again. I''ll take good care of both of you." Charles'' voice softened.


    "Charles, I''m sorry, I won''t do it again. I know you''re considering grandma''s health. I''ll be patient. I''ll also strive to win first ce in this year''s Jewelry Design Contest to gain Patrick''s approval."


    "Hmm." Charles responded softly.


    Not receiving the promise she had hoped for, Dahlia clenched her fists.


    ...


    The first thing Evelyn did when she got home was visit the spare room. Charlie''s ashes were kept in this room.


    She walked over, gently touching the urn with her hand. Her gaze, filled with love, fell on the photo beside the urn.


    Her daughter was so beautiful, well-behaved, and adorable. She''s forever captured in that one year.


    Evelyn''s eyes reddened, her voice hoarse with promise. "Darling, Mommy will do her best."


    She had to earn the prize money to buy a burial plot for her daughter. That way, Charlie would surely be born into a happy family and never again be reincarnated into the belly of someone with miserable fate like Evelyn, enduring endless hardship.

 Chapter 16

    Evelyn signed upte, so there was only one spot left in thepetition. She worked on her design draft overnight, submitting it just before the deadline.


    A dayter, the organizers called her and asked her to arrive at Skyline Tower by 2 p.m. topete on-site for thest spot with the eight contestants who had already passed. Evelyn was worried about traffic in the afternoon and decided to take the subway.


    When she got out of the subway station, she immediately spotted a Rolls-Royce Ghost parked at the entrance of the building.


    That was Charles'' car.


    The car door opened, and Charles stepped out first. He walked to the back seat, bent down, and gently lifted Sandy from her child seat.


    The little girl wrapped her arms around Charles'' neck, smiling sweetly at him. "Thank you, Daddy. I love you the most."


    Standing beside the father and daughter, Dahlia posed gracefully, feigning jealousy. "You love daddy the most. What about me?"


    "Of course, I love you, too. Mommy, give me a kiss." Sandy''s smile were sweet as honey. She pouted yfully, waiting for Dahlia toe closer.


    The smile on Dahlia''s face deepened, and her gaze towards her daughter became even more tender. She didn''t miss this chance and moved closer.


    Charles was holding Sandy, so this brought Dahlia very close to him. So close, she could feel his breath on her face.


    Dahlia''s cheeks instantly flushed, and she shyly nced at Charles. Her heart was pounding.


    Their eyes met, full of unspoken words.


    The atmosphere between them was charged. This scene attracted many onlookers.


    Charles was the head of the Jenkins family, a top-tier power in the Capital, but he rarely appeared in public and had never been fully exposed, so no one recognized him. His handsome features, superior physique, and luxury car already made him the dream of many.


    Everyone envied them.


    Dahlia reveled in the gazes, casting a meaningful look in Evelyn''s direction. She saw Evelyn watching them.


    Dahlia''s smile deepened. She had noticed Evelyn from the moment she appeared.


    The next moment, her smile froze. As the distance between them closed, she saw the design drafts in Evelyn''s hands.


    If Evelyn wasing here with design drafts at this time, she was clearly here topete for thest spot in the jewelry designpetition.


    Why? There was no mention of Evelyn yesterday.


    Dahlia had checked. In thest round, there were only seven peoplepeting against her. None of them were a match for her skills.


    She was confident of winning.


    But now Evelyn was here...


    Five years ago, they were both admitted to the University of Capital, finishing first and second in their major.


    Evelyn was first, and Dahlia was second.


    They were technically only one rank apart, but Dahlia knew deep down how big the gap between her second ce and Evelyn''s first truly was. With Evelyn here, she had no chance. Dahlia clenched her fists subconsciously.


    "Why did Evelyne here alone?"


    Hearing this, Charles followed Dahlia''s gaze. He also saw what Evelyn was holding, and his brows furrowed. "Evelyn, what are you doing here? Where''s Charlie?" Evelyn ignored him, continuing on her way inside.


    Charles didn''t see Charlie, and his frown deepened. "Why are you such a careless mother? Charlie is only five years old. How could you leave her alone at home?"

 Chapter 17

    Evelyn suddenly halted in her tracks. She whirled around, her eyes cold as she stared at Charles holding Sandy. A frosty smile curled at the corners of her mouth. "Charles, since Charlie was born, you haven''t spent a single day with her. How do you have the nerve to


    stand here and criticize me?" Charles was left speechlessly choked up.


    "Evelyn, how can you speak to Charles like that? He''s not like you and does not just idle at home. He''s always busy with work, so it''s inevitable that he might neglect Charlie sometimes. You should be understanding instead of ming him. "And Charles adores children. Why would he neglect Charlie? Maybe you should reflect on yourself."


    Dahlia spoke with empathy, not just to please Charles. She was also insinuating that it was Evelyn''s bad influence on Charlie that made Charles despise her.


    Evelyn''s gaze turned sharp as knives towards Dahlia, her tone unfriendly as she warned, "Dahlia, it''s not your ce to speak here."


    Dahlia''s eyes instantly filled with tears as she moved closer to Charles. "Evelyn, I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to intrude. I just feel sorry for Charles. I can''t stand to see you misunderstanding and wronging him like this!"


    "Dahlia, what brand of trash bag are you? How are you so full of garbage?" Evelyn felt utterly disgusted.


    "Evelyn!"


    Charles'' handsome and noble face grew cold at thisment. His gaze towards Evelyn was sharp and frosty.


    "Charles, it''s okay. Don''t be upset with Evelyn on my ount."


    Dahlia tugged at Charles'' sleeve, ying the martyr.


    Today was very important to Evelyn. She couldn''t be bothered to continue this squabble with them and turned around to walk away. She didn''t want to waste her words on them.


    There were fifteen minutes left until thepetition. Evelyn had only slept for a few hours, so she decided to make herself a cup of coffee for a quick energy boost.


    As she entered, Dahlia, seeing no one around, followed her in and greeted her as if nothing was wrong, "Evelyn."


    Evelyn couldn''t be bothered to respond. She walked straight to the cupboard to get a mug.


    Dahlia nced at Evelyn''s hand, which was slender and graceful. With those hands, she could effortlessly create stunning works of art.


    A hint of something appeared in Dahlia''s eyes. She stepped forward, grabbing a mug for herself.


    Evelyn continued to ignore Dahlia and went to the coffee machine to make herself an Americano. After brewing the coffee, she reached out to take it, and Dahlia suddenly pressed the hot water button. The scalding water poured straight down.


    This burn meant Evelyn''s right hand would be out ofmission for the day, and worse, if the burn was severe, she might never be able to hold a pen again.


    Dahlia couldn''t help but smirk, but the next second, her smile froze. She had not anticipated Evelyn''s quick reaction.


    Before the hot water could scald her, she swiftly withdrew her hand. So fast that only a few drops of hot water sshed onto the back of her hand.


    Dahlia almost instinctively reached out to grab Evelyn''s arm to stop her from moving away, but she caught air instead.


    Evelyn sidestepped, bumping into Dahlia''s shoulder in the process. Caught off guard, Dahlia struggled to maintain her bnce, instinctively reaching out to grab something to steady herself.


    In the chaos, her handnded under the hot water, knocking over the coffee cup. The scalding water poured directly onto her right hand, causing bone-deep, excruciating pain.

 Chapter 18

    "Ah!"


    Dahlia let out a shrill scream from her throat, freezing for several seconds before tremblingly turning off the kettle. "Mommy!"


    Sandy, who hade over unnoticed, saw Dahlia''s hand scalded by the boiling water. After crying out for her mom, she suddenly turned and ran towards Charles, who was not far away. Like finding her rock, she cried, "Daddy... daddy..." Charles was on the phone, but he immediately hung up, crouched down, and lifted the tear-streaked Sandy into his arms. "Sandy, what happened?"


    "Daddy, Ms. Evelyn burned Mommy''s hand."


    Charles'' expression changed instantly. Holding Sandy, he quickly walked towards the break room.


    The onlookers, attracted by themotion, were stopped in their tracks by a look from Charles. No one dared toe closer.


    Charles carried Sandy in, closing the door behind them with a backhand.


    "Charles..." Dahlia''s eyes were red, her voice trembling with pain she was desperately trying to hide. That call carried so much hurt.


    Charles'' gaze turned icy as he nced at Evelyn. He quickly walked over to Dahlia, took her arm, and ced her scalded hand under cold running water.


    Dahlia couldn''t help but cry out in pain, her lips quivering. She looked so pitiful.


    "Just hold on." Charles'' face was filled with distress as he softlyforted her.


    The more heforted her, the redder Dahlia''s eyes became. Tears swirled in her eyes.


    Evelyn couldn''t watch this melodrama, and turned to leave.


    Dahlia''s injury didn''t affect her at all. She was no saint; if she hadn''t acted quickly, it would have been her instead of Dahlia who got scalded.


    "Evelyn, stop!" Charles'' cold rebuke stopped her in her tracks.


    To think Dahlia was injured and she showed no remorse.


    Evelyn kept walking, ignoring him.


    Charles let go of Dahlia and quickly walked up to Evelyn, grabbing her wrist harshly and pulling her back. With a fierce tone, he said, "Evelyn, how could you be so cruel! Why did you hurt Dahlia''s hand? Don''t you know how important her hands are to her?" Evelyn watched Charles, who was hastily judging her guilty.


    In the past, she would be deeply hurt if Charles wronged her. She feared Charles misunderstanding her even more. Thus, she would incessantly try to defend herself.


    Now she knew, a man whose heart was biased from the beginning would never change, even if the truth was right before his eyes.


    The Evelyn who always tried to prove herself in front of him, was truly foolish.


    Evelyn raised her eyes to the imposing Charles and scoffed, "You say I hurt Dahlia? Where''s the proof?"


    The user bears the burden of proof.


    There were no cameras installed in this break room. It was precisely because there were no cameras that Dahlia dared to so recklessly attempt to scald her hand.


    Seeing Evelyn denying it, Sandy clung to Charles'' legs, crying out, "Daddy, I saw Ms. Evelyn use boiling water to burn Mommy. Mommy taught me that when a kid makes a mistake, they should admit to their wrongdoing. Why won''t Ms. Evelyn admit it?" "Don''t cry. Daddy believes you." Charlesforted Sandy.


    Then, he looked up with a frosty face, and said in an extremely cold tone, "Sandy''s word is evidence! She''s only five years old. Why would she lie?"

 Chapter 19

    Charlie never heard Charlie''s side, and he repeatedly med Charlie by using her of lying. He scolded Charlie for being dishonest, med her for being prone to lying at such a young age, and called her a bad child. Talk about a double standard!


    The only time Charlie lied was while waiting for her dad, who stood her up, and it cost her life.


    But in Charles'' eyes, Charlie was such a bad child.


    Evelyn''s eyes reddened with anger as she red at Charles and coldly questioned, "Charles, isn''t Charlie a kid too? Why did you always criticize her for lying?"


    "How can Charlie evenpare to Sandy!" The words that Charles blurted out chilled Evelyn to the bone.


    This was his true feeling. In his heart, the daughter borne by his beloved was perfect in every way. Sandy was as wless as Dahlia, while Charlie, like her mother, was deemed unworthy in every aspect.


    Evelyn felt a deep pain. It felt like her heart was being torn apart, and yet sheughed, augh that didn''t reach her eyes.


    She just stared at Charles and said emphatically, "Sandy doesn''t evene close to my girl!"


    How could such a child, who lies so easily and knows how to frame others at such a young age,pare to her sweet and adorable Charlie?


    Evelyn truly felt sorry for Charlie.


    Her daughter loved her dad so much, but her dad only loved Sandy, Dahlia''s child. He did not have a spot for her.


    As a mother, Evelyn''s heart ached until her eyes welled up with tears. She felt so sorry for her daughter. "You are the reason she..."


    Just as Evelyn mentioned that Charlie had passed away, Dahlia suddenly grasped Charles'' arm tightly. She stared at her swollen and reddened right hand, crying out in fear, "Charles, is my hand ruined? Will I never be able to draw again?" Charles'' attention was immediately drawn to Dahlia, and he did not hear what Evelyn said next.


    He looked at Dahlia''s hand and soothed her gently, "I won''t let anything happen to you. I''m taking you to the hospital now. Don''t worry."


    Charles carried Dahlia in his arms and walked out.


    Sandy, ever so sweet and clever, clung to Charles'' hem, following him out.


    As they passed by Evelyn, Charles said in an extremely cold tone, "You better pray Dahlia''s hand is fine."


    Charles left with Dahlia.


    Evelyn was unfazed. She and the remaining six contestants immediately went ahead with the designpetition. She performed great, and secured thest spot in the jewelry design contest.


    ...


    Evelyn left the Skyline Tower, and was heading to the subway entrance when a motorcycle sped towards her.


    Evelyn saw iting, didn''t dodge, and just stood there, watching the rider perform a beautiful drift and stop the bike right in front of her.


    The tall and lean man on the motorcycle propped the bike with his long legs and removed his helmet with one hand, revealing his overly attractive face.


    His beautiful eyes were focused at Evelyn. His eyebrow was yfully raised. "Hey, beautiful, hop on. Let me take you for a ride."


    It was Adam, her only friend from the orphanage.


    At eight years old, the orphanage director sold Evelyn to a pedophile. When she was taken advantage of, Adam rushed in recklessly, knocked the pedophile unconscious, and escaped the orphanage with her. He hid her to protect her and drew away the people chasing them by himself.


    When Evelyn came to the orphanage with Rosa, she saw Adam again. He was beaten bloody and barely breathing. Even then, he didn''t disclose her hiding ce.


    "Adam, do you think you''re looking particrly handsome right now?" Evelyn was not impressed.


    "Evelyn, watch your words. What do you mean, I think? I am devastatingly handsome!" Adam flicked his bangs.


    Evelyn didn''t respond but gestured him closer with her finger. Adam bent down.


    She lifted her hand to the back of Adam''s head, turning it clockwise towards the bike''s mirror, and said seriously, "Indeed, devastatingly so!"


    "Damn!" Adam saw his reflection. His hair was aplete mess, and he couldn''t help but curse.


    His handsomeness didn''tst three seconds.


    He hurriedly put his helmet back on. This was ruining his image.


    Evelyn couldn''t help but smile.


    "Hop on." Adam spoke gruffly, leaning over to hand Evelyn a helmet.


    Suddenly, his movement paused. He noticed a smaller pink helmet for children under Evelyn''s adult-sized pink helmet.


    Adam''s nose tingled, and his eyes reddened. It was the birthday present he prepared for Charlie.


    He missed Charlie''s birthday because of training. He couldn''t take leave, so he had ordered this helmet in advance, and nned to take Charlie for a ride once she was healthy after her surgery. But he never got the chance.


    "Charlie would have been so happy to see this gift." Evelyn patted Adam''s shoulder andforted him.


    Charlie''s death devastated her, but she couldn''t drown in sorrow forever. Charlie wouldn''t want to see her mom like this.


    Evelyn remembered how, on Charlie''s second birthday, she made a wish like a little adult. She hoped her mom would be happy.


    Adam quickly adjusted his emotions, stood up, and handed the helmet to Evelyn.


    As Evelyn was about to put it on, Adam suddenly cursed, "Those bastards."


    Evelyn paused. Instinctively, she looked up, following Adam''s gaze.


    She saw Charles'' car parked opposite the Skyline Tower at the hospital entrance. Inside, Charles was leaning over to kiss Dahlia.

 Chapter 20

    Adam saw it, too. The rage sparked instantly.


    "That bastard! How dare he cozy up with Dahlia, when it''s barely been a week since Charlie''s funeral. I''m going to smash his face right now."


    "Adam, I''ve already broken up with him." Evelyn caught hold of Adam, preventing him from going over. Adam wouldn''t win in a confrontation with Charles.


    "Weren''t you supposed to take me for a drive? Let''s just go!"


    With Evelyn holding him back, Adam had no choice but to calm down. He knew all too well how much she loved Charles through her humility and herpromises over the past five years. He had seen it all.


    "You..." Adam wanted to scold Evelyn for herck of dignity.


    As Charles straightened up and looked their way, Adam pushed the visor up with a snap of his wrist. He red fiercely at Charles.


    After Evelyn put on her helmet, Adam deliberately pulled her hand around his waist and said, "Hold on tight."


    Evelyn didn''t refuse. She hugged Adam''s waist tighter, understanding his gesture to help her regain some dignity in front of Charles.


    But what Adam didn''t know was that Charles'' indifference towards her made their actions meaningless to him.


    Adam was satisfied. Evelyn used to maintain an excessive level of propriety for Charles'' sake.


    Adam revved the engine, deliberately brushed past Charles'' car and even spat disdainfully at the couple inside. Then, he elerated away, leaving a trail of exhaust behind.


    When they left, Evelyn didn''t notice Charles'' intense gaze in the car. His cold eyes harbored a strong possessiveness towards her.


    Dahlia saw it and couldn''t help clenching her fists. The pain brought her back to reality, preventing her from making a scene.


    She suddenly winced. "Ouch!"


    She saw Evelyn and pretended to forget about her injured hand while trying to buckle her seatbelt.


    Charles immediately leaned over to help her. "Are you trying to get rid of your hand?" Charles shifted his gaze back to Dahlia.


    "I saw Sandy kicking off her nkets and didn''t want her to catch a cold. I just forgot for a moment."


    Mentioning Sandy softened Charles'' expression. He tucked Sandy in properly before starting the car.


    ...


    It''s winter, so Adam wouldn''t really take Evelyn for a drive.


    He took her to the supermarket instead and selected many of Charlie''s favorite ingredients. They nned to celebrate with a seafood boil at Evelyn''s ce that evening.


    Back at Maple Garden, Adam carried the groceries into the kitchen and told Evelyn, who followed him in, "I''ll go chat with Charlie first. Leave the shrimp and crab for me to handle." "Okay." Evelyn nodded.


    Not long after Adam went into the spare room, the doorbell rang. Evelyn, wearing an apron, went to open the door.


    When she saw Charles, Evelyn''s smile immediately faded, and she quickly tried to shut the door.


    Charles stopped the door with his hand.


    "Charles, you''re not wee here, leave." Evelyn was firm, her voice cold as she issued her order to leave.


    "Not wee? Then who is wee?"


    Charles'' gaze turned colder as he stared at her. Suddenly, he pushed harder, forcing his way in.


    Evelyn was pushed back by his force and stumbled.


    Before she could fall, Charles caught her waist.


    "Let go!"


    After stabilizing herself, Evelyn immediately struggled to free herself. Charles didn''t let go. Instead, he kicked the door closed, turned, and pinned Evelyn against it, seizing her chin and forcing a kiss upon her without a chance for refusal. His lips pressed forcefully against hers.


    "Mmm..." Evelyn''s muffled attempts to resist were in vain. The more she struggled, the more forceful Charles'' kiss became.


    As the kiss deepened, Evelyn''s breath was taken away, and her legs weakened, leaving her unable to resist.


    The noise outside caught Adam''s attention from the side room. He came out and saw Charles on top of Evelyn.


    Adam had been displeased with Charles for a long time, and he had wanted to confront him more than once over the past five years.


    However, since Evelyn loved him so much, Adam didn''t want to put her in a difficult position and had always held back.


    Now, he could bear it no longer.


    He thought of the hurt that Charlie and Evelyn had endured because of him over the years.


    He remembered Charlie''s call from a few days ago. She excitedly told him, "Adam, I''m so happy. Daddy said he''d take me to the amusement park. It''ll be just me and him."


    Charlie was so happy and so full of anticipation, but what had Charles done?


    Adam''s eyes reddened with anger. He stormed over, grabbed Charles by the cor, and pulled him back. Then, with a backhanded punch, he hit Charles squarely in the face. Unprepared, Charles took the hit straight on. He wiped the blood from his lip, his eyes shing with fury.


    As Adam''s second punch came flying, Charles caught it and retaliated with a punch of his own.


    Adam staggered back, and before he could regain his bnce, Charles kicked him squarely in the chest.


    Adam was sent crashing into the door of the spare room.


    The door, not properly shut, swung open, revealing Charlie''s memorial photo and urn.


    "Charles, stop it!"

 Chapter 21

    Without Charles'' arms to support her, Evelyn''s legs gave way, and she almost slipped to the ground.


    Just as she steadied herself, she realized that Adam was no match for Charles at all. She immediately stumbled over, blocking Charles and preventing him fromying another hand on Adam. Charles looked down, his gaze cold as he stared at Evelyn. His voice was icy as he said, "Move aside!"


    Evelyn wouldn''t budge. Her defense of Adam only made Charles'' eyes grow colder.


    Without another word, he suddenly raised his hand, grabbed Evelyn''s arm, and, with a pull, dragged her aside.


    The moment he looked up at Adam, a gust of wind blew. With a "bang," the door to the spare room was blown shut by the wind.


    Charles didn''t notice the anomaly in the spare room and strode toward Adam.


    Adam suppressed the churning blood in his chest, stood up with a simrly cold expression, and saw Charles tossing Evelyn aside. She couldn''t keep steady and fell to the ground.


    "Evelyn!" Adam rushed over to help. Before he could get close, Charles caught his hand, lifted his leg, and kicked fiercely at his shin. Adam winced in pain. His knee weakened, and he half-kneeled on the ground. Charles twisted his hand backward. With that twist, Adam''s hand was broken.


    "Charles, stop!"


    Eyes brimming with fury, Evelyn immediately got up from the ground. Before Charles could act, she grabbed his arm to stop him. She voiced an emotional plea. "You can''t hurt his hand. It''s very important to him!" Noticing Evelyn''s worry, Charles suddenly let out a coldugh. "Adam''s hand is important, but Dahlia''s isn''t?"


    So that was it.


    Evelyn realized Charles hade believing she had intentionally hurt Dahlia''s hand, and was seeking retribution on Dahlia''s behalf.


    Evelyn conceded. "I''ve admitted my mistake. Isn''t it enough? I shouldn''t have burned Dahlia''s hand. Let go now, and I''ll apologize to her!"


    "Evelyn, why do you admit to something you didn''t do? I won''t allow you to apologize to that maniptor."


    No matter what, Adam always trusted Evelyn unconditionally, even though she hadn''t told him about this incident.


    "Charles, if you dare, break my hand-"


    "Shut up!" Evelyn, with tears in her eyes, interrupted Adam.


    She knew better than anyone how important Adam''s hand was. He was nning topete next year and dreamed of winning a gold medal. He had worked hard for many years and endured much hardship for this. Adam wanted to say more but was silenced by Evelyn''s look.


    He understood her. Once she was set on something, no one could change her mind.


    "Let go. I''ll take you to apologize."


    Charles took an intense look at Evelyn, slowly releasing his grip.


    ...


    As the evening lights came on, a ck car drove through the crowded streets.


    After getting in the car, Evelyn closed her eyes, leaning silently against the seatback. Her whole demeanor spelled out a refusal tomunicate.


    She didn''t notice that the car was not heading toward Central Hospital but toward Oakwood Manor.


    "Stay away from Adam in the future," Charles warned, his voice sounding cold.


    Evelyn could hear the warning in Charles'' words. She initially did not want to engage with Charles, but she feared he might harm Adam. Charles'' status in the Capital meant harming Adam would be easy for him. She just opened her eyes, looked at Charles, and earnestly exined, "Adam and I are just friends."


    "Huh." Charles let out a coldugh. "Friends? What kind of friends need to be all over each other?"


    Evelyn wanted to hold back, but she couldn''t. "Don''t project your filthy thoughts onto everything." As her words fell, the temperature inside the car dropped sharply.


    "What did you say?" Charles suddenly turned the steering wheel, pulling the car over to stop.


    He unbuckled his seatbelt, turned towards Evelyn, and pressed her against the car door, his gaze dangerously intense.


    His sudden closeness made Evelyn''s breath hitch. As Charles moved in to kiss her, she instinctively shrank back, tilting her head to avoid his advance.


    Determined not to let him affect her, she took a deep breath and said coldly, "Are we going to apologize to Dahlia, or not? If not, I''m getting out of the car."

 Chapter 22

    As they spoke, she was about to unbuckle her seatbelt and get out of the car.


    Charles''rge hand pressed down on hers, simultaneously closing the car door that had been opened. He stared at her with a chilling gaze. "If you''re so eager to apologize, then we''re gonna do it properly."


    Charles settled back into his seat and buckled up. He made a U-turn and headed towards Central Hospital.


    ...


    Evelyn followed Charles to the hospital''s finest ward.


    As they reached the door, it swung open from the inside. A doctor emerged from within.


    Evelyn recognized him as one of the country''s leading neurologists.


    Evelyn stood behind Charles, her gaze icy cold.


    Charlie was Charles'' daughter, but she was gravely ill and confined to a standard ward. Dahlia had only suffered a scalding from hot coffee, yet Charles, not satisfied with the treatment at a smaller hospital, had her transferred here, arranging for her to stay in the best ward and even securing the top neurologist for her.


    The difference in treatment for those dear to Charles'' heart was stark.


    Upon seeing Charles, the doctor approached with a respectful demeanor. "Mr. Jenkins, rest assured, Ms. Dahlia''s hand is fine."


    "Hmm." Charles responded indifferently.


    The doctor left.


    Charles pushed the door open and entered.


    Inside the ward, Sena immediately started defending Dahlia upon seeing Charles, "Charles, where have you been? How could you leave Dahlia alone in the hospital!"


    Sena was Charles'' cousin. She had lived with her aunt in the Jenkins family home from a young age, adopting the Jenkins surname. She was also Dahlia''s close friend.


    As soon as she finished speaking, she noticed Evelyn following behind.


    Her eyes lit up. She red at Evelyn with gleeful malice, then turned to Dahlia in bed. "Dahlia, my brother brought the main culprit here to apologize to you. I knew it. He cares so much for you. Evelyn dared to hurt you, and he certainly wouldn''t let her off!" Dahlia immediately turned to Charles disapprovingly. "Charles, you didn''t really bring Evelyn here just for my sake, did you?!"


    Charles didn''t respond; his gaze shifted to Evelyn, murky and unfathomable. She was being stubbornly defiant and did not look at him.


    Charles suddenly said in a deep voice, "Apologize!"


    Evelyn finally reacted. She looked at Charles, her voice cold. "If I apologize, can I leave?"


    Charles looked into Evelyn''s eyes, his own swirling with an intense current.


    He remained silent, and Evelyn took it as his consent. She stepped back, scoffing at Dahlia. "I''m sorry."


    The three emotionless words carried no hint of regret.


    "Evelyn, it''s okay. I know you were just impulsive at that moment..."


    Evelyn cut Dahlia off. "Dahlia, you know very well how your hand got injured. I wonder how long you can keep up this act."


    Then, she didn''t look at anyone else in the room and turned to leave.


    "Evelyn, what kind of attitude is that!" Sena grabbed Evelyn''s arm, her tone sharp.


    Sena was furious. Was this an apology? Evelyn was clearly here to make things worse for Dahlia!


    "It''s the attitude you deserve!" Evelyn unapologetically shook off Sena.


    Since Evelyn was brought into the Jenkins family at the age of eight, Sena had always been hostile towards her. She had not spared any opportunity to bully her.


    Sena was provoked by those words. She was enraged and grabbed Evelyn again.


    "Evelyn, everyone knows your sordid motives. You think you can sessfully sabotage Dahlia''s contest hopes by injuring her hand? Were you hoping to prevent her from participating in the jewelry design contest?


    "Let me tell you, my brother has already sponsored the contest. With just one call from him, Dahlia can participate.


    "Dahlia will definitely win first ce, gain Charles'' father''s approval, and marry into the Jenkins family. As for you and the little bitch you gave birth to, you''ll never set foot in the Jenkins family''s door..." "p!"


    Evelyn raised her hand, delivering a fierce p across Sena''s face.

 Chapter 23

    Sena was left stunned. Throughout her life, she had been doted on and hardly ever heard a harsh word, let alone get pped. "Evelyn, how dare you p me!"


    Furious, Sena raised her hand to p back. But her hand had barely lifted when Evelyn caught it.


    Evelyn stared at Sena, her gaze fierce, as if she was about to kill. "Sena, if I hear any more insults about Charlie from your mouth, I''ll tear it apart!"


    Sena was intimidated by the chilling aura emanating from Evelyn. Frightened, she instinctively took a step back.


    Evelyn didn''t want to stay a second longer. Sena''s insults towards Charlie and Charles'' indifference chilled her heart.


    "Charles..." As soon as Evelyn left, Sena immediately turned to Charles, crying.


    "p!"


    Charles raised his hand and pped Sena. It was a fierce p. Sena staggered a few steps, but still couldn''t stand firmly, and fell to the ground.


    She stared at Charles in disbelief. "Charles, did you just hit me?"


    She had been with her mother at the Jenkins family since she was four. The Jenkins family had no daughters, and her uncle had always treated her as his own. In the entire Jenkins family, Sena was treated as the princess. Although Charles didn''t spoil her like the others, he had neverid a finger on her.


    "Charles." Dahlia eximed. She hurriedly got up from the couch, walked swiftly to Sena, helped her up, and stood in front of her.


    Charles watched Sena coldly. "Charlie is my daughter. If this happens next time..."


    He didn''t finish his sentence, but it made Sena shiver.


    Charles left.


    Sena stood there, tears hanging in her eyes,pletely dumbfounded. Didn''t Charles hate Evelyn and her daughter? Why was he so angry?


    "Sena, Charlie is Charles'' daughter, after all. When you insult Charlie, aren''t you insulting Charles?" Dahlia helped Sena to sit down, but her tone was helpless.


    Sena knew her brother, who despised Evelyn so much, never cared about her and her child!


    ...


    Evelyn left the hospital, noticing several missed calls from Adam on her phone and messages of concern.


    She returned Adam''s call, and spoke to him briefly before hanging up.


    It was about an hour from the hospital to Maple Garden. When she got to the station, it was almost ten o''clock.


    Evelyn exited the subway station, sent a message to Adam to let him know she was safe, then put her phone in her bag and walked home.


    As she was passing an alley, suddenly, arge hand stretched out, covered her mouth, and dragged her deeper into the alley.


    Evelyn''splexion changed instantly. "Mmm..."


    She struggled fiercely, but the man was too strong, and she couldn''t break free.


    Evelyn quickly calmed herself down, remembering the pepper spray she had bought specifically for Charles a few days ago. She managed to grab it and, seizing a moment when the man behind her was off guard, sprayed it into his eyes. "Ah!" The man cried out in pain, releasing his grip on Evelyn.


    Evelyn took the opportunity to break free and started running.


    "Help!"


    While running, she screamed at the top of her lungs.


    However, this was an old residential area. It was sparsely popted, and no one heard Evelyn''s cries for help.


    She ran as fast as she could. The entrance of the alley was getting closer, but in her panic, she twisted her ankle, stumbling and falling to the ground.


    Pain surged through her. Her leg was cut by something. Ignoring the pain, she tried to get up and continue to escape.


    "Trying to run?"


    Suddenly, her hair was yanked back, and a sinister voice sounded above her head.

 Chapter 24

    The man dragged her inside once again.


    Evelyn winced in pain and instinctively reached out to scratch his hand, which was immediately marked with several bloody scratches.


    He got furious, threw Evelyn backward and pped her hard across the face. "Bitch, you had thising!"


    Evelyn was struck so hard that stars danced before her eyes, and it took her a long time to recover.


    In the dim light cast by the streemps outside, he gazed at Evelyn''s stunningly beautiful face with a sinister smile. "Just behave and it''ll be easier on you."


    Then, he lunged at her.


    "Let me go. I can pay you."


    Evelyn was both scared and panicked, but she tried to keep calm on the surface, attempting to negotiate her release with the man.


    "Money? No amount of money is as enticing as you, beauty."


    The man was unmoved,ughing lewdly and eagerly leaning down to kiss her.


    Evelyn hurriedly dodged. The man''s lipsnded on her cheek, and his foul breath made her stomach churn. Her throat was already hoarse from screaming, but she refused to give up.


    She struggled desperately, kicking and punching. The man spread her legs and pinned her down, making her immobile. His eyes were full of lust. He couldn''t wait any longer.


    With a rip, he tore open the clothes inside her coat. His actions became more frantic and rough.


    "Get off! Don''t touch me!!" Evelyn screamed fiercely. But no matter how hard she fought, she couldn''t stop the man at all.


    His coarse hands touched her, wrapping around her like a venomous snake, sending chills all over her body.


    "No!!" Evelyn''s face was filled with despai


    Just as the man was about to enter her, Evelyn suddenly felt lighter. Charles had kicked the man on top of her, and he flew into the wall with a loud crash.


    The man let out a pained grunt, fell heavily to the ground, and coughed up blood. With just one kick, he was left powerless to resist.


    Charles, radiating an intimidating aura, took a fewrge strides towards the man. He easily lifted the man, delivering punch after punch, each blownding forcefully.


    The man was beaten to the brink of death and tossed aside by Charles.


    Evelyn gazed at Charles'' tall and upright figure, dazed. The scene reminded her of when she was fourteen.


    Since she was eight, she had lived with her foster mother and the Jenkins family. Rosa treated her exceptionally well in the Jenkins household.


    Evelyn''s foster mother was a servant, but Rosa cherished her as her own granddaughter, even more so than her actual granddaughter, Sena.


    Coming from an orphanage as a frail and skinny child, Evelyn had been nurtured back to health in just a few years.


    One day, when she was targeted by local bullies and dragged into a dark alley, Charles appeared just in time. Back then, he single-handedly beat those bullies until they were gasping for breath.


    Evelyn was cowering and crying in a corner, and Charles pulled her to her feet and said, "Go on."


    She was still in a state of extreme fear. Her whole body was tense, and her reactions were slow. She heard his words and looked up at him, puzzled.


    Charles uttered coldly from his thin lips, "Hit them!"


    Hearing hismand, she instinctively shrank back. She was afraid.


    Charles frowned, effortlessly pulled her back from behind him, and pushed her forward. He said in a deep voice, "What are you afraid of? Evelyn, from now on, if anyone bullies you, fight back. Fight until they''re dead or crippled, I''ve got your back."

 Chapter 25

    At that moment, she looked into his eyes, which reflected her own image. Summoning her courage, she walked over. She kicked the bullies a few times. Her legs were still shaky, making her kicks feeble and ineffective. Charles let out a soft scoff, "You''re utterly useless." As his words fell, he lifted his foot and stomped down hard on the waist of the bully, who attempted to assault her.


    Charles incapacitated himpletely.


    In that instant, Evelyn could clearly hear her heart pounding, like it was about to leap out of her chest. Her heart had just begun to awaken to love, and now she harbored a secret. A secret about Charles.


    Once upon a time, Charles had been so good to her, but all that changed after Dahlia appeared.


    Evelyn forcefully closed her eyes, pushing down the tumultuous emotions inside her.


    When she opened her eyes again, she was calm. She leaned against the wall, struggling to stand up.


    Limping step by step, she moved closer to the man, raising her leg with all her remaining strength. She wanted to stomp down hard on the man''s waist as payback for harassing her.


    Amidst his agonized screams, her legs gave out, and her body slumped. This time, she did not fall to the ground because an arm encircled her waist from behind, pulling her into an embrace and lifting her off her feet.


    At that moment, Evelyn was too weak to struggle. Charles carried her to his car parked by the roadside. Standing by the car, he called the police.


    The police arrived quickly. After giving her statement, Evelyn left the police station at nearly midnight.


    She was about to call a taxi when Charles'' car stopped in front of her. His cool, indifferent voice reached her. "Get in."


    "No, thank you." Evelyn didn''t move.


    Charles'' expression darkened. "What, wasn''t what happened earlier enough for you? Do you want to experience it again?"


    The aftereffects of the earlier scene lingered. Evelyn didn''t insist any further. She put away her phone, opened the car door, and got in.


    As soon as she got in, she heard a scoff. Evelyn paused as she was buckling her seatbelt. She was about to get out, but the car suddenly started moving. She was unsteady, so she reached out to stabilize herself and quickly fastened her seatbelt. She turned her head, silently looking out the window.


    The police station wasn''t far from Maple Garden.


    After about fifteen minutes, the car stopped. Evelyn got out and went upstairs without looking back.


    Once home, she copsed on the sofa.


    Shey there for a while before getting up and going to the bedroom to take a shower.


    Ignoring the wound on her leg, she cleaned herself up andy in bed. As her nerves rxed, her mind was filled with the scenes from the alley.


    Even now, safe and sound, the fear and despair were inescapable and lingered in her mind. Every time she closed her eyes, that scene would reappear.


    Evelyn got up and walked to the dining table. The bottle of wine Adam had bought to celebrate with her was on the table.


    Wine was good for soothing nerves, allowing her a good night''s sleep. She opened the bottle and poured herself a ss, drinking it in one gulp. Then she poured another.


    After three sses, Evelyn felt the alcohol hit her. She wasn''t a strong drinker, and after three sses, she was noticeably tipsy. Her thoughts became muddled. While she was still slightly conscious, Evelyn pushed herself up from the table and staggered toward the bedroom.


    She had only taken a few steps when she heard the door open. Instinctively, she turned her head and saw a figure at the door, holding something.


    It was Charles.


    Evelyn opened her mouth to ask him to leave but was too dizzy. The room was spinning, and even Charles appeared as several ovepping images before her.


    She shook her head lightly, trying to clear her vision. Instead, she made herself stagger and fall forward into Charles'' arms.


    Charles wrapped his arms around her.


    Evelyn was now drunk and without her usual sharpness. She was unexpectedly docile. She leaned softly against Charles, her breath carrying a rich red wine aroma mixed with a faint scent of her own. They had had sex countless times before.


    Charles'' Adam''s apple bobbed as a hint of desire tinted his gaze.


    Evelyn, seemingly ufortable, shifted and whimpered softly against the back of the sofa, her loose nightgown twisting. With just one look, Charles'' breath hitched, a dark light shing in his eyes. His gaze towards Evelyn turned dangerous.


    The bag from the pharmacy dropped to the floor with a "thud" as Charles gripped Evelyn''s chin and leaned down to kiss her fiercely.


    Charles'' kisses were intense and forceful.


    Evelyn''s breath turned chaotic under his assault. When she got drunk, her brain ceased to function normally and was operating purely on instinct.


    She was all too familiar with Charles'' scent. Over the past five years, they had shared countless moments of intimacy. Without the control of her sober mind, her body yielded to its instincts. She no longer resisted like before and followed Charles'' lead, allowing him to do as he wished. Herpliance only intensified the desire in Charles'' eyes. His kisses deepened and his powerful hands explored her.


    She had lost weight.


    Charles frowned slightly. He was dissatisfied because her boobs felt smaller. He had always liked her previous figure - she was slim in the right areas and had curves where they mattered.


    ...


    The room was filled with a sensual atmosphere, and the temperature rose steadily.


    Charles'' defined and strong hands sped her calf, his fingers pressing directly on her wound. Pain surged through Evelyn, and she couldn''t help but cry out, "It hurts!"


    But Charles sealed her mouth, and her cry muffled like a kitten''s whimper.


    Charles'' breathing hitched. His eyes suddenly turned bloodshot.


    That cry of pain reminded him of a night five years ago. Shey in his arms, clinging to him helplessly, like a little cat, crying and pleading in his ear. "Be gentle... it hurts."


    Evelyn was young, tender andpliant, nestling in his arms. Her voice was broken, incredibly touching, but he couldn''t be gentler.


    At this moment, the images ovepped. Charlespletely lost control. Gripping Evelyn''s waist, he lifted her from the sofa and strode toward the bedroom.

 Chapter 26

    Evelyn clung to Charles, her body bouncing as he walked. The bouncing made her stomach churn. Her beautiful face twisted in difort. Just as they reached the bedside, Evelyn felt a wave of nausea.


    Charles'' expression changed instantly, and his steps halted. "Evelyn, don''t you dare..."


    Before Charles could finish his threatening words, Evelyn vomited all over him. All he could say was, "Wow." The arousal in him was instantly doused.


    Without hesitation, he flung Evelyn onto the bed as if discarding trash.


    Evelyn let out a muffled groan of difort.


    Charles stood by the bed, staring at Evelyn, who had vomited all over him yet remained clean herself. His face darkened.


    The wine was fragrant, but the vomit was extremely foul-smelling. The pungent smell aggressively invaded his nostrils. It was nauseating.


    At that moment, Charles felt an urge to strangle Evelyn. He couldn''t bear it for a second, turned and strode into the bathroom.


    Half an hourter, Charles emerged from the bathroom with a cold face. He put on the new clothes that were delivered, didn''t nce at Evelyn again, and left with a scowl.


    The following month was a busy one for Evelyn.


    She devoted all her energy to winning the million-dor prize in thepetition and buying Charlie a burial plot in a good location.


    Day and night, she poured her heart and soul into her work. Now, all that was left was to wait for the results.


    In a blink, it was the day of the award ceremony.


    Backstage, Evelyn ran into Samuel.


    "Samuel." Evelyn approached him respectfully and greeted him warmly.


    Samuel was pleased. He was always serious, but now his face softened with a rare tenderness.


    The award ceremony was in the afternoon, and the results were already out. He watched Evelyn with admiration evident in his eyes. He couldn''t help but sigh, "Evelyn, I knew it. As long as you participated, you would definitely be the champion." He had said the same thing to her five years ago, so bringing it up now made his intentions clear.


    Evelyn felt somewhat surreal. She had given her all in thispetition, but until the veryst moment, her heart was still in suspense.


    She desperately needed that million dors. She wanted toy Charlie to rest as soon as possible, hoping that Charlie could be reincarnated into a happy family soon.


    Charlie deserved to be cherished and pampered. In this life, being her daughter was too harsh for Charlie.


    Evelyn suppressed the excitement in her heart and asked cautiously, "Samuel, what do you mean?"


    "I''m looking forward to your celebration. Don''t forget to invite me." Samuel patted Evelyn''s shoulder. That was his affirmation.


    "Sure." Evelyn held back tears, nodding vigorously.


    After Samuel left, Evelyn''s tears could no longer be contained. She covered her lips, striding into the nearby restroom. She locked the door behind her, and the tears flowed freely.


    ...


    Ten minutester, Evelyn emerged from the restroom. She had been too nervous to eat lunch at noon.


    Once she rxed, she felt extremely hungry. She decided to grab a meal nearby before returning for her makeup.


    After eating, Evelyn walked out of the restaurant.


    From a distance, she saw two familiar figures. It was Charles and Dahlia.


    Dahlia was gently holding Charles'' arm, looking so very intimate.


    The organizer and chief judge of thepetition were walking with them and extremely respectful towards Charles.


    Evelyn saw the smile on Dahlia''s face, and her heart skipped a beat. A sense of unease crept up.


    She shook her head, trying not to overthink.


    ...


    There were four hours left until the award ceremony in the afternoon.


    Evelyn was backstage getting her makeup done when her phone suddenly rang. She saw it was Samuel, and her unease deepened.


    "Sorry, I need to take this call. I''ll be right back."


    Evelyn apologized to the makeup artist and stood up to answer the call in the hallway, "Hi Samuel."


    "Evelyn, don''t dwell on what I said in the hallway earlier. There will be other opportunities."


    These words shocked Evelyn so much that she nearly dropped her phone. But she couldn''t give up hope and asked, "Professor, what do you mean?"

 Chapter 27

    Samuel felt a pang of regret as well. He admired Evelyn''s talent greatly and was very satisfied with her entry. Trying tofort her, he said, "Evelyn, one setback doesn''t define anything." Samuel didn''t understand how important winning first ce was to her.


    Evelyn barely controlled her emotions and asked with a trembling voice, "Samuel, is it because my work wasn''t good enough?"


    "Of course not!" Samuel immediately denied it.


    "Then why?" The emotional turmoil inside made Evelyn''s voice sharper.


    "Evelyn, once you''re more involved in this industry, you''ll realize that often, we can''tpete against the power of money. But don''t lose heart. I believe in you. With your design talent, you''re bound to have a bright future." Evelyn fought to suppress the lump in her throat, thinking of the scene she witnessed at lunch. Her unease was confirmed at that moment.


    Evelyn suddenly asked, "The winner turned out to be Dahlia, didn''t it?"


    "How did you know?" Samuel''s instinctive question confirmed her suspicion.


    Evelyn bit her lip hard to control her emotions before saying, "Professor, I got it now."


    She didn''t bother with politeness and just hung up the phone. Her eyes reddened with fury, and like a provoked mother elephant, she dashed towards the VIP lounge where Charles was.


    The door was slightly ajar.


    Bang-


    She pushed it open forcefully. She saw Charles standing by the floor-to-ceiling window on the phone.


    Charles heard the noise and turned around with a stern face. His gaze swept coldly over Evelyn.


    He hung up the phone. "What do you want?"


    His tone was indifferent, exuding a superior''s disdain for the ordinary. Charles'' aura of nobility seemed to seep from his bones, and his stern appearance gave the feeling that everything was within his control. He was the master.


    Evelyn''s chest was heaving violently and her eyes were reddened with anger. She marched up to Charles and furiously grabbed his cor, demanding, "Charles, first ce was mine. What right did you have to give it to Dahlia?"


    Charles frowned, hisrge hand easily catching Evelyn''s wrist and pulling it away. With a push, he pressed Evelyn against the window, his body pinning hers. His lips were close to her ear as he said in an icy tone, "Evelyn, why must youpete with Dahlia for everything? What were you going to do with first ce? Weren''t you adamant about breaking up with me? What is this now? Hm?"


    Evelyn detected the sarcasm in Charles'' tone.


    That day in the hospital, Sena made it clear that Dahlia''s sudden decision to enter the design contest was to win Patrick''s approval.


    Five years ago, Charle''s father Patrick had agreed to Charles and Evelyn''s engagement because Charles'' grandmother put him under pressure. As soon as she and Charles got engaged, his grandmother fell ill and went abroad for treatment.


    Charles was reluctant to marry Evelyn from the start. The Jenkins family looked down on her, and she spent five years without any official status by Charles'' side.


    Back then, Patrick looked down on her for being a maid''s daughter, just as he did Dahlia for being a girl from a humble rural background.


    Evelyn knew Dahlia''s intentions.


    Charles'' grandmother didn''t like Dahlia, but nobody knew when she would wake up, if ever. Charles was deeply in love with Dahlia, and she just needed Patrick''s approval to marry into the Jenkins family.


    So, Charles thought that Evelyn''s participation in the jewelry design contest would help her marry into the Jenkins family too.


    "All I want is a million dors." Evelyn, unable to break free, coldly stared at Charles.


    She was after the prize money, not him. She wouldn''t want him anymore.


    Charles scoffed, "Why do you need that money?"


    Evelyn clenched her fists tighter, her eyes reddened further, and her voice became shrill, "I do! I''m not like you. To you, it''s nothing. But do you realize, that ''nothing'' is Charlie''s final resting ce!" "What do you mean?!" Charles'' expression darkened instantly, his aura turning noticeably colder.


    "What do I mean? Charles, this million dors is to buy Charlie a grave!"

 Chapter 28

    Evelyn''s scream of despair echoed through the room, fueled by Charles'' provocation.


    For the sake of Charlie, her daughter, she had thrown caution to the wind and fought with everything she had. Yet he, Charlie''s father, had prioritized paving the way for his beloved girlfriend to marry into the Jenkins family over their own child. With a single, careless sentence, he had shattered her hopes. If Charlie couldn''t find peace in the afterlife because of this...


    "Evelyn!" Charles'' face was as hard as iron, his voice thundering in anger. "You would say anything to marry me, wouldn''t you? Charlie is your daughter, but you curse her time and again. Do you even deserve to be a mother?"


    "I don''t deserve to be a mother? Charles, it''s you who doesn''t deserve to be a father! Charlie is dead! My Charlie... she''s really gone!" Evelyn''s cry of agony broke out. Tears streamed down her face,rge and unending. Even after more than a month, the thought of her daughter''s tragic death still tore her apart.


    Charles was furious. "Evelyn, enough! If you dare..."


    His further scolding was suddenly choked off.


    He watched Evelyn, whose tears were washing over her face. The despair and sorrow in her eyes were so real that Charles felt a sudden heaviness in his heart.


    In that moment, he inexplicably panicked.


    Almost instinctively, Charles denied, "That''s not possible!"


    Charlie couldn''t be dead. She was supposed to be healthy and alive.


    Evelynughed sorrowfully. Looking at Charles, who still refused to believe her, she wiped her face with one hand and suddenly grabbed his arm, "You still don''t believe it? I''ll take you to see!" Ignoring her tears, Evelyn urgently dragged Charles outside.


    Charles didn''t believe her. To him, Evelyn was a woman who never spoke the truth. Yet, his legs involuntarily followed her outside.


    ...


    As they stepped out, they bumped into Dahlia walking their way. Evelyn ignored her, continuing to pull Charles along.


    Dahlia sensed the tension, and approached with concern, "Charles, Evelyn, what''s going on?"


    "Get out of the way!" Evelyn was in no mood for pleasantries. She pushed Dahlia aside, who then stumbled to the ground with a pained grunt.


    The sound was soft but loud enough for Charles to hear. He would surely stop.


    However, to her surprise, Charles didn''t even pause, nor did he look back. In a blink, they were gone from Dahlia''s view.


    Dahlia''s expression darkened in an instant.


    ...


    This was Charles'' third visit to Maple Garden, but never had his steps felt so heavy.


    He followed Evelyn inside. Her eyes were swollen from crying, and her emotions were beginning to stabilize.


    They stopped at a side door. Evelyn turned to Charles, unlocking the door. "Go in. Charlie''s ashes and her death certificate are inside." Just as Evelyn was about to push the door open, Charles'' phone rang. The familiar ringtone halted both their actions. It was Dahlia.


    At that moment, Charles frowned but still took out his phone and answered in front of Evelyn.


    Dahlia''s voice came through first, tinged with excitement, "Charles, I saw Charlie."


    Evelyn, standing close by, heard her too.


    "Saw Charlie?"


    The words hit her hard. Evelyn''s grip on the doorknob loosened. She turned and dashed out, but after just one step, she stopped.


    The glimmer of hope in her eyes quickly extinguished.


    How could Dahlia have seen her Charlie? She was dead.


    The panic in Charles'' eyes faded quickly after Dahlia''s call. He observed Evelyn''s instinctive reaction to Dahlia''s words, and his gaze turned icy. "Keep Charlie in sight. I''m on my way."


    After hanging up, he turned and walked briskly away.


    Charles passed by Evelyn, and his voice was cold. "Evelyn, being your daughter was the greatest misfortune of Charlie''s life."


    Without another look at Evelyn, he strode off.


    Evelyn stood frozen, biting her lip, her body trembling uncontrobly. Charles''st words cut deep into her heart.


    He was right. It was the greatest misfortune to Charlie. Evelyn was unloved and had doomed Charlie to the same fate.


    ...


    Charles sped all the way to the park Dahlia had mentioned.


    The park was near the venue of the jewel designpetition. Before the car even fully stopped, Charles rushed out. He followed Dahlia''s directions and quickly found her. Charles approached swiftly.


    "Where''s Charlie?"


    Dahlia turned at the sound of his voice, her appearance unlike her usual self.


    Normally, Dahlia always presented her best self to Charles. But now, her hair was disheveled, her face flushed from running, with sweat at her temples, looking utterly disarrayed. She watched Charles, panting, and apologized, "Charles, I''m sorry, I... I couldn''t catch up..."

 Chapter 29

    As they spoke, her eyes reddened, and her face was filled with guilt.


    Charles'' expression turned stern. At that moment, he couldn''t bother tofort Dahlia. His voice was deep as he asked, "Did you get a clear look at who was holding Charlie?" He feared the worst, that it was child traffickers. Child abduction was rampant these days.


    "It was a middle-aged woman. She looked a bit like a nanny, and Charlie seemed quite attached to her," Dahlia said, her tone uncertain.


    Charles pressed on, "Which way did they go?"


    Without hesitation, Dahlia pointed in a direction. "That way."


    Charles immediately took off in pursuit. Ahead, the crowd was sparse, so if he hurried, he might catch up.


    "Ouch."


    Charles had barely taken a few steps when he heard Dahlia''s suppressed cry of pain from behind. He immediately stopped in his tracks.


    Turning around, he noticed Dahlia had been injured. Her fall had caused her skirt to lift, revealing a knee injury that was bleeding profusely. It was a ghastly sight.


    Charles quickly walked back and helped Dahlia to her feet as she was trying to get up.


    As soon as Dahlia steadied herself, she pushed Charles and urgently said, "Charles, it''s nothing serious. I''m fine. Please go after her. You''re fast. They haven''t been gone long. You can catch them."


    Even as she spoke, she disregarded the pain in her leg. She limped forward, intending to continue the chase.


    But with a step, she suddenly found herself lifted off the ground. Charles had scooped her up from behind. He didn''t continue the chase but headed towards where he had parked.


    Dahlia desperately clutched at Charles'' cor. "Charles, I''m really okay. Finding Charlie is more important. You haven''t seen her in so long."


    Hearing this, Charles'' expression grew even darker. "Let her hide away then. I want to see how long Evelyn can keep her hidden!" Charles'' tone turned cold.


    Dahlia seemed to want to say more, but she noticed his displeased expression, swallowed her words and buried her face in his chest.


    ...


    "Charles, I don''t need to go to the hospital. Can we go back to the venue? It''s just a small injury. I''m really okay."


    Dahlia held Charles'' arm, refusing his offer to take her to the hospital.


    "You know how much effort I''ve put into winning this jewelrypetition and how many nights I''ve stayed up."


    As she spoke, Dahlia''s eyes welled up with tears.


    "Do you know how happy I was when Mr. Smith let slip at lunch that I won thepetition? It''s not just because my efforts weren''t wasted. More importantly, winning means I can join Carlisle Jewels, which is a step towards our future. "Charles, I was really looking forward to tonight. You presenting the award to me, me standing proudly by your side, even if just for a brief moment."


    Dahlia gazed at Charles with emotion. Her eyes hooked his, waiting for him to give her a passionate kiss.


    "Hmm." But Charles simply hummed in response.


    He started the car and headed back to the venue. Throughout the ride, Charles was visibly upset.


    Dahlia, understanding as always, spoke up "Charles, don''t be made Evelyn probably just used Charlie to get you away from me. She just


    didn''t want to see you on stage with


    me"


    en


    "That''s no excuse for her." Charles'' voice grew colder.


    IMS


    The mention of Evelyn brought back the confrontation in the resting room. He had almost believed Evelyn''s lies.


    "But she had no other way besides using Charlie," Dahlia said carefully.


    "I won''t listen to her lies anymore. Don''t mention her again."


    Charles'' expression darkened as he spoke.


    "Alright, alright, I won''t mention her. Don''t be angry," Dahlia said, a hint of helplessness in her voice.


    ...


    Evelyn, engulfed in sadness, received a call from Samuel. "Evelyn, don''t act on impulse like that. You need toe back to the venue right away."


    Samuel thought she was upset and had stormed off because external forces had influenced thepetition''s oue.


    "Professor, I''m on my way back."


    After hanging up, sheposed herself and hurried back to the venue.


    In the parking lot, she ran straight into Charles and Dahlia. His gaze was icy as he saw Evelyn.


    Evelyn didn''t look at him; her eyes were fixed on Dahlia, who was in Charles'' arms. Suddenly, with a cold sneer, she asked, "Dahlia, did you really see Charlie?"


    Dahlia''s gaze flickered for a moment but quickly steadied. She said with certainty, "Of course, it''s true."


    Then, with an injured expression, she retorted, "Evelyn, what do you mean by that? Are you suggesting I lied to Charles?"


    "Isn''t that the case?" Evelyn pressed.


    Dahlia''s emotions surged as she eximed, "Of course not!"


    Feeling hurt, she turned to Charles,


    her eyes filled with grievance as she defended herself. "Charles, you believe me, right? I didn''t deceive you. I really saw Charlie."


    "I believe you," Charles said firmly.


    His belief visibly cooled Evelyn''s gaze even further. It was always like this. No matter what Dahlia said, Charles steadfastly chose to believe her.


    "Evelyn, I truly saw Charlie," Dahlia insisted, her words firm.


    Evelyn scoffed sarcastically, "Dahlia, I didn''t realize you had the ability to see ghosts in broad daylight..."


    Before she could finish, Charles''


    angry rebuke cut her off. "Evelyn


    enough is enough! I''m warning you,


    this is thest time. If I hear you


    curse Charlie again, I won''t be so nice."


    en

 Chapter 30

    Charles finished speaking and left in big strides with Dahlia beside him.


    Evelyn copsed. She slid down the car, bowing her head in difort. Her head was buried in her knees.


    She had returned to the venue, still harboring a sliver of hope.


    Charlie was gone. There was no way Charles would see Charlie if he rushed over. Perhaps he could believe her words and give back to her what was originally hers. However, with the attitude he showed just now, there was no turning back from tonight''s oue. A million, to the wealthy, was not much money. But to ordinary people, earning a million was not something that could be achieved quickly.


    It took Evelyn a while to adjust her emotions and go upstairs to do her makeup.


    ...


    At the award ceremony, the host was going through the process.


    Evelyn and the other finalists were waiting backstage for the results. Dahlia sat in the front row, dressed in next spring''s haute couture from the X brand collection. Charles had gotten it for her. It was her first time wearing it.


    Someone recognized it from behind and asked her uncertainly, "Dahlia, is that the X brand''stest haute couture for next spring?"


    "Yeah." Dahlia spoke softly.


    "Your boyfriend is so good to you. I''m so envious."


    Dahlia''s eyes were tender as she looked at Charles in the first row of the venue, and she said gently, "Yes, he loves me very much and treats me well."


    After speaking, amidst thepliments and envy of the crowd, she nced surreptitiously towards the shadows at the back.


    There sat Evelyn.


    ...


    On stage, the host went through the proceedings smoothly until the final award presentation.


    He opened the envelope and announced loudly, "The first ce in thispetition goes to..."


    "Dahlia."


    Evelyn''s mouth curled into a cold smile. She already knew the result, but when Dahlia''s name was spoken, she couldn''t help but clench her fists tightly. She looked up at the first row of the venue. Charles sat there elegantly, and sensing her gaze, he looked back at her. His eyes were cold, devoid of any warmth. The host continued to announce the rankings.


    "Second ce, Evelyn."


    "Third ce, Grace."


    After the announcement, apuse followed. The host said loudly, "Would the winners pleasee up to the stage?"


    Dahlia was the first to stand up, walking towards the stage with confident and elegant steps. Her makeup was exquisite, and her haute couture dress was dazzling.


    As soon as Dahlia appeared, she immediately became the focus of the entire venue. Below the stage, the apuse was thunderous.


    Dahlia''s smile deepened. It greatly satisfied her vanity.


    However, her moment of glorysted only a few seconds.


    When Evelyn followed her and stood next to her, Dahlia could clearly feel everyone''s gaze shifting from her to Evelyn, including Charles''. She even saw a sh of amazement i his eyes.


    The smile on Dahlia''s lips almost faltered. Her meticulous outfit couldn''tpare to Evelyn''s casual attire. Dahlia''s hands, lightly lifting her skirt, clenched tightly to maintain aposed smile.


    The three of them went up on stage.


    After lining up, the host continued with the proceedings. "Next, the CEO of Jenkins Enterprises, Charles, will present the award to Ms. Dahlia, our first-ce winner today." Charles'' appearance at thispetition was unexpected. The tall and handsome man immediately drew everyone''s attention back to Dahlia.


    Evelyn''s lips maintained a polite


    smile, but the smile didn''t reach her eyes. She coldly watched as Charles handed Dahlia the prize money he


    had personally funded-the money she would''ve used for Charlie''s grave.


    Hatred surged in Evelyn''s heart.


    Out of the corner of his eye, Charles noticed Evelyn''s gaze towards him. When Dahlia hooked her arm around his for a photo, Charles did not refuse.

 Chapter 31

    The room was electrified.


    Everyone knew Charles had a family and was renowned for his integrity and fidelity. Yet, this was the first time he had ever been seen so intimate with another woman in public.


    Spections flew about Dahlia''s attire, with whispers suggesting she might be the elusive Mrs. Jenkins.


    "Come to think of it, Dahlia and Mr. Jenkins'' silhouettes do remind me of the back view from the photo leaked a month ago when Mr. Jenkins rented out Disnend for his daughter''s birthday."


    This mention brought Evelyn back to the day of her daughter''s cremation, her gaze towards Charles turning even colder.


    Then, the presenter spoke again. "Next, we have the honor of having Mr. Brooks, the CEO of Robinson Group, to present the award to our second-ce winner, Ms. Evelyn."


    Brooks'' name stirred the crowd once more.


    The Robinson family, like the Jenkins, was a century-old dynasty in the Capital. Brooks was the current leader of the family. He and Charles were considered the most distinguished men of their generation among the Capital''s elite families. As murmurs filled the air, Evelyn''s eyes followed the spotlight to see a tall, attractive man in a dark grey suit gently standing up.


    His features were sharp, exuding an aura of authority. He walked up the stage and epted the trophy from the presenter with a nod, maintaining a reserved demeanor.


    However, when he approached Evelyn, his aloofness vanished, reced by a slight smile. "Congrattions."


    "Thank you," Evelyn''s cold facade melted into a sincere smile as she took the trophy.


    During the photo session, they stood side by side, a match in grace and appearance that stirred excitement backstage.


    Charles was clearly there for Dahlia. Could Brooks be here for Evelyn?


    Charles heard the backstage chatter and witnessed Evelyn smile at Brooks and Brooks'' special attention to her. His expression darkened instantly.


    The presenter continued with the ceremony.


    "Lastly, we invite Ms. Christy, the lead designer of Carlisle Jewels, to present the award to our third-ce winner, Ms. Grace."


    Christy stepped up and presented the award to Grace. After the presentation, she turned to Dahlia. "Wee to Carlisle Jewels. Good luck."


    Dahlia immediately grasped Christy''


    hand, basking in her unique moment of glory, "I''m honored to join Carlisle Jewels and to be your apprentice. I look forward to learning from you."


    Winning thepetition meant not only receiving the one million dor prize money but, more importantly, an entry ticket to Carlisle Jewels as Christy'' apprentice. Christy'' mentor was Taylor, the founder of Carlisle Jewels and a globally renowned genius designer. Her designs were adored bydies and socialites worldwide.


    Taylor''s extensivework spanned the military, politics, business, and even international royalty. Being favored by Taylor and bing her apprentice essentially meant ess to these influentialworks, which was exactly what Patrick valued.


    "Your design is impressive. I have high hopes for you. Keep it up," Christy said, ncing at Charles and offering Dahlia polite encouragement. Dahlia was overjoyed. "Thank you. I''ll do my best."


    What did it matter if Evelyn was more talented or if her designs were superior? Dahlia was the winner, and she was joining Carlisle Jewels!


    The jewelrypetition was held


    once every three years. Even if


    1.n


    Evelyn had a chance to win the next one, Dahlia would have already. made a name for herself. Dahlia believed Evelyn would never be able to surpass her.


    While Dahlia was reveling in her victory, Christy announced, "I have another piece of good news to share."

 Chapter 32

    In the midst of the conversation, she nced at Evelyn. In that look, the admiration she held for Evelyn, was unmistakably present in her eyes.


    She adored Evelyn''stest design piece. In her heart, Evelyn was the true winner.


    "Given that the second and third ce participants also performed exceptionally well in thispetition, the executives at Carlisle Jewels have unanimously decided to offer internships to both. We hope all three of you will continue to push forward, striving to create more and better works."


    As soon as these words were announced, the room erupted into a buzz of excitement.


    Getting into Carlisle Jewels was every jewelry designer''s dream. Naturally, it was Evelyn''s dream, too. She could hardly believe her ears.


    "Really? That''s amazing!"


    The joyous exmation from Grace, who ced third, and the grimace on Dahlia''s face made it clear she hadn''t misheard.


    It was real!


    Dahlia''s expression was beyond ugly at this point. Initially, it was understood that only the first-ce winner would get into Carlisle Jewels. And now, Evelyn was in too!


    Dahlia clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms.


    After the thunderous apuse, the award ceremony concluded.


    The host announced, "The ceremony is over. Please exit the stage in an orderly fashion."


    Charles and Dahlia left from the left side. Dahlia, arm in arm with Charles, deliberately walked past Evelyn.


    Evelyn chose to exit on the right side, with Brooks closely behind. He was a true gentleman, allowing Evelyn to go first.


    Evelyn''s skirt was too long, and her heels were too high. When she started to descend the stairs, she identally stepped on her dress.


    "Ah!" She let out a soft cry and was about to tumble to the ground.


    "Be careful!" Brooks extended his long arm in time, gently wrapping it around her waist.


    His action was gentlemanly, and he did not touch her inappropriately. Only after Evelyn had steadied herself did he withdraw his hand.


    Evelyn was a bit shaken, her eyes reddening, and she thanked him with a tremble, "Thank you."


    "You''re wee." Brooks gave her a slight smile.


    After speaking, he extended his arm, gesturing for her to hold onto him as they descended.


    Evelyn paused for a moment, then without any pretense, she gave Brooks a grateful smile. "Thank you!"


    Then, gracefully, she ced her hand on his arm and descended withposure.


    Brooks was the epitome of a gentleman, supporting her all the way backstage.


    Charles say this entire scene, and his face darkened to the extreme When he saw Evelyn and Brooks exchanging smiles, the chill in his eyes could freeze someone to death.


    "Dahlia, you were amazing! I knew for sure you would take first ce!"


    Sena was unaware of the turn of events. She only knew that Dahlia was the winner, held a bouquet of flowers and joyously congratted her.


    Dahlia wasn''t in the best of moods


    but still managed to force a smile She gently inhaled the scent of the


    flowers and tenderly said, "the


    you, Sena."


    Evelyn walked by from the other side and needed to pass by the two. She ignored them and walked straight past.


    As they brushed past each other, Sena caught a glimpse of Evelyn and, with a sense of schadenfreude, sarcastically said, "Some people will stop at nothing, yet in the end, it''s all for naught. Tsk, tsk, tsk,


    swnthem


    right."

 Chapter 33

    "How do you think Dahlia got first ce? Do you really have the cheek to gloat in front of me?" Evelyn''s icy gaze swept towards Sena, retorting without any courtesy.


    "Evelyn, I know you''re not happy about losing to me, but that doesn''t mean you can just say whatever you want." Dahlia frowned, her words carrying a sense of righteousness. "Am I really just talking nonsense?" Evelyn sneered.


    "Dahlia, don''t listen to her. She''s just jealous because she can''t have what you have!"


    Sena watched Evelyn with scorn. Her next words were even sharper. "Evelyn, just look at that ugly face of yours, twisted by jealousy. It''s disgusting! You''re right. My cousin helped Dahlia win first ce..." "Sena!" Dahlia sharply interrupted, her face burning with embarrassment.


    Seeing Sena still smug, Dahlia felt her face go green. Sena, with her thoughtless bbering, was so stupid.


    Evelyn had no proof of the inside story behind Dahlia''s first-ce win. And now, Sena had just handed Evelyn the ammunition to embarrass Dahlia her own words.


    "Dahlia, you''re too kind to worry about her feelings." Sena was enjoying herself. She did not to miss the opportunity to needle Evelyn. Evelyn loved her cousin so much, so knowing it was Charles who helped Dahlia must have been killing her. The more Evelyn suffered, the happier Sena became.


    "Evelyn, Charles simply adores Dahlia and even wants to marry her. What''s the use of you striving for first ce? With just one word from him, he could give first ce to Dahlia. He loves Dahlia so much he would break his principles for her..." "What are you talking about?" Charles'' voice suddenly rang out, startling both Dahlia and Sena, turning their faces pale.


    Dahlia was extremely panicked inside. Charles hated nothing more than underhanded tactics. If he found out how she really got first ce...


    "Hi Charles. Dahlia suppressed her


    unease and turned around with a smile. She discreetly observed Charles, noticed his expression was normal, and finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    He hadn''t heard any of it.


    ...


    Evelyn removed her makeup,


    changed her clothes, and headed to the parking lot. Away from everyone''s gaze, the forced smile on her lips instantly disappeared.


    The thought of Charlie unable to rest in peace tormented her.


    With heavy steps and her head down, Evelyn walked towards where her car was parked.


    Just a few steps away, a ck Maybach stopped beside her. The rear window rolled down, revealing Brooks'' handsome and distinguished face. "Ms. Evelyn."


    Evelyn looked at Brooks with confusion, unsure why such an influential figure was seeking her out.


    "Ms. Evelyn, I''m very interested in the jewelry you designed for thispetition. Do you have time to talk?"


    "Yes!" Evelyn''s eyes sparkled.


    As soon as she responded, the driver had already stepped out to open the car door for her. Evelyn bent down to get into the car.


    A few meters away, Charles watched the scene unfold.


    His handsome face darkened, and


    under the dim and unclear light, his eyes seemed like an unfathomable abyss, with mes leaping within them. He looked ready to burn someone to ashes.

 Chapter 34

    At a restaurant, Brooks, ever the gentleman, gracefully pulled out a chair for Evelyn.


    "Thank you." Evelyn expressed her gratitude as she took a seat.


    Brooks was said to be the epitome of cultivation and chivalry, and indeed, his reputation was well-earned.


    Brooks sat down.


    After ordering their meals, neither of them spoke. Evelyn waited for Brooks to start a conversation about her work, but Brooks just kept gazing at her.


    His gaze was gentle, not at all off-putting. Yet being stared at like this made Evelyn somewhat ufortable. She furrowed her brows slightly and met his gaze.


    Her expression turned a bit cold. She wondered if he was ying with her. Could it be that his good reputation was undeserved, and he was actually a yboy? "Do you really not remember me?"


    Just as Evelyn was secretly harboring doubts, Brooks spoke in a deep, unhurried, maic voice.


    "Sorry?" Evelyn was puzzled and stared at Brooks.


    What did he mean? Did they know each other?


    "When do you n to return my pen?" he asked again.


    "What?" Evelyn was bewildered andpletely at a loss.


    Brooks'' eyes dimmed slightly at her genuinely confused expression. Back then, Evelyn had eyes only for Charles.


    "Never mind, I must have mistaken you for someone else." Brooks tactfully changed the subject.


    Evelyn sat up straight, feeling a bit awkward.


    Thankfully, Brooks quickly got to the point. "Ms. Evelyn, I would like to purchase yourtest design for one million dors. Would that be eptable?" "One million?" Evelyn''s mouth dropped open in disbelief.


    "Do you think the price is too low? No worries, we can negotiate further-"


    "No, no, no!" Evelyn hastily interrupted him. "It''s more than enough, Mr. Brooks. What I mean is... it''s too generous."


    "The winner''s work this time is worth it. Why wouldn''t it be?"


    Brooks spoke calmly, but it was clear he looked down upon Dahlia''s work. He was belittling Dahlia, feeling indignant on Evelyn''s behalf. Evelyn picked up on it. Brooks slid a check across the table to her.


    Evelyn hesitated for a second before picking up the check, offering Brooks a genuinely grateful smile. "Mr. Brooks, thank you for your appreciation."


    She carefully ced the check in her bag, zipping it up before taking one more nce at the million-dor figure written on it.


    Her eyes welled up with tears. Charlie could finally rest in peace.


    Fearing her emotions would get the better of her, Evelyn stood up, bid Brooks farewell, and headed to the restroom topose herself.


    ...


    After regaining herposure, Evelyn exited the restroom.


    As she was washing her hands at themunal sink, a strong hand suddenly wrapped around her waist, pulling her into the adjacent men''s restroom. "Charles, have you lost your mind? Let go of me!"


    Evelyn''s expression changed instantly. She was both embarrassed and annoyed!


    The moment she was dragged in, she closed her eyes. She didn''t see the yellow sign at the door.


    "Click-"


    The stall door locked, and Charles forcefully pressed Evelyn against the door. "Who allowed you to have dinner with Brooks?!"


    His breath was hot, and his deep, maic voice carried a chilling coldness. His actions were domineering, barely concealing his possessiveness over Evelyn.


    "Charles, let''s get this straight. We''re over! I have no ties with you now. What right do you have to care who I dine with?"


    Evelyn was very nervous. She lowered her voice, staring at Charles with cold sarcasm.


    "Over? Did I agree to that? I haven''t said yes, and you are finding someone else. Evelyn, do you think I''m dead?"


    Charles'' gaze was icy. He looked like he could devour her.


    Evelyn met Charles'' eyes. She knew very well that his refusal to ept their breakup wasn''t out of love. To him, she was only an object of desire, not love.


    His refusal was simply because he felt he should be the one to make decisions. He could leave her, but not the other way around.


    ''Ha,'' she scoffed in her heart and mercilessly replied, "Yes. I truly believe you''re already dead..."


    Before she could finish her sentence, Charles seized her jaw and kissed her.


    Evelyn red fiercely at Charles, and clenched her teeth tightly.


    Dissatisfied, Charles bit down hard on Evelyn''s lower lip.


    She winced in pain. With a hiss, she inhaled sharply, giving Charles the opportunity he needed. He seized her breathlessly.


    As Evelyn''s eyes reddened, she took advantage of Charles'' brief pause for breath to bite down hard on his lip. The taste of blood immediately filled the space between their lips and teeth.  en


    The pain didn''t make Charles release her; instead, it seemed to provoke him further, his eyes turning bloodshot as he kissed her even deeper.


    The kiss nearly suffocated Evelyn. It was only after what seemed like an eternity that Charles finally released her lips.


    He kissed Evelyn until she was


    almost out of breath, and her strength was drained. As he let go her legs weakened, nearly causing her to copse. But he caught Ker with one arm, pulling her back into his embrace.


    Charles looked down at the petite girl in his arms. He had kissed her too harshly. Her eyes were red-rimmed and moist, looking so pitiful.


    He didn''t realize that when she looked at him like this, it only made him want to bully her more.


    Charles leaned down to kiss her eyelids, his fingertips tracing her sweat-dampened skin at her waist. His lips barely touched her ear as he huskily said, "Be good."


    Evelyn lowered her eyelids. Her eyes were void of emotion.


    She leaned against the door and caught her breath.


    As she regained her strength, suddenly....

 Chapter 35

    Evelyn lifted her leg and kicked Charles hard on the shin.


    Charles was caught off guard. The pain made him gasp, involuntarily stepping back.


    Evelyn pushed him hard, sending Charles tumbling onto the toilet seat. Seizing the moment, she pulled open the bathroom door and quickly left.


    Charles emerged from the stall shortly after. Standing at the door, his gaze on Evelyn''s retreating figure was like that of a hunter eyeing his prey, wishing he could devour her then and there.


    Not far away, Dahlia stood hidden behind some greenery. Her hands were clenched tightly.


    Whether it was five years ago or five years from now, everyone knew Charles loved Dahlia because he showered her with endless favoritism.


    However, he had never looked at Dahlia with such intensity.


    ...


    When Evelyn returned, dinner had already been served for a while. Brooks hadn''t started eating and was waiting for her.


    "Mr. Brooks, I''m sorry," Evelyn apologized.


    "It''s okay." Brooks'' gaze lingered on Evelyn''s swollen lips for a second before he looked away.


    Evelyn, trying to hide her embarrassment, lowered her head as she ate, her ears turning red. She had fixed her clothes on the way back, but the swollen lips, clearly kissed by Charles, were unmistakable to the discerning eye. By the time dinner was finished, it was almost 10 PM.


    Brooks was paying the bill when he said to Evelyn, "Let me give you a ride."


    "Thank you, Mr. Brooks."


    Evelyn didn''t refuse and waited aside for him. Suddenly, a forceful grip seized Evelyn''s wrist, pulling her away from Brooks and into a familiar chest.


    Charles gripped Evelyn''s waist tightly, pressing her against him as he coldly addressed Brooks, "She''s my woman. I''ll take care of her myself. Mr. Brooks, you need not trouble yourself."


    After saying this, Charles forcibly led Evelyn outside.


    Brooks instinctively raised his hand to intervene but silently let it fall back to his side. He knew of Evelyn and Charles'' rtionship.


    Back in the day, Evelyn''s love for Charles was public knowledge.


    Evelyn''s expression turned cold when they walked a few steps away from Brooks. She tried to pry Charles'' hand off, hissing. "Charles, I''m not your woman. Let go!"


    Charles'' expression darkened, his grip tightening evidently.


    Evelyn winced in pain, her grip turning fiercer, but Charles'' hand was like a vice, firmly imprisoning her against him. No matter how much she pinched or pulled, he wouldn''t let go, forcefully dragging her outside. Evelyn couldn''t help but sneer, "Charles, as the head of the Jenkins family, aren''t you ashamed to be clinging to an ex in public?"


    Dahlia emerged from the restroom and found Charles gone, so she immediately followed. She saw Charles holding Evelyn and stepped forward. "Charles..."


    Charles ignored herpletely. Just as he was about to drag Evelyn away, Dahlia thought of the scene she witnessed outside the restroom, and felt a surge of hatred and anger.


    She swayed, appearing to falter. "Charles..."


    Charles paused, his gaze shifting to Dahlia. He noticed her paleplexion and her copsing figure, quickly let go of Evelyn''s hand, and caught Dahlia before she hit the ground. "Dahlia..."


    The moment she was caught, Dahlia fainted and slumped into his arms. Charles immediately lifted her in his arms and briskly walked away.


    When he had let go of Evelyn, who had been struggling violentl, she was thrown off bnce and crashed into a vase. The vase shattered upon hitting the ground.


    Evelyn''s handnded on the fragments.


    "Ah!" The pain made Evelyn cry out.


    "Ms. Evelyn..."


    Everything happened so fast. Brooks wanted to help but couldn''t do it in time. He watched as Evelyn fell amidst the vase fragments.


    When he rushed to Evelyn''s side, her face was pale with fear. She stared at her blood-covered hand, her voice trembling as she said, "My hand..."


    "Don''t worry, it''ll be okay. I''ll take you to the hospital." Brooks moved to help her up.


    Evelyn''s legs were weak. She feared her hand would be ruined. She had promised Charlie she would be a great designer. Her hand couldn''t be ruined. "Ms. Evelyn, I apologize for the intrusion."


    Evelyn couldn''t walk, so Brooks lifted her in his arms and quickly headed to his car.


    ...


    The doctor carefully examined


    Evelyn and then said, "Don''t worry, the nerves are not damaged. You can be at ease. Stay overnight for observation, and you will be discharged in the morning.


    Evelyn, who had been tense, finally rxed.


    Brooks helped with the hospital admission procedures, and she thanked him.


    "Rest well." Brooks instructed before dimming the ward''s lights and leaving.


    The ward door closed.


    The night deepened.


    Ever since Charlie left, Evelyn''s sleep quality had worsened. She was


    relying on medication. Without taking her medication that night, her sleep was restless, gued by nightmares.


    In the middle of the night, she vaguely felt someone at her bedside. A very familiar presence was


    watching her for a long time. Homet:


    thoughts were too blurry to distinguish between reality and a dream.


    The next morning, with one hand bandaged, Evelyn went toplete the discharge procedures on her own.


    "Evelyn!" Dahlia called out to her, reaching for her injured hand.


    Evelyn dodged, ignoring her, and continued forward.


    Dahlia blocked her path again. "Evelyn, do you think ying both sides is that fun? You said you broke up with Charles. What are you doing now?"


    "I advise you not to waste your effort. Charles only has room for me in his heart. No matter how many tricks you y, he won''t fall for you!


    "To him, you''re nothing but a tool for relief."


    "p!"


    Evelyn raised her hand and delivered a p to Dahlia''s face.

 Chapter 36

    Her movements were lightning-fast, and Dahlia was caught off guard and was struck square in her face. Her expression changed in an instant.


    Without Charles around, Dahlia''s face twisted in rage, and she raised her hand to strike back.


    But Evelyn caught her hand mid-air, threw her off with force, and coldly warned her, "Dahlia, instead of troubling me, you''d better take care of Charles and keep him from harassing me again!" Then, she turned and walked away.


    ...


    After finishing the discharge procedures, Evelyn headed towards the elevator. She passed the nurse''s station, where two nurses were whispering about thetest gossip.


    Avery had just witnessed the scene between Evelyn and Dahlia and came back to vent to Beatrice, "I was wondering why someone could be so heartless. It turns out it''s a love rival situation." "What?" Beatrice, who was tidying up, casually responded.


    "Do you remember Charlie? That beautiful, cute, and well-behaved little girl."


    Hearing the name, Evelyn stopped in her tracks.


    Then Beatrice continued, "Of course, I remember. She was such a charming little girl." As she said so, her eyes reddened.


    The nurses saw a lot of life and death in the hospital, but Charlie was too endearing.


    Even though she was often hospitalized, her cute face was always filled with a joyful smile. She said she didn''t want to worry her mom and was exceptionally thoughtful and understanding. During her stay, both doctors and nurses adored her. "Exactly, that was the girl. On the day she died, her mom was crying her heart out while Ms. Dahlia stood at the corner, smiling so happily. I still remember that smile to this day. It gives me chills just thinking about it." "Woah, she''s so evil..."


    "She has a daughter herself, who is also sick. Doesn''t she fear retribution?"


    Evelyn froze in ce. The nurses'' words struck her heart like thunder.


    So, Dahlia had known about Charlie''s death from that day!


    She thought of how Dahlia had behaved around her recently, and clenched her fists.


    "Evelyn, you can''t do that to your hand."


    Adam quickly stepped forward, grabbing Evelyn''s wrist to stop her from clenching her fist. He hade to pick up Evelyn and apany her to buy a gravesite for Charlie. Evelyn was startled and immediately rxed her hand.


    "Did you hurt the wound? Come on, let''s see a doctor." Adam was very anxious. His hand was important, and so was Evelyn''s.


    Evelyn didn''t refuse. Together, they went to book an appointment with the doctor.


    Only after confirming her hand was alright did Adam rx. "What happened just now? What were you thinking about?" Adam turned his head to ask Evelyn. "Nothing. I was just lost in thought."


    Evelyn didn''t tell Adam her thoughts. He was too protective of her and loved Charlie dearly. She was afraid he would act impulsively and confront Dahlia. Dahlia was Charles'' beloved, and hurting Dahlia meant Charlie would not leave Adam unscathed.


    They left together.


    Adam asked, "Have you decided on a time for Charlie''s burial?"


    "Yes, this Sunday."


    As they spoke, they reached the elevator and entered.


    After the elevator doors closed, a figure emerged from beside the greenery. It was Dahlia.


    ...


    Charles walked in Greenrose Manor under the moonlight, and as soon as he entered, Sandy rushed into his arms excitedly. "Daddy, Daddy! have really good news to tell you."


    en


    "What good news?" The coldness in Charles'' eyes melted away, and his tone became tender.


    "Today, I won third ce in the kindergarten''s running race! Aren''t I amazing?" Sandy''s eyes curved, her little face brimming with happiness.


    "Yes! Absolutely amazing!" Charles watched the healthy little girl and affectionately stroked her head.


    "Daddy, I am so happy. This is the first time I participated in a running race with other kids!" Sandy nestled into Charles'' embrace.


    "You are so amazing, so should we celebrate properly?" Dahlia came out of the kitchen, pinched Sandy''s nose, and teased her on purpose.


    "Really? Are we going to have a celebration for me? Can I invite all my kindergarten friends over?" Sandy immediately seized the


    opportunity. She lifted her little d


    her eyes full of hope as she looked at Dahlia.


    Dahlia lightly tapped her on the head, pretending to be annoyed. "You sweet girl, you''re actually taking it seriously!"


    Sandy turned to Charles, acting spoiled. "Daddy..."


    "Alright." Charles agreed.


    "Yay, I love you Daddy the most." Sandy happily kissed Charles on the cheek.


    "Charles, you spoil her too much!" Dahlia disapproved.


    Charles, full of affection, said, "Sandy''s recovery is definitely worth celebrating."


    "Then shall we set it for this Sunday?" Dahlia suggested casually.


    "Sure." Charles had no objections.


    Dahlia smiled slightly.


    ...


    In a blink, it was Sunday. It was the day of Charlie''s burial. Adam stood by Evelyn''s side the entire time until the funeral was over.


    "Adam, I want to spend some more time alone with Charlie." Evelyn''s eyes were swollen from crying, and she spoke to Adam in a hoarse voice.


    Adam had training in the afternoon. He had taken leave to attend Charlie''s funeral.


    "Don''t go back home toote, Evelyn. Look ahead. Charlie would wish for your happiness." Adam knelt down and hugged Evelynfortingly before leaving. "Okay," Evelyn replied softly, her eyes reddening again.


    She knelt in front of the tombstone, her face pressed against it, and her fingers gently touched her daughter''s small face on the stone.


    Over and over again, she was engulfed in her grief, and then her pocketed phone suddenly began to vibrate.


    Evelyn thought it might be Adam worrying about her, and took out her phone.


    It wasn''t Adam, but Dahlia.


    She was in no mood to deal with it


    at the moment. Just as she was about to hang up, she identally hit the answer button, and Dahlia''s warm voce filled her ear. "Evelyn Sandy came third in her kindergarten sports day. Charles and I are celebrating her achievement today at the Pearl Hotel. Sandy wants to invite Charlie to join us. Should I have Charlese pick you and Charlie up?"


    Evelyn, who had intended to end the call, felt a sudden chill at the mention of Charlie.

 Chapter 37

    Dahlia was well aware that Charlie had passed away. Yet, she brought up Charlie over and over again in front of her.


    Evelyn was certain that Dahlia had made that call on purpose! She deliberately chose the day of Charlie''s funeral to celebrate Sandy''s nonsensical third-ce win on sports day. She''s putting on this disy for Charlie.


    Dahlia enjoyed boasting about how much Charles adored Sandy over Charlie.


    When Charlie was alive, Dahlia took advantage of Charles'' absolute favoritism towards her and Sandy and never spared Charlie from difort. Now that Charlie was deceased, they still wouldn''t let Charlie her in peace. What an insult! Dahlia''s actions were unforgivable!


    "Evelyn, are you listening?" Dahlia''s voice was still soft.


    Evelyn felt utterly disgusted. A cold smile spread across her lips as she responded, "Sure."


    Then, she hung up the phone.


    As Evelyn stood up, she kissed Charlie''s picture gently. "Charlie, I won''t let you suffer any more indignities."


    ...


    Dahlia''s smile stiffened noticeably when she heard Evelyn say, "Sure." She hadn''t expected Evelyn to actually agree to show up.


    "Why did you invite Evelyn to Sandy''s celebration?" Charles frowned upon hearing this.


    "Don''t you want to see Charlie?" Dahlia said softly.


    Charles didn''t say anything more; indeed, it had been a long time since hest saw her.


    Dahlia watched Charles'' reaction, and her hands clenched tighter at her sides. She had done everything in her power to tarnish Charlie''s image in Charles'' heart. She made him dislike Charlie and keep his distance from her by drawing him closer to Sandy instead. Even so, he still cared deeply for her. Blood was thicker than water, after all.


    Fortunately, Charlie was dead.


    A vicious gleam shed in Dahlia''s eyes.


    ...


    Half an hourter, Evelyn appeared at Pearl Hotel dressed in ck.


    The grand banquet hall in front of her was decorated with colorful flowers and


    Dalloons. It


    beautiful, like a castle out of a dream.


    There was a delicate statue at the


    entrance. On it were words engraved in gold Congrattions to c


    Sandy for securing Our


    ce!]


    The coldness on Evelyn''s lips deepened.


    Her daughter was cremated, and Charles rented Disney to watch fireworks with Sandy.


    Charlie had just been buried, yet Charles booked the hotel''s banquet hall to celebrate Sandy''s insignificant third-ce win on sports day. He really was a "great" father!


    Dahlia saw Evelyn first. She was stunned for a moment, then quickly approached her. "Evelyn, you''re here."


    Charles was inside ying with


    balloons with Sandy when he heard


    the noise outside. He immediately


    stood up and strode t


    entrance.


    the


    He only saw Evelyn standing at the entrance, without Charlie by her side. His gaze darkened, and his expression grew somber. Dahlia caught a glimpse of Charles walking over, and spoke first, "Evelyn, why did youe alone? Where''s Charlie?"


    Evelyn faced the pretentious Dahlia, suddenly stepped forward, and raised her hand.


    "p!"


    "p!"


    "p!"


    "p!"


    Several psnded harshly on Dahlia''s face.


    Evelyn''s eyes were bloodshot with hatred. "Dahlia, you knew very well that Charlie is already dead..."


    Before Evelyn could finish, Charles interrupted her with a cold voice. "Evelyn, don''t push my limits!"


    His face was stern, and his gaze was ominous. He took a fewrge steps, reached Dahlia''s side, and grabbed Evelyn''s wrist.

 Chapter 38

    He tightened his grip, and a sharp pain followed.


    Evelyn''s hand loosened. Dahlia immediately turned and threw herself into Charles'' arms. She covered her red and swollen cheek, stared at Evelyn with tears in her eyes, and used her, "Evelyn, Charlie is your daughter. Why do you curse her to die, time and time again? Just because she couldn''t win Charles'' affection for you?"


    "Dahlia, mention Charlie one more time, and believe me, I will ruin your mouth!" A vicious light shed in Evelyn''s eyes as she red fiercely at Dahlia.


    Even in death, Charlie was not spared from Dahlia''s malice.


    "You''re bullying my mom. You''re a wicked woman. You''re just like Charlie. You only know how to bully me and Mom."


    Hearing themotion outside, Sandy, dressed in a beautiful princess dress, rushed out to Evelyn''s side. She grabbed Evelyn''s hand and bit down hard. Evelyn, with a cold face, pulled her hand back.


    Sandy lost her bnce and fell to the ground. Shey down, forgetting that right behind her was a freshly delivered cake tower, and fell into it.


    Sandy initially pretended to cry, but once she saw the destroyed cake tower and her stained princess dress, she couldn''t hold back any longer. She burst into tears. "Sandy."


    Dahlia rushed over, lifting Sandy from the cake, her eyes red with grievance. "Evelyn, you''ve gone too far! Sandy is just a child. How could youy a hand on her!" "Daddy, it hurts." Sandy immediately cried out to Charles with open arms. In front of Evelyn, she acted like a pitiful girl towards Charles.


    Every time, Charles was nice to her and doted on her, Charlie would always be envious and secretly sad, Whenever she became sad, Evelyn would feel sad, too. Their sadness would make Dahlia very happy.


    Charles saw Sandy crying so heartbrokenly and changed his expression to one of utter coldness. "Evelyn, what are you ying at?!"


    Evelyn watched themotion, and her lips curved into a mocking smile.


    Charles still thought Evelyn was making a fuss because he once stood Charlie up, making her follow in a fit of tantrum.


    Even though Evelyn had told him more than once that Charlie was dead, he never believed it. It was utterly ridiculous.


    "Making a fuss? What fuss am I making? Wasn''t it Dahlia who called me here?"


    Evelyn''s gaze was filled with mockery as she watched them acting in unison, her tone extremely cold.


    Dahlia''s eyes reddened further, feeling even more aggrieved.


    "Yes, it was me who invited you over. But I did it out of respect for Charles. After all, Charlie is his daughter, and it went to is his I didn''t want to put him in a difficult position. But if you''re here to cause trouble, then you''re not wee. Please leave immediately!


    The celebration was set to start at 2 PM. It was already 1:30 PM, with only half an hour left until guests would arrive one after another?


    Dahlia couldn''t wait to get Evelyn out


    of there.


    en


    "Dahlia, it''s easy to invite the devil in but hard to send him away." As Evelyn''s words fell, she suddenly reached out and grabbed the red cloth on the table. Dahlia''s pupils shrank as she realized what Evelyn intended to do.


    "Stop!"

 Chapter 39

    In her gasp of shock, Evelyn did not hesitate to pull with all her might.


    "Crash-"


    The desserts, wines, and soft drinks on the table instantly spilled everywhere, falling to the ground. The ce was aplete mess. "Evelyn, stop!" Charlesmanded her sternly.


    Stop?


    Evelyn sneered. She came here today to ruin the celebration Dahlia and Sandy were showing off.


    Amidst Charles'' angry shouts, Evelyn acted again, overturning the disyed gifts. The gifts all fell amidst the chaos, turning into trash.


    "No!" Sandy cried even louder. She watched as Evelyn destroyed the party her parents had meticulously arranged for her. She wanted to show off to her kindergarten friends. Now, it was all ruined. "Evelyn, this is too much!" Dahlia''s eyes were red with anger. She stood up and quickly rushed towards Evelyn.


    As Evelyn reached the side of the champagne tower, Dahlia grabbed her hand and tried to push her onto it. If Evelyn had crashed onto it, her face would have been ruined.


    However, Evelyn reacted swiftly. The moment Dahlia grabbed her, she pulled back.


    Dahlia lost her bnce. "Ah!" With that scream, Dahlia fell onto it.


    "Crash-"


    The champagne tower toppled, shattering on the ground.


    Dahlia fell among the pieces of ss. The shards pierced her skin, and she let out a piercing scream. "Ah!"


    Charles was soothing Sandy, but the scream made him look up to see Dahlia lying among the shards. "Dahlia!"


    "Mommy!" Sandy cried out, rushing over.


    Charles held her back, "Sandy, be good and stay her." He carried her to the side.


    Charles stepped forward, lifting Dahlia from among the shards.


    Evelyn acted as if she heard nothing of themotion behind her. She just wanted to destroy everything in sight. Bit by bit, she smashed the entire banquet hall to pieces


    en


    After everything, Evelyn stood in ce, gasping for air.


    Suddenly, the sound of police officers came from behind. "Who called the police?"


    Evelyn heard the call and sharply turned around. She saw two officers in uniform quickly entering while Charles held Dahlia in one arm and a phone in the other. Clearly, he was the one who had called the police.


    "Officers, she''s causing trouble and intentionally injuring others." Dahtia, seeing the police, immediately cried out her usations. She was covered in blood, looking quite frightening.


    The officers nced at the scene and Dahlia. They immediately approached Evelyn and handcuffed her.


    Charles looked up, his gaze intense as he looked at her.


    Evelyn coldly returned Charles'' gaze. She knew he was waiting for her to beg him, but, thest person she would ever beg was him.


    "Charles, it hurts so much." Dahlia leaned into Charles'' embrace, crying out in pain.


    Charles'' gaze immediately shifted from Evelyn back to Dahlia. "I''ll take you to the hospital." He picked her up in his arms.


    Outside the hotel, two cars were parked. One was a police car, and the other was a Rolls-Royce Ghost.


    As Charles tenderly ced Dahlia in the passenger seat of his car, Evelyn was stuffed into the police car.


    The two cars went their separate ways.


    ...


    Evelyn was taken into the detention room. It was not her first time at the police station, but it was her first time being arrested. After bringing her in, the officers left.

 Chapter 40

    She sat on the chair, her hands on her knees. She couldn''t stop herself from nervously clenching them together.


    In the quiet space, Evelyn''s senses were heightened, and her body uncontrobly trembled. Panic spread within her.


    No one came to take her statement; they just locked her up. It wasn''t until several hourster that the door finally reopened.


    "Come with me." A male police officer came in and took her from the detention room, locking her in a cell.


    When she entered the cell, Evelyn realized something was amiss. But the door already nged shut. In the dimly lit cell, a chill swept over her. Evelyn couldn''t help but shiver as a chill ran down her spine. She felt as if she were being watched by a venomous snake.


    Just as she was about to turn around, someone suddenly grabbed her hair from behind and yanked it hard.


    Evelyn moaned in pain. "Let go!" She reached back to grab the other person''s hand and kicked fiercely at their shin.


    The person loosened their grip when hit in the shin, allowing Evelyn to break free. She quickly retreated, putting distance between them.


    "What are you doing? This is a detention center!"


    "What are we doing? Of course, we''re here to give you a warm wee. You hurt someone you shouldn''t have without any remorse. Today, we will teach you how to behave."


    Evelyn''s pupils contracted sharply. The person Evelyn shouldn''t have hurt was... Dahlia.


    Therefore, the people avenging Dahlia were... Charles'' associates.


    "Hold her down," the leadermanded.


    Two others approached Evelyn. Evelyn resisted with all her might. But alone, she couldn''t stand against the three of them and was quickly overpowered. Her hair was grabbed, and she was dragged to a corner of


    the cell.


    ton


    In the corner of the cell was a bucket of ice-cold water, into which they forcefully submerged her head. The cold shocked Evelyn, and she struggled fiercely.


    Somehow finding strength, as she


    was pulled from the water, she


    broke free from one of them, grabbed the woman who had submerged her by the hair, and forced her head into the bucket of ice water.


    The bucket overturned with a crash.


    The leader was furious. "Are you all useless?" She eximed angrily.


    The other two quickly restrained Evelyn again, pressing her firmly to the ground.


    The leader approached, raised her hand, and pped Evelyn hard across the face. Evelyn''s head spun from the blows, and blood trickled from the corner of her mouth.


    She bit her lip hard, stifling the cry of pain that reached her lips. In the cold winter night, her hair was soaked, and a bone-deep chill swept over her from head to toe. However, nothing was colder than her heart. Charles would actually go to such lengths for Dahlia.


    The leader didn''t stop there,


    signaling to the other two with a


    look. She hadn''t forgotten their main objective. They immediately understood, pressing Evelyn''s hands to the ground.  en


    Evelyn''s pupils contracted sharply. She suddenly looked up.


    The leader, holding a piece of metal, squatted down.


    Evelyn looked horrified as the woman drove the metal piece down hard into her hand.


    The intention was clear. She wanted to cripple Evelyn''s hand.


    "No!" Evelyn let out a piercing scream.

 Chapter 41

    She struggled desperately but couldn''t break free from the oppression pinning her down. She could only watch helplessly as the sharp object descended. At the critical moment, the door was flung open from the outside. The three people inside clearly didn''t expect anyone toe. They were visibly taken aback.


    Evelyn seized the moment to withdraw her hand. In the instant she pulled her hand back, the leader of the group also reacted, continuing to thrust down without hesitation. The sharp object stabbed into the ground, emitting a grating noise. "What are you doing?" Mr. Rogers saw the situation clearly, turned red and bellowed angrily.


    Before he could rush in, a figure stepped into the cell faster than him. He moved swiftly to them women inside. This man was known as the most cultivated gentleman of the North City but was now losing hisposure.


    His face darkened, and he lifted his leg and kicked the leader fiercely.


    "Ah!" The woman let out a piercing scream of pain and fell heavily to the ground. The other women, already frightened by Brooks'' invisible force, let go of their hold and scrambled back.


    Brooks crouched beside Evelyn, took off his gray coat, and gently draped it over her. He saw the injuries on Evelyn''s face, and the coldness in his eyes deepened.


    Hisrge hand gently supported her arm as he helped her up. While trying to suppress the turmoil in his heart, he tenderly asked, "Are you hurt?"


    Still in shock, Evelyn came back to her senses upon hearing Brooks'' question. "No." She shook her head lightly.


    Hearing she was uninjured, Brooks'' tensed body rxed slightly. "Can you walk on your own?" Brooks asked again.


    Evelyn nodded. Brooks carefully helped her up from the ground and led her out of the cell.


    Mr. Rogers coldly swept a nce at the officers following behind and hurriedly caught up. Brooks spoke sinctly, "Process the bail."


    ...


    It was 8 p.m. when she left the police station and got into Brooks'' car.


    "Turn the heater up to the max." As soon as they got in the car, Brooks instructed the driver. The heater quickly warmed up, and Evelyn finally felt some warmth in her hands and feet.


    ????


    Brooks drove her all the way back to Maple Garden. After escorting her to the door, he handed her some ointments for her bruises and inmmation that he had bought on the way. "You should get some rest."


    "Thank you, Mr. Brooks."


    Evelyn entered her house and took a hot bath. Standing in front of the mirror, she examined her swollen face.


    She had pped Dahlia a few times, and Charles had people return the favor twofold.


    Gripping the ointment tightly, she let out a breath and started to apply it to herself.


    After applying the ointment, she


    prepared to go to sleep. She was et


    half-asleep when her phone rang. She opened her eyes to see an unfamiliar number.


    She had no intention of answering


    and was just about to hang up whet


    a know no


    came from the


    "Delivery." verbet


    Hearing it was a delivery, Evelyn didn''t get up to open the door. She lived alone and had to be cautious.


    She answered the phone, "You''ve got the wrong address. I didn''t order any delivery."


    "It''s a meal ordered for you by a Mr. Brooks."

 Chapter 42

    Mr. Brooks?


    Evelyn rose to answer the door and collect her delivery.


    Surprisingly, the food that was delivered was exactly to her taste. A wave of warmth crossed Evelyn''s otherwise cold heart.


    She took out her phone, intending to thank Brooks. However, upon unlocking her phone, she remembered they hadn''t exchanged numbers. As she was about to put her phone down, she noticed the note on the delivery order. At the bottom was a phone number with a message: [Call me anytime if you need anything.]


    Evelyn didn''t make the call. Instead, she texted him: [Mr. Brooks, I received the delivery. Thank you.]


    Brooks replied sinctly: [No problem.]


    Evelyn didn''t want to impose further, so she put down her phone and started on her delivery.


    Downstairs, Brooks sat in his car, saving the number.


    ...


    At the Hospital, Dahlia was dressed warmly. Only her legs were exposed, showing several cuts.


    Though the cuts were not life-threatening, they were filled with shards of ss and took hours to clean properly.


    Shey on the hospital bed, pale, thinking of the phone call Charles had made outside, her hands clenched beneath the nket.


    Evelyn had only been detained a few hours, and Charles had already called his assistant, Aiden, to go to the station.


    The door creaked open, making Dahlia instantly look pitiful. Charles walked out after putting Sandy to sleep.


    Dahlia started to speak up for Evelyn with teary eyes. "Charles, it''s just a small injury. I''m fine. Evelyn has been detained for a few hours now, so perhaps we can let this go."


    en


    swro


    "I was also too emotional at the moment, which is why I called the police." Charles'' tone softened considerably as he looked at Dahlia. "I''ll handle this. You rest well."


    His phone rang just as he finished speaking. It was Aiden calling.


    Charles immediately went to the balcony to answer, asking in a deep voice, "Has she calmed down? Hand her the phone."


    Aiden was standing at the police station entrance, having just exined Charlie''s intention not to press charges.


    But they were a step toote.


    "Mr. Jenkins, Ms. Evelyn has already been bailed out by Mr. Brooks."


    Brooks'' name made Charles'' expression darken. A storm was brewing in his eyes.


    ...


    Evelyn had been drenched in cold


    water while in custody. Although Brooks had someone bring a hairdryer to dry her hair quickly, her body''s resistance was too weak recently, and she caught a chill.


    Not long after lying down to sleep, she developed a high fever. Her


    body felt as though it were in an oven. Sweat soaked her temple''s, her brows were furrowed, and her pretty face was flushed red.


    Evelyn was in difort. Her lips parted slightly.


    "Uh..." Pained moans continuously escaped her lips.


    Arge hand covered her forehead, its coolness a relief to Evelyn at that moment. She instinctively wanted to get closer.


    Her forehead was pressed tightly against Charles'' palm. The hot breath she exhaled was scorching on his palm. It felt ticklish like a feather brushing over his heart.

 Chapter 43

    Charles'' handsome features softened as he gazed down at Evelyn.


    In this moment, she had shed the prickly armor she had worn during the day and became delicate and tender. It was like she was nuzzling into the dry palm of his hand, seekingfort. identally, she brushed against a wound on his cheek.


    "Ah-" Evelyn winced in pain, shrinking back.


    The moment his palm felt empty, Charles reached out to turn on the bedsidemp with a click.


    Light flooded the room, casting everything in brightness. The sight of Evelyn''s swollen cheeks caught in Charles'' view. The imprint of a p was stark against her skin, the sight darkening his eyes with a sudden chill. He rose to his feet, rummaging through the first aid kit under the coffee table for fever medicine while dialing Aiden.


    "Mr. Jenkins, what can I do for you?"


    "Find out who messed with Evelyn in the detention center. Make sure they''re taken care of properly. The payback must be a hundredfold." Charles'' voice was icy, carrying a bone-chilling coldness.


    "Acknowledged." Hanging up, Charles grabbed the fever medicine and returned to the room.


    ...


    In her feverish haze, Evelyn felt someone lifting her up, a deep, maic voice coaxing near her ear, "Open your mouth. Take the medicine."


    At the mention of medicine, Evelyn instinctively resisted. She detested taking medicine.


    At the age of eight, her headmaster persuaded her into taking a pill. After that, she lost consciousness.


    When she awoke, it was pain that brought her back. She found herself on the headmaster''s bed, a corpulent man with a bare chest standing by the bed holding a spiked whip, fresh blood clinging to it-her blood.


    The whip had torn her flesh apart. In his other hand, he held a lit candle. He''s staring at her like a demon.


    As she watched in horror, hot wax dripped onto her broken skin, causing excruciating pain. Her cries of pain were drowned by despair as the man extended his demonic hand towards her after the beating


    "No!"


    Evelyn clenched her teeth, refusing to open her mouth.


    Charles gazed down at Evelyn with dark eyes. He took the medicine into his own mouth, lifted her chin, and kissed her.


    In her dazed state, Evelyn was easily lured by Charles into parting her teeth, allowing the medicine to be delivered.


    Realizing what she had ingested, Evelyn frowned, trying to push the medicine out with her tongue.


    Charles caught the pill, deepened the kiss, and forced her to swallow it along with his breath.


    "Mmm..." Evelyn''s throat emitted a protesting whimper. Her protests were muffled, and they were irresistibly alluring like a cat''s meow. Charles'' Adam''s apple bobbed as his hand ran through her hair, intensifying the kiss.


    It wasn''t until he had practically smothered her that he finally released her swollen lips. His thumb gently caressed her lips, which were swollen from his kisses. Desire


    swirled in his eyes.


    His fingers moved to the neckline of her pajamas, undoing them one by one. Without proceeding further, he simply changed her out of her damp pajamas. Evelyn hummed infort,pletely unaware.


    ...


    As the night deepened, the fever


    medicine took effect, and Evelyn''s fever soon subsided. In her half-awake state, she felt a cool touch on her cheeks, prompting her


    to slowly open her eyes.


    Charles'' defined face came into view. He sat by the bed, holding a tube of ointment, gently applying it to her cheeks.


    The scent of the ointment was familiar.


    Thest time, she had pushed him away, resulting in her injuring her hand and ending up in the hospital. The next day, she woke up in the hospital with the same scent.

 Chapter 44

    Charles noticed Evelyn opened her eyes. He spoke in a deep voice, "Is it so hard to ask for my forgiveness?"


    Just a little humility, and she wouldn''t have to be taken away by the police.


    Evelyn''s eyes turned cold. Her cheeks, cleaned and medicated after a bath, weren''t as painful anymore, but what she experienced in the detention center was still vividly etched in her mind.


    Did he mean that because she hadn''t begged him, everything she suffered through in the detention center was what she deserved?


    Evelyn raised her hand and fiercely swatted Charles'' hand away. Her face turned cold. "Charles, I would ask anyone but you. Stop pretending to care. I don''t need it."


    "Evelyn, you are so ungrateful!" Charles'' expression suddenly darkened.


    "Oh, I''m ungrateful?" Evelyn let out a coldugh, but her eyes remained unamused. "Charles, you had someone p me then came here to take care of me, and I''m supposed to be grateful to you?" "The detention center wasn''t my doing."


    For the first time, Charles offered an exnation to Evelyn.


    Evelyn paused for a moment upon hearing this, but in an instant, the corners of her lips turned into a grimace.


    Charles said it wasn''t him and she believed him. For her, Charles had no reason to lie because it wasn''t necessary. But...


    "Does it make a difference?" Evelyn asked mockingly in return.


    "Evelyn, what are you trying to say?" Charles'' expression turned visibly colder. His gaze on Evelyn looked threatening.


    Evelyn met his gaze without flinching, "What am I trying to say? If not you, then who else but Dahlia?" Evelyn ignored Charles'' fury, unflinching.


    "Where''s the evidence?"


    Thest bit of warmth in Charles'' eyes vanished as if Evelyn had exhausted his already limited patience.


    He slowly stood up, towering beside the bed, looking down at Evelyn. He said with a chilling voice, "Evelyn, let''s be dear. If you hadn''t lost your temper, ruined Sandy''s celebration party, and injured Dahlia, Dahtia wouldn''t have chosen to call the police."


    Mentioning the party made Evelyn''s chest heave olently. She had


    already given up on Charles and was utterly disappointed. Still, the way he unequivocally sided with Dahlia without distinguishing right from wrong made Evelyn''s eyes redden with anger.


    Her heart felt as if it was being squeezed tightly, the pain making her breathing painful. Her eyes were bloodshot as she red at Charles, gritting her teeth. "Why did I ruin Sandy''s party? It''s because Dahlia is heartless. She knew very well Charlie had already passed away.


    "Evelyn!" Charles interrupted her sharply, his gaze ice-cold. He suddenly reached out, grabbed her arm, and pulled her up from the bed.


    Still weak from her recent fever, Evelyn couldn''t struggle against Charles'' sudden aggression. Charles dragged her like a broken doll and stumbled along to the door of a spare room.


    Charles kicked the door open, pulling Evelyn in. He steadied her body with one hand and grasped the back of her neck with the other, turning her head to force her to look around the side room as his gaze did.


    Then, he slowly lowered his head, his lips near her ear, his voice cold as he questioned her, "That day, you brought me here, telling me Charlie''s ashes were in this room. Evelyn, where are the ashes, huh?" Evelyn''s throat was hoarse. She turned her head, her eyes red, and yelled at Charles, "Charlie was buried today..."

 Chapter 45

    "Buried? Evelyn, do you have to curse your daughter like that every day?" Charles'' face was as cold as frost, and his voice as chilling as if it came from hell itself.


    Evelyn''s body swayed, on the verge of copse, as she stared at her daughter''s photo on the bedside table with eyes red from crying.


    The direction her daughter was looking in was exactly where Charles stood. Since Charlie was born, no matter how coldly Charles treated her, she still deeply loved her father.


    In this moment, Evelyn saw her daughter''s gaze and felt as if she could see the hope in her daughter''s eyes.


    Charlie hoped her father would apany her on herst journey, allowing her to be reborn without any regrets.


    Evelyn reached out to grasp Charles'' arm and turned to look at him. For Charlie''s sake, she spoke again, "Charles, I''m telling the truth. Charlie really..."


    Charles lowered his gaze to meet Evelyn''s tear-soaked eyes. The pain in them was so genuine it reminded him of the day of the designpetition awards. He had been deceived by such eyes then. "Evelyn, you''re beyond help!"


    Charles jerked his arm away from her, his movement so forceful that the pendant he always carried was flung out, striking Evelyn''s face.


    She instinctively turned her head to dodge, but it still struck her near the eye. "Ouch," she gasped in pain.


    The pendantnded on the bed, and when Evelyn saw it, she paused for a moment as something shed through her mind. She instinctively reached out to pick it up to see it clearly.


    "Don''t touch it." Charles snatched it back. He carefully and dearly put it back on, giving her a cold nce before turning and leaving without looking back.


    ...


    After hearing the door close, Evelyn''s body rxed, and shey down on Charlie''s bed, staring at Charlie''s photo on the bedside table as her eyes reddened even more. Tears welled up, and she began to sob silently. Having just recovered from a fever, she soon fell into a drowsy sleep.


    She had a dream.


    In the dream, she saw the pendant that had fallen from Charles'' neck again. The pendant was not on Charles. Instead, it was worn by a little girl about five or six years old.


    en


    The girl was looking down, tears dropping down steadily. A boy, about ten, stood in front of her.


    The boy took off a pendant from his neck, fumbling to ce it in the girl''s palm. "Debbie, wait for me."


    The girl mimicked the boy, taking off the pendant she wore around her neck and letting the boy kneel down. He knelt, his action revealing the little girl''s face.


    Evelyn suddenly opened her eyes. Feeling unwell, she was sweating profusely. Her nightgown was soaked through.


    She sat up in bed, changed into a dry nightgown, andy back down.


    The face of the girl from her dream appeared in her mind again. That face looked so much like her when she was a child, but she had no memory of this.


    Exhausted Evelyn didn''t think much


    further. Eager for a good night''s sleep, She reached for the mtonin on her bedside, swallowed it and soon fell into a deep sleep.


    ...


    At the Hospital, Dahlia hadpleted her discharge procedures and was waiting for Charles to pick her up.


    The weather was nice, and she was enjoying the warm sunshine in the hospital garden.


    "Ms. Dahlia." Suddenly, a sleazy voice floated to her from behind.


    Dahlia shuddered violently.

 Chapter 46

    She suddenly turned around and red at the neer. Her voice sounded low and angry, "What are you doing here?"


    "I came looking for you, of course, Dahlia."


    ""What for?"


    "Heh, I''ve been a bit unluckytely... How about you give me another million to spend?"


    "You''re out of your mind. We''re square. I owe you nothing more!"


    Dahlia watched John with disdain. He was absolutely desperate. She didn''t want anything to do with this gambling addict. With a grave expression, she picked up her purse and turned to leave.


    Just as she took a step, the man blocked her path again. "Don''t y with me. Did you think I''de unprepared?"


    "I''ll have you know. I''ve looked into it. That day, you came to me, saying your daughter was in critical condition and needed an immediate kidney transnt. I took pity on you. My wife decided to change the donee of her kidney on the spot, and it went to your daughter. But then, Ms. Evelyn''s daughter died on the operating table."


    "You don''t have to sugarcoat it. If it wasn''t for the million I gave you, you wouldn''t have chosen to donate the kidney to my daughter. I gave you money, and you sold me a kidney. It was a deal we both agreed on.


    "John, don''t try to use this against me. Even if you go public, I''m not afraid. Evelyn daughter had a life worth saving, so did mine. I''m not a saint. I''m a mother. Faced with a choice, of course, I''d choose my daughter''s life over anything else. What''s wrong with that?" Dahlia''s words were firm as she faced John.


    Charlie''s death was her own fault. She should have never existed.


    Five years ago, Dahlia had meticulously nned that night, hoping to use their anniversary to seduce Charles into amitment through pregnancy. Unexpectedly, an ident led Evelyn into Charles'' room, and she ended up pregnant, securing her position through the child.


    With a child in the picture, it didn''t


    matter if Charles didn''t love Evelyn. He stilk took responsibility. Evelyn took the ce that should have been hers.


    BUMS


    Charles might not have loved Evelyn, but he cared for Charlie, their child.


    Dahlia knew Rosa was in aa and immediately returned to the country. Her return was to reim everything that belonged to her.


    With Charlie in the picture, Evelyn


    would always have a bond with Charles


    and they could never f


    separate. Charlie would be better off dead.


    "Tsk, tsk, you almost had me fooled!" John clicked his tongue. "If I hadn''t found out by ident that my wife''s kidney was never a match for your daughter..."


    "Shut up!" Dahlia''s face changed instantly. Her expression was fierce as she cut off John''s words.


    How could John possibly know about this?


    Dahlia''s mind was in turmoil. Her gaze nervously flicked towards the hospital entrance.


    Charles had said he''d be only a few minutes away. He should almost be here.


    She absolutely couldn''t let Charles find out that she had intentionally stolen Charlie''s kidney source, leading to Charlie''s death. Dahlia was fearful of what was toe. Charles'' tall, imposing figure appeared in her line of sight and she was truly panicked now. "Scared, are you?" Sensing her distress, John''sughter grew more maniacal.


    "All you want is money, right? I''ll give it to you! This afternoon, I''ll transfer the money to your ount. Now, leave immediately."

 Chapter 47

    Dahlia forced herself to stay calm.


    Since returning to her home country, Charles had been providing a monthly allowance of a million dors to support her and her daughter.


    When Sandy fell ill, Charles took it upon himself to cover all the medical expenses and other misceneous costs. A million dors wasn''t hard for her to handle.


    "You better not y any tricks!" John gave Dahlia a warning look.


    Before Charles arrived, he quickly slipped around the corner and left.


    "Having trouble?" Charles nced in the direction where John had disappeared.


    "He was just asking for directions," Dahlia replied coolly.


    Charles didn''t inquire further, and they left the hospital together.


    ...


    At Maple Garden, Evelyn slept through the entire day. By the time she woke up, it was already evening.


    Having not had any food all day, she was famished.


    She got out of bed, changed her clothes, and walked downstairs to a diner across the street, where she ordered arge bowl of chicken noodle soup. She ate slowly, spoonful by spoonful, and gradually felt warmth returning to her body. After paying, Evelyn walked back home. By the time she reached herplex, it waspletely dark.


    Maple Garden was well-situated, but theplex was old and run-down. A few of the streetlights still worked, and the property management did nothing to fix the others.


    As Evelyn passed a dark stretch of road, she heard footsteps behind her. Having been dragged into an alley once before, she was on high alert.


    She quietly slipped her hand into her bag and gripped the pocketknife she carried for self-defense, then suddenly turned around.


    There was no one there.


    Evelyn exhaled a breath of relief but didn''t let down her guard. She turned back around and continued walking.


    Just as she started walking, the footsteps appeared again.


    Evelyn''s scalp tingled. Without looking back, she quickened her pace. As she sped up, the footsteps behind her did the same.


    Evelyn''s heart raced. She sprinted to her building as fast as she could, swiped her ess card and hurried inside.


    It wasn''t until she shut the door behind her that she dared to look back. Through the ss door, there was no sign of anyone following her. Was it just her imagination running wild?


    Evelyn didn''t linger. She quickened her pace towards the elevator. Once inside, she finally breathed a sigh of relief as the elevator doors closed. The old elevator moved slowly. After a while, it reached her floor.


    Evelyn stepped out and walked


    quickly to her door, key in hand. Just as she was about to close the door behind her, arge hand pped against it, preventing it from@losing.  en


    A stranger''s face loomed before Evelyn''s eyes.


    "Ah!" Evelyn screamed in fright. She pushed against the door with all her might, trying to close it.


    The man was big and strong. With a powerful shove, Evelyn was pushed back several steps. The man brazenly entered, mming the door shut behind him.


    Evelyn regained her bnce and


    didn''t think twice before she pulled a pocket knife from her bag and faced the intruder. Her expression was defensive, and her voice stern. "Get out! Or you will regret this!


    The man saw her reaction and immediately leaned against the door with his hands up, a cheeky grin on his face. Ms. Evelyn, don''t be nervous. I mean no harm. I''m here


    today to discuss a deal with you that I think you''ll find very interesting, concerning your daughter''s death."

 Chapter 48

    Hearing about Charlie''s death, Evelyn''s pupils shrank sharply. Her eyes reddened with emotion. Her hand, clutching a kitchen knife, tightened nervously a bit more. She struggled to suppress the emotions welling up inside her, trying not to lose control. "What deal?"


    "Give me a million dors, and I''ll tell you who deliberately took your daughter''s organ transnt, leading her to die on the operating table."


    "Alright." Evelyn agreed without hesitation..


    Then, unable to wait, she asked, "Who is it?"


    "Ms. Evelyn, you''re trying to get something for nothing here!"


    The man scoffed, pulling out a bank card and handing it to Evelyn. "Once the million is in the ount, I''ll tell you immediately."


    Evelyn bit her lip. "I don''t have a million dors right now, but if you tell me who it is, I promise I''ll get the money to you."


    "Who believes in promises these days." John sneered and turned to leave.


    Evelyn grabbed him. "Give me some time. I''ll get it for you."


    "You have two days. I won''t wait any longer!"


    John took Evelyn''s phone and left.


    ...


    Two days flew by in an instant.


    Evelyn tried everything, but a million dors was an astronomical figure for her current situation. When all else failed, she remembered what Brooks had told her that night to call him anytime if she needed help.


    Hesitating for a moment, Evelyn still scrolled through her message history to dial Brooks'' number.


    After a long wait, the call


    automatically ended - Brooks didn''t answer. Evelyn wasn''t sure if he hadn''t heard her call or simply didn''t want to answer. She gripped her phone tightly, waiting a while donger for Brooks to call back.


    When Evelyn couldn''t wait any longer, she braved the rain and headed for Robinson Group, where she found out that Brooks was attending a banquet at the Hillwood Grand Hotel today. Evelyn went home, dug out an old evening gown, changed, and then hurried out, taking a taxi to the Hillwood Grand Hotel.


    The rain grew heavier. Evelyn, holding an umbre in one hand and lifting her dress with the other, walked inside but was stopped at the entrance. "Miss, please show your invitation."


    "Please, can you make an exception and let me in? I just need to talk to someone for a moment, and then I''ll leave right away." Evelyn pleaded softly with the man, paying no heed to the nces around her.


    "I''m sorry, miss, but I really can''t let you in without an invitation."


    Evelyn knew he wasn''t being difficult on purpose. It was his job.


    She was about to try convincing him further. Suddenly, the waiter greeted someone respectfully behind her. "Mr. Jenkins."


    Evelyn instinctively turned around, only to see Dahlia wearing a brand-new haute couture dress, arriving in the rain with Charles. Aiden was half a step behind, holding an umbre for them. Charles saw Evelyn and frowned. "What are you doing here?"


    Realizing that Charles knew Evelyn, the waiter immediately became anxious and said to Charles, "Mr. Jenkins, I apologize. I didn''t know thisdy was your friend. I''ll let her in right away." "No." Charles interrupted in a deep voice, and as he walked in, he coldly left instructions, "I don''t want to see her inside."

 Chapter 49

    "Yes!"


    Dahlia remained silent throughout. She leaned against Charles, and before entering, she turned back to nce at Evelyn, a small smile ying on the corners of her lips.


    Evelyn clenched her fists. With just one word from Charles, she was shut out.


    Evelyn found a spot directly opposite the door, stood by a pir, and waited for Brooks toe out.


    The rain was pouring heavily, and the umbre couldn''t cover herpletely. A lot of rain showered on her back, quickly soaking her. She shivered from the cold, looking miserable and pitiful. Yet she still stood there determinedly, her gaze fixed steadfastly on the hotel''s entrance.


    Aiden approached with an umbre. "Ms. Evelyn, Mr. Jenkins asked me to take you home."


    "I won''t leave." Evelyn coldly refused.


    After speaking, she ignored Aiden and quietly waited for Brooks.


    Aiden couldn''t persuade Evelyn, and called Charles. "Mr. Jenkins, Ms. Evelyn refuses to leave."


    "Let her be." Charles'' tone was extremely cold as he hung up.


    Aiden left.


    ...


    On a cold, rainy winter night, the chilly wind was piercing.


    Even though Evelyn was wearing a coat, her legs were bare under the dress, leaving her shivering. Her entire body was stiff from the cold.


    Time passed. She didn''t know how long she waited. Finally, Brooks'' figure appeared in her line of sight.


    Evelyn''s eyes brightened, and she hurriedly walked towards him. "Mr. Brooks..."


    Her legs were numb from the cold, and just as she reached Brooks, she stumbled, her body lurching forward unsteadily.


    Brooks immediately extended his arms. "Careful."


    Evelyn fell into his embrace and was caught fully in his arms.


    "Mr. Brooks, I''m sorry." After steadying herself, Evelyn, with an embarrassed face, stepped back from his embrace.


    "Get in the car first."


    Brooks watched Evelyn, shivering from the cold, and his face darkened. He then gently guided her into the car with a supportive hand. "Mr. Brooks..." Once in the car, Evelyn couldn''t wait to speak.


    "Have some hot tea first to warm up." Brooks poured her a cup of hot tea and handed it to her.


    "Thank you."


    Evelyn took it and tried a sip. The temperature was just right. She drank several sips in session. Her body was slowly warming up. After calming down, Evelyn found it much more difficult to speak. Her hands, holding the cup, clenched tightly.


    "Is there something you need help with?" Brooks took the initiative to speak.


    "Yes! Mr. Brooks, could you lend me


    eight


    thousand? I can write


    you an§éOU. I know it''s


    presumptuous to suddenly ask you


    for money..."


    "Okay." Brooks interrupted Evelyn''s somewhat incoherent words due to her eagerness and embarrassment with a gentle voice. "What?" Evelyn was taken aback.


    Brooks did not say much and


    directly took out a checkbook. He pulled out a pen from his pocket. It was then Evelyn realized Brooks was actually willing to lend her the money.  en


    She immediately stopped Brooks. "Mr. Brooks, could you transfer it to my ount?"


    She exined awkwardly, "I''m in urgent need, and at this time, I can''t cash a check."


    "Okay." Brooks put away the checkbook and gave his assistant a look.


    The assistant asked for Evelyn''s ount details and quickly transferred the money into her ount.


    After receiving the money, Evelyn immediately called John. They arranged a meeting ce, and she pushed open the car door, ready to go out.


    "I''ll take you." Brooks spoke up, stopping Evelyn.


    "Mr. Brooks..."


    The assistant wanted to remind him that he had an important engagementter, but Brooks quelled him with a look.


    "Will it dy you?"


    "No, it''s fine." Brooks'' voice was gentle.


    "Thank you." Evelyn didn''t refuse any further.


    The rain was too heavy, and it was difficult to hail a cab at this ce and time.


    ...


    The car sped through the rainy night.


    194


    Evelyn looked out at the fleeting street scenes through the window and sped her clothes tightly struggling to keep her emotions in check.


    Forty minutester, the Maybach stopped at the arranged ce.

 Chapter 50

    Evelyn rushed out of the car in a hurry, with Brooks following close behind. He took an umbre from his assistant and opened it for her, creating a small oasis of clear sky just for her. Seconds ticked by relentlessly.


    The appointed time hade and gone, yet the man they were waiting for was nowhere to be seen.


    Growing increasingly anxious, Evelyn couldn''t wait any longer and pulled out her phone to call John. Just as the call connected, a ringtone sounded from the alley behind them.


    Initially, Evelyn didn''t pay it much mind. But when her third call attempt was automatically cut off, coinciding with the cessation of the ringtone from the alley, she sensed something was amiss.


    She exchanged a look with Brooks, who had also sensed the anomaly, and they both headed into the alley.


    Just a few steps in, they spotted a man lying motionless in a pool of blood not far away. Blood was flowing from his body, staining the ground beneath their feet.


    At first sight, Evelyn was shocked and instinctively stepped back, but Brooks was right there to steady her with his hand.


    Swallowing hard, Evelyn, with trembling hands, tried calling John''s phone again. The ringtone emanated from the man lying on the ground.


    Evelyn''s face turned ashen. She stumbled forward, falling to her knees beside the man. Her hands shook as she tried to lift him from the ground. Her voice was breaking as she cried, "You can''t die! Get up! You haven''t told me who it is!" Brooks couldn''t catch her in time and quickly moved to her side. Holding the umbre with one hand, he knelt beside Evelyn and helped lift the man off the ground, not minding the mud staining his expensive clothes.


    Brooks used one hand to prop up John, who weighed over 200 pounds. He instructed his assistant, who had just called 911. "Press on his wound."


    "Right away."


    The assistant immediately knelt down, pressing on the man''s wound, which was still profusely bleeding.


    John''s eyes were half-closed. He had lost a lot of blood, hisplexion was as pale as paper. He was barely breathing in more than out.


    Evelyn clutched John''s arm. "I have the money. I''ll transfer it to you right now. Please, tell me who it is?"


    Her hands trembled as she input his bank ount number.


    John stared at Evelyn, his lips parting as if he wanted to say something. But just as he opened his mouth, a gush of fresh blood spurted from his lips. He passed out once again.


    ...


    Less than ten minutester, the ambnce arrived. John was rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment.


    Evelyn followed to the hospital. Standing outside the emergency room, she stared at the glowing red light her body shaking


    uncontrobly.


    She kept praying silently, hoping John would be alright.


    Brooks was talking to the police on the side. The police had already gathered that the man''s name was John.


    He was apulsive gambler. The suspect who had injured him was already in custody and also a gambler.


    The two had a deep-seated grudge over gambling. This time, their grievances had red up again. The suspect had drunk a bit too much and impulsively stabbed John in a moment of heightened emotions.


    After briefing them, the police left, and Brooks returned to Evelyn''s side.


    "Go change your clothes. Be careful not to catch a cold." Brooks handed


    Eve that his ass."


    just bothes that his ad


    "I''ll stay here


    His words preempted any refusal from Evelyn. She took the bag and went to the restroom to change into clean clothes. When she came out, Brooks handed her a cup of hot ginger tea. "To ward off the chill."


    "Thank you."


    Evelyn''s voice was hoarse with gratitude. As she held the ginger tea, her gaze never left the firmly closed door in front of her.


    ...


    Evelyn didn''t know how long she had been standing there, but eventually, the light that had been on all this time went out. The door opened from the inside.


    With her eyes red from worry, Evelyn immediately rushed forward, grabbing the doctor''s arm and asking anxiously, "Doctor, how is he?"

 Chapter 51

    "I''m sorry, we''ve done everything we could."


    Evelyn felt as if struck by lightning. Her legs weakened, and her body wobbled unsteadily. Brooks supported her, hisrge hand resting on her shoulder, silently offering her support. "Are you Ms. Evelyn?" The doctor spoke again.


    "Yes..."


    Her voice was faint as if all her vitality had been drained from her.


    The truth was right before her eyes, yet the person was gone.


    "He wanted to see you."


    The doctor''s words made Evelyn suddenly lift her head, and after making sure she hadn''t misheard, she stumbled inside.


    The medical staff had already left the room, leaving her alone with John.


    Evelyn rushed to John''s side and spoke urgently, "John, I''ve already transferred the moneyto your ount. Tell me, who is it?"


    John''s gaze was already fading, his lips parting as he struggled to speak. "It''s... it''s your rival... Dahlia..."


    Evelyn heard the name Dahlia, and a shiver ran through her body. Her entire being turned cold.


    John knew he didn''t have much time left. He took several breaths, managing to continue, "Your daughter was rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment. The hospital called my wife to ask her toe... At that moment, Dahlia stopped her... "She said her daughter was also a match for my wife and asked her to donate her kidney to her daughter, iming her daughter''s life depended on my wife''s kidney... She offered a million, and I agreed...


    "It was only a few days ago that I found out my wife''s kidney wasn''t a match for her daughter at all...


    "Dahlia didn''t want to save her own daughter... She wanted your daughter''s life!"


    John started coughing violently. He grabbed Evelyn''s arm with his other hand, his eyes wide. "This woman is too evil... She not only intentionally took your daughter''s life... but she alse silenced me..."


    He had only ckmailed her for some money, yet she took his life in return.


    "Don''t... let her go..." With hisst word, his hand slipped from her arm. He died with his eyes open.


    Evelyn stood still, her eyes bloodshot, her body feeling as if it was submerged in a cold pond.


    She bit her lip hard, her whole body trembling uncontrobly due to intense emotions.


    John''s words echoed in her mind. Charlie''s little face appeared before Evelyn''s eyes.


    Her daughter was so good and understanding. If it wasn''t for Dahlia maliciously taking the kidney,


    rlie


    could have lived. Her daughter could


    have been alive and well.


    Dahlia!


    A furious hatred erupted from the depths of Evelyn''s eyes. At that moment, she wished she could grind Dahlia to dust.


    Evelyn pulled open the door and rushed out. She ran wildly in the rain.


    Central Hospital was less than two


    miles from Dahlia''s residence in Greenrose, a location Charles had


    specifically chosen for Sandy''s convenience.


    In less than ten minutes, Evelyn stood at the entrance of Greenrose.


    Her entire body was soaked, and her eyes were blood-red. She looked like a vengeful ghost,ing to im Dahlia''s life!


    But just a step away, Evelyn suddenly stopped.

 Chapter 52

    Standing outside the gate, she peered through the iron bars at the scene unfolding within.


    Inside, Charles and Dahlia had just returned from a g. Amidst the rain, Charles sheltered Dahlia as they reached the doorway.


    Dahlia stepped out from Charles'' embrace, tiptoeing to brush the raindrops from his shoulders. Charles gazed down at her with a tender look, his eyes full of indulgence.


    Watching this scene felt like a bucket of ice water was dumped over Evelyn''s head, chilling her to the bone.


    Memories surged forward.


    Charles always showed unfounded favoritism and trust towards Dahlia. Even now, he wouldn''t have believed her if she hadid the evidence before Charles. Not to mention, the only witness was gone.


    If she used Dahlia of causing Charlie''s death, Charles would only think she was insane.


    Evelynughed bitterly, her eyes filled with sadness. She was powerless against Dahlia at this moment.


    The rain intensified. Evelyn turned away with difficulty, her departure marked by despair.


    The journey back was torturous. Each step felt as though she was treading on sharp des. The pain was piercing to the bone.


    Charlie...


    Dahlia killed her daughter, but she''spletely unable to retaliate against the murderer. Evelyn''s overwhelmed with guilt and self-reproach.


    Tears blurred her vision. With each step growing heavier, the world around her became increasingly faint.


    Evelyn''s strength failed, and she copsed in the rain.


    Across the street, a ck Maybach, having just arrived, braked urgently at the curb. The car door swung open, and Brooks, disregarding the need for an umbre, crossed the street briskly towards Evelyn. The driver hurriedly followed with an umbre.


    Brooks reached Evelyn in a few strides, refusing the driver''s offer to carry her, and lifted her from the ground himself, heading towards his car.


    ...


    At the hospital, Evelyn slowly opened her eyes, meeting a pair of concerned ones.


    It was Brooks.


    He said nothing, yet his eyes conveyed everything.


    Evelyn looked at Brooks and managed a weak smile. Her voice was hoarse as she sincerely thanked him, "Mr. Brooks, thank you."


    Brooks gazed back at her, his tone gentle. "No need to be so formal with me."


    Evelyn didn''t respond. She sat up in bed, reaching for her phone on the nightstand.


    John was implicated in extortion. After the police resolved the case and returned the money, Evelyn transferred eight hundred thousand back to Brooks, then got out of bed and bowed deeply to him. "Mr. Brooks, I''m very grateful for your help, time and again."


    Brooks looked at Evelyn, bowing before him. His raised hand fell back to his side. His voice returned to its usual coolness as he responded softly, "No problem."


    Then, he turned and left.


    Only after the door to the hospital room closed did Evelyn slowly stand. She stared in the direction Brooks had left in.


    He was someone she could not afford to have.


    Evelyn


    o Changed clothes and went to


    her discharge everyth


    only to be informed that


    had been taken care of.


    She left the hospital.


    After the rainstorm, the sky cleared. Sunlight fell upon her.


    Evelyn tilted her head slightly, basking in the sunlight. The warm rays touched her skin, but she felt no warmth.


    Her fists clenched tightly as she thought, ''Charlie, I will not let Dahlia go unpunished for harming you.''

 Chapter 53

    Evelyn had just hailed a cab when she received a call from Charles'' aunt, Carmen.


    "There''s a family dinner at the Jenkins'' tonight. Come over and help."


    Then, she hung up.


    It was amand. To Carmen, Evelyn was nothing more than a servant of the Jenkins family.


    Rosa had dered Evelyn a daughter of the Jenkis family after her stepmother passed away, but without Rosa''s presence, no one in the Jenkins family acknowledged it.


    After Rosa had gone abroad for treatment, Evelyn had lived with Charles for five years, and they shared a daughter, but Charles refused to acknowledge their rtionship. The rest of the Jenkins family didn''t acknowledge the rtionship and their daughter, Charlie. Evelyn was just a servant to be called and dismissed at will.


    She had just heard Dahlia''s voice on the phone. A cold smile yed on Evelyn''s lips.


    Momentster, she got into a cab and told the driver, "To the Jenkins estate."


    An hourter, the cab stopped outside the private drive of the Jenkins estate.


    To avoid outside disturbances, the Jenkins had bought all the surroundingnd, preventing taxis from entering.


    Evelyn got out and walked for half an hour before reaching the Jenkins estate.


    Upon entering, she saw Dahlia and her daughter beingvished with attention from Carmen and her daughter Sena, who were sitting on either side of them. Charles was sitting across from them, his gaze tenderly on Dahlia and her daughter.


    As soon as Evelyn appeared, Dahlia and herpanions saw her. With a gentle smile, Dahlia spoke, "You are really too good to Sandy. This could spoil her." After Dahlia finished, she cast a meaningful nce at Evelyn.


    "Sandy is Charles'' daughter; there''s no such thing as spoiling her too much," Carmen spoke indulgently.


    "Exactly, Sandy is my darling niece. If not her, then who should we spoil?" Sena hugged Sandy, affectionately kissing her on the cheek.


    A cold light shed in Evelyn''s eyes. They were doing this on purpose.


    Charlie was also Charles'' daughter, but she was mistreated and hurt every time she came to the Jenkins estate. At such a young age, Charlie had learned to tread carefully.


    Evelyn suppressed her pain and stepped forward.


    Dahlia, pretending to see Evelyn only now, greeted her warmly like a hostess, "Evelyn, you''re here. Why did youe alone? Where''s Charlie?"


    Dahlia was smiling, but Evelyn knew that smile was full of poison.


    Dahlia was deliberately provoking her. She knew that mentioning Charlie would make Evelyn lose control.


    Charles also turned his head, casting his warning gaze on her. He was telling her not to make a scene here.


    "Dahlia, the Jenkins household is not just any..." Sena, frowning, cut in before Evelyn could speak.


    She meant to say that not just anyone coulde here, but she stopped midway, feeling a cold gaze on her from Charles.


    Sena immediately remembered the


    p she received from him in the hospital after she had called Charlie a little bitch. It had been a long time, but that look made her face feel pain again.  en


    Sena immediately shut her mouth.


    Evelyn avoided the topic of Charlie. She calmly walked over, and under Dahlia''s scrutinizing gaze, sat down close to Charles. Then, lifting her head, she gave Dahlia a slight smirk.


    Dahlia''s eyes darkened, and she gritted her teeth in secret.


    Evelyn had been insisting that she had broken up with Charles, hadn''t she? What was she doing?


    Charles, too, was clearly taken aback, giving Evelyn a sidelong nce.


    Evelyn didn''t look at him, her


    attention still on Dahlia. In front of Dahlia, Evelyn brazenly hooked her little finger around Charles'' hand, her fingers teasingly ying in his palm.


    en

 Chapter 54

    Charles'' breath hitched. The look in his eyes darkened as he gazed at Evelyn. Across from them, Dahlia''s teeth were nearly grinding to dust. What a bitch...


    "Who said you can sit down? Go make dinner already." Carmen''s voice was cold and unyielding.


    "Of course, Carmen." Evelyn slowly stood up, and before doing so, she released Charles'' hand, her fingers trailing down his spine.


    A tingling sensation spread through him, causing Charles'' breath to hitch and his body to tense.


    "Aunt Carmen, I''ll go help too." Dahlia made a show of standing up.


    Sena grabbed her. "Dahlia, there''s no need for you to go. That''s a servant''s job. You''re going to be the future Mrs. Jenkins. We can''t have you doing such things, right, Charles?" "Uh-huh." Charles'' gaze unnoticeably followed Evelyn, his response distracted.


    Evelyn had just reached the kitchen door when she heard Charles'' words. She paused for a moment, then continued on.


    "Dahlia, let me take you and Sandy for a walk in the garden." Sena took Dahlia and Sandy by the hand.


    "Charles,ing?" Dahlia asked.


    "I''ve got things to handle." He stood and walked upstairs.


    ...


    Carmen deliberately made things difficult for Evelyn. She sent all the kitchen staff away on various errands, leaving Evelyn alone.


    Evelyn was prepared. It wasn''t her first time.


    Before, she was willing to serve the whole family for Charles'' sake.


    But now, things changed. If they made her cook, they''d better prepare to eat it.


    With an expressionless face, she tied on an apron and began preparing the ingredients.


    Arge hand opened the kitchen door from outside, and a burning hot body pressed up against her from behind.


    Charles pinned Evelyn against the countertop, his deep, husky voice in her ear. "What were you just doing?"


    His breath was scorching. Evelyn shrank her neck from the heat, her hands on the countertop involuntarily tightening.


    She turned around, pushing against Charles'' chest. She was about to push him away, when Dahlia''s voice came from outside. "Where''s Charles?"


    Dahlia had returned but did not find Charles in the upstairs study. She came downstairs and asked the servants.


    Evelyn stopped her pushing motion. Her hands slid slowly up his chest, hooking around his neck. Her body leaned back slightly, and her gaze locked onto his.


    She seemed just like before when her love for him showed in her eyes. Her rosy lips slightly parted as she saidol was obviously... seducing you."


    Evelyn was incredibly beautiful, a perfect beauty in every sense. Those eyes were innocent yet had a unique charm alt her own. When she


    at someone, it was as if sheed


    steal their soul. She''s seductive without even realizing it.


    "Didn''t you break up with me?" Charles pinched Evelyn''s waist, his thumb provocatively rubbing and pressing on her slender waist. Evelyn couldn''t help but tremble sensitively. Her eyes misted over, making her already captivating eyes even more entrancing.


    She tiptoed, bringing her lips close to his. She smelled as sweet as orchids, and her voice was sultry. "Didn''t you say no?"


    Evelyn had used her body to keep Charles at Oakwood Manor countless times before. She knew exactly how to seduce him.


    Charles'' gaze darkened, and his grip on Evelyn''s waist suddenly tightened. He pushed her against him, then pinned her against the countertop. Hisrge hand gripped her chin, and a barrage of kisses descended upon her.


    Evelyn wrapped her arms around Charles'' neck, not resisting as before but instead opening her mouth to wee him. She was perfectly submissive. Charles'' breathing waspletely erratic.

 Chapter 55

    During this period, Evelyn had been giving him the cold shoulder, causing tension between them.


    Suddenly, her warmth returned, and she responded enthusiastically, making him powerless to stop. He deepened their kiss even further.


    The temperature in the kitchen seemed to rise with their passion.


    Dahlia had been searching for Charles and noticed that Carmen had sent the kitchen staff away for some made-up reason. She realized Evelyn was left in the kitchen alone.


    Her gaze turned sinister as she approached the kitchen in her high heels.


    Sena noticed and quickly said, "Dahlia, there''s no way he''s in the kitchen."


    Dahlia ignored her and continued towards the kitchen.


    Charles heard the conversation outside. He regained some rity but didn''t let go of Evelyn. He kissed her even more fiercely. It was as if he had discovered a new vor he couldn''t resist. The sound of footsteps approached the kitchen. Only then did Charles release Evelyn''s lips and take a step back.


    Evelyn''s legs nearly gave out under her, and she had to steady herself against the kitchen counter, looking at Charles a step away from her.


    Unlike her disheveled state, Charles looked impable and strikingly handsome, as if the man passionately kissing her was someone else entirely.


    Evelyn''s eyes, cast down, shimmered with emotion.


    As Dahlia''s footsteps reached the kitchen door, Charles turned to leave. Evelyn suddenly stepped forward. Her arms reached for his shoulders, and her graceful body pressed against his. "Evelyn!" Charles'' voice was husky, a low warning. He tried to pull her arms away, but Evelyn suddenly reached for his neck, tiptoed, and her soft lips found his neck.


    A shiver ran through him from the touch, gathering at his core.


    Charles'' movements hesitated, and his voice sounded rougher as he said, "Evelyn, stop."


    Evelyn was like a siren. She gave him a provocative look and then pressed her lips firmly against his neck.


    Charles'' gaze turned dark and dangerous.


    The kitchen door opened.


    Evelyn let go of Charles and turned


    back to her work as if nothing had happened. Charles'' shirt was undone by two buttons, and the mark of her kiss was clearly visible to Dahlia.  en


    Her hands clenched tight.


    This bich!


    Dahlia barely restrained herself from rushing forward and pping Evelyn.


    "Charles, what are you doing in the kitchen? Dahlia has been looking for you for ages!"


    Following Dahlia''s gaze, Sena saw the conspicuous kiss mark on Charles'' neck. She exploded. "Evelyn, how shameless can you be? I thought you broke up with my brother, and now you''re seducing


    him in the kitchen!"


    Suddenly, Evelyn turned around. She had been seasoning food and had a delicate spoon filled with a heap of salt.


    In the moment Sena pointed and berated her, Evelyn fed the spoonful of salt into Sena''s mouth, saying, "Your mouth needs some cleaning."


    Sena, caught mid-sentence,


    swallowed intinctively. The


    overwhelming amount of salt distorted her face, and she rushed out of the kitchen towards the restroom.


    Charles didn''t bother to exin to Dahlia. He walked out of the kitchen withposure.


    Dahlia red fiercely at Evelyn before following him. The kitchen door closed once again.


    Evelyn raised her hand, wiping her lips hard, erasing the trace of Charles left on her lips.


    ...


    Evelyn prepared a "delicious and aromatic" lunch spread. She had already filled herself in the kitchen, and didn''t join the table after finishing the meal.

 Chapter 56

    No one called for her. Evelyn went to her grandmother''s backyard to tend to the garden.


    Although the Jenkins family employed a gardener, Evelyn woulde over from time to time to look after the nts and flowers.


    Rosa was abroad for medical treatment, and only the morning maid woulde into the yard.


    She trimmed the nts with care. Just as she was about to leave, Dahlia blocked her path.


    They were alone, so Dahlia dropped her disguise and cursed, "Evelyn, you keep saying you want to break up with Charles, and now you''re clinging to him again. Don''t you find yourself despicable..." Before she could finish her insult, Evelyn unexpectedly raised her hand and pped Dahlia. "Dahlia, mind yournguage."


    She red at Dahlia coldly, wishing she could tear her apart.


    Dahlia stepped back instinctively under her gaze. But the next second, the pain on her face made her realize what happened, and she stepped forward, trying to retaliate.


    "You dare to p me, you bitch!"


    As she raised her hand, Evelyn grabbed it. She forced Dahlia against a tree, barely restraining herself from strangling her.


    Her grip tightened as she took deep breaths to suppress the anger rising from within. Her gaze was as cold as ice, and her voice sinister. "Can''t handle it? Dahlia, this is just the beginning!" She let go of Dahlia and left.


    Dahlia fell to the ground, watching the direction Evelyn went, clenching her fists.


    "Mommy..." Sandy, who had found her way there, saw Dahlia and ran to her with teary eyes.


    She struggled to help Dahlia sit up, blowing gently on the p mark on her face with sympathy. "Mommy, I will make it better."


    She covered Dahlia''s face in saliva.


    Dahlia frowned, her disdain shing momentarily She pushed Sandy away. Her voice was choked up with tears, "Sandy, I''m okay. It''s all my fault for not being strong enough. I can''t beat Evelyn and Charlie"


    sw nov


    As she spoke, tears fell. Sandy immediately raised her hand to wipe away Dahlia''s tears. "Mommy, don''t cry. You still have me, and I won''t let that bad woman bully you. Mommy,


    I have a n. I''ll make her pay right now." .


    Last time, Charlie was ying with her, Dahlia told her to fall into the pool on purpose and to falsely im that it was Charlie who pushed her. Charles believed her and was furious. He punished Charlie severely. Evelyn was in tears when she took the unconscious Charlie away. That night, Dahlia was very happy. She had kissed Sandy for the first time in Charles'' absence, saying she was a good girl. Sandy ran off.


    Dahlia knew what Sandy''s n was but didn''t stop her. Instead, she slowly stood up.


    As she watched the direction her


    daughter had left, her lips curved et


    slightly With Sandy as her trump


    x


    card there was no way Evelyn could win against her.


    ...


    Evelyn stood by the artificialke.


    Sandy caught up from behind, ran in front of her, and smiled sweetly. "Ms. Evelyn."


    This smile was simr to Dahlia''s. It was off-putting.


    Evelyn noticed Sandy reaching out to her and quickly stepped back, avoiding her hand.


    Sandy''s hand fell through the air, and she threw herself backward into theke. She jumped without hesitation, not giving Evelyn time to react.

 Chapter 57

    Sshes erupted as Sandy fell into the icyke. "Sandy..."


    The moment Sandy hit the water, Dahlia''s voice, filled with panic and distress, echoed from not far away. Her cries tore through the air, "Somebody help! Sandy''s fallen into theke!"


    Her voice was loud, immediately drawing the attention of the servants outside.


    Upon hearing that Sandy had fallen into theke, some rushed to rescue her, while others quickly went to inform Charles.


    Sandy had only been at the Jenkins Estate for half a day, and all the servants already knew how much Charles cared for this daughter.


    It was not like the love he had for his and Evelyn''s daughter.


    Every time Charlie and Evelyn visited the Jenkins family estate, they never paid them any mind. Although Sandy hadn''t yet changed her surname or been officially recorded in the Jenkins family, they already treated her as the youngdy. Carmen and Sena also heard themotion and walked over from the opposite side of theke. They saw Sandy in the water.


    "What are you waiting for? Hurry and get her out," Carmen immediately ordered the servants to rescue her.


    Then, her gaze shifted to Evelyn,manding, "Hold her."


    Without even asking, Carmen had already pegged Evelyn as the culprit behind Sandy''s fall. The servants immediately approached and detained Evelyn.


    By the time Charles arrived, Sandy had just been pulled out of theke. In the winter, theke water was bone-chillingly cold. Even though she was quickly rescued, Sandy''s face was still blue with cold. She was shivering uncontrobly. Sandy saw Charles, and her eyes immediately reddened. Tears fell in big drops, and her teeth were chattering as she pitifully cried, "Daddy..."


    Charles hurried over, his gaze sweeping around. He asked coldly, "What happened?"


    As he spoke, he quickly removed Sandy''s wet garments, wrapped her in his own coat, and lifted her into his arms.


    Sandy curled up in Charles'' embrace. She sneakily nced at Evelyn, shaking even more violently, as if terrified, and said with a trembling voice, "Ms. Evelyn..."


    She couldn''t finish her sentence before her tears followed. She looked utterly pitiable.


    Charles'' gaze turned icy cold. He passed by Evelyn, and his frosty gazended on her. His brows furrowed. His eyes were sharp and piercing.


    Evelyn met Charles'' gaze.


    From that look, Evelyn knew that he believed she was the one who pushed Sandy.


    It''s just like the first time Sandy and Charlie met.


    Sandy had fallen into the pool. With just a veiled hint at Charlie, Charles didn''t even ask before deciding it was Charlie who had done it.


    ...


    Everyone returned to the main house''s living room. Evelyn was also forcibly brought over.


    Sandy had changed into dry clothes by then, visibly shocked and unwilling to leave Charles'' embrace.


    Her pale face rested against Charles, and her small hands clutched his shirt. She continuously shivered and softly called out, "Daddy."


    Dr. Nelson hurried over to examine her. "Mr. Charles, Miss Sandy has caught a bit of a chill. She''ll be fine after some ginger tea." Charles'' expression was slightly rxed.


    Dr. Nelson then added, reminding


    him kindly, "But she just underwent a kidney transnt not too long ago,


    and her body hasn''t ful


    A minor cold could be very dangerous for her, potentially leading toplications and irreversible damage. Her primary physician must have also cautioned you. You must be careful in the future."


    At those words, Charles'' expression grew terrifyingly grim. His gaze on Evelyn turned sharp as a knife.


    Dahlia, who had been crying throughout, also shuddered violently. Dr. Nelson''s words were like a catalyst, and long-suppressed emotions suddenly erupted.


    She turned to Evelyn, her eyes bloodshot, her voice trembling with usation, "Evelyn, ever since I came back with Sandy, you''ve been intolerant of us. You''ve targeted me again and again, instigating Charlie to harm Sandy. "I''ve been patient with you, for Charles'' sake. I told you more than once that if you''re angry, take it out on me, not Sandy.


    "Sandy is a poor girl. She''s been frail since childhood and suffered a lot. Now, after the surgery, you push her into theke. In this weather, theke water is so cold, it could kill her!


    "How can you be so cruel? How could you do such a thing to a five-year-old child?"


    Each of Dahlia''s words stepped on Evelyn''s sore spots.


    Dahlia was implying she was a cold-blooded creature, willing to do anything for her goals. So, naturally, that meant she could lie about Charlie''s death time and again, and of course, she could push Sandy into theke. Charles'' face darkened even further.


    Evelyn stood her ground, dignified.


    Facing Dahlia''s usations, she didn''t get angry. Her voice was calm. "I didn''t push her. Sandy fell into theke herself. I have..."


    Before she could say "evidence," Sena urgently interrupted her. "You''re lying."


    She didn''t give Evelyn a chance to defend herself and red at her with righteous indignation. Her words were biting,


    "I saw it with my own et


    eyes. Sandy was smiling and


    greeting you, but you reached out


    your wicked hand and pushed Sandy


    into theke.


    "Evelyn, you''re just jealous that my brother loves Dahlia, adores Sandy, and treats her well. You''re jealous that we all like Dahlia and Sandy, aren''t you? You''re really too evil!"


    Before Evelyn could speak again,


    Carmen interrupted her without giving her a chance. Her voice was harsh. "You''ve been in the Jenkins family for many years. You should know we don''t tolerate such


    underhanded tactics. Five,


    ago,


    you drugged Charles in a despicable manner. My brother and I warned you then, but you''ve repeatedly crossed the line. Today, if we don''t teach you a lesson, you won''t learn. Someone, take Evelyn to the family chapel, and let her reflect properly."


    At Carmen''smand, the servant immediately stepped forward, without giving Evelyn a chance to speak. They covered her mouth, dragging her toward the chapel.


    Evelyn struggled, her eyes reddening as she looked back at Charles. He sat on the sofa with a cold expression, watching her without intervening.


    Evelyn was dragged into the chapel.


    "Kneel!"

 Chapter 58

    Carmen sat in her chair, eyes coldly fixed on Evelyn. She found Evelyn''s face irksome from the first nce.


    She looked too much like that woman.


    Evelyn stood still, not moving. She swallowed down the words she had to prove she wasn''t guilty.


    In the Jenkins family, Carmen hated Evelyn the most.


    Evelyn had thought that today, at the very least, Charles would give her a chance to exin. She never expected that he still took Dahlia and her daughter''s words as gospel. Evelyn didn''t even get a chance to defend herself.


    She pressed her lips tightly together, fighting the sense of powerlessness within her. She was facing an opponent with backing and found it hard to move forward.


    "My mother said to kneel!" Sena''s eyes gleamed with satisfaction.


    She despised Evelyn to the core.


    Sena hade to the Jenkins family with her mother when she was little. Sena''s mother told her to win over her grandmother, but Rosa didn''t like her. Rosa preferred Evelyn instead. Rosa would protect her at every turn. It wasn''t just Rosa. Even Charles was openly and secretly guarding Evelyn. Over the years, Sena had never gained the upper hand over Evelyn. Today presented such a good opportunity. She wouldn''t let Evelyn off.


    Sena strode behind her, lifted her leg, and fiercely kicked Evelyn''s knee.


    Evelyn was hurt and bent her knee. With a thump, she knelt on the cold ground.


    Evelyn immediately tried to stand, but two servants harshly pressed her down, forcibly keeping her on the ground. She struggled but was pinned down tightly, unable to move. Carmenmanded sharply, "Use the ruler."


    At hermand, a servant immediately went to one side to pick up a long ruler. They repeatedly and harshly whipped it across Evelyn''s back.


    "Ugh." Evelyn clenched her teeth, refusing to let herself cry out.


    Carmen noticed Evelyn''s stubborn face, and her eyes turned even colder.


    Sena wanted to see Evelyn beg for mercy. She watched Evelyn endure ten strikes without even a grunt and was unsatisfied. Sena went to grab the most severe whip used for the family punishment.


    The whip was custom-made, covered with dense barbs, capable of not only tearing flesh but also hooking to it, deep enough to reveal the bone. This was a punishment reserved for Jenkins family members whomitted grave offenses.


    Carmen saw Sena pick it up and did not stop her.


    With a "crack!" Sena whipped the air, creating a piercing sound. She intentionally scared Evelyn, wanting to torment her.


    Evelyn just coldly looked at Sena.


    Sena couldn''t see the anticipated fear in Evelyn''s eyes or hear her beg for mercy, and she was furious. This time, she didn''t hold back and lifted the whip. The whip sliced through the air, aiming for Evelyn.


    Just before it hit, the shrine room door was suddenly kicked open, and amanding voice from the doorway boomed, "I''d like to see who dares touch Eve!" This voice was calm andmanding, holding immense authority and deterrence in the Jenkins family.


    Carmen immediately stood up. Sena was frightened and shook her hand. The whip was quickly retracted. The rebounding force caused the whip to harshly snap back onto her own thigh. Her thigh instantly tore open. The whip was thrown aside dragging away fresh flesh.


    "Ah!" Sena screamed out in pain.


    Carmen saw the person at the door. "Mom!"


    Sena, enduring the pain, timidly called out, "Grandma!"


    The servants were terrified and trembled. "Ma''am!"


    Everyone was afraid of Rosa except for Evelyn. She excitedly stood up and rushed over. "Rosa."


    "My dear Eve, are you alright?" Rosa took Evelyn into her arms, anxiously looking her over. "I''m fine."

 Chapter 59

    Evelyn shook her head, her eyes quietly reddening.


    "Grandma, when did you wake up? Howe you''ve returned home by yourself? Are you okay?"


    "I''m fine, dear. Tough as ever!"


    Rosa took Evelyn''s hand, patting it reassuringly.


    ...


    On the third floor, in Charles'' room, Sandy had cried herself to sleep.


    Dahlia was heartbroken and wiped away her tears.


    A servant came knocking. "Mr. Charles, Mrs. Jenkins requests your and Ms. Dahlia''s presence downstairs." Charles suddenly stood up. "Grandma''s back?"


    A spark of joy was evident in his eyes as he put Sandy down and headed downstairs.


    Dahlia, however, had apletely different reaction. She felt like she had plunged into icy waters.


    All she could think about was how Rosa had managed toe back.


    Wasn''t she supposed to be in aa?


    With her return, would the truth about what happened five years ago be impossible to hide? Dahlia was engulfed in immense panic.


    ...


    As Charles came downstairs and saw Rosa, he strode forward, calling out with a deep voice, "Grandma!"


    His voice could barely hide his excitement. Seeing his grandmother awake after two years filled Charles with joy.


    Rosa was also thrilled to hear Charles'' voice. He was her most cherished grandson. But the moment she saw Dahlia following behind him, her face darkened, displeasure written all over her face.


    She coldly nced at the two, turning her gaze away disdainfully and gripping Evelyn''s hand tighter. She continually patted it, trying to offerfort.


    Rosa knew how much Eve loved Charles and could imagine how hurt she must be seeing Charles and Dahlia together.


    Rosa''s wise eyes swept over everyone present, and then she asked Evelyn, "Eve, what happened?"


    "Grandma Evelyn is so evil. Sandy is only five years old, and in such cold weather, she pushed Sandy into theke That''s why mom and Charles had to punish her."


    ove


    Sena was not willing to let Evelyn off easily. She feared Rosa, but today, she believed Evelyn couldn''t defend herself. If they could prove Evelyn''s guilt, perhaps Rosa would also despise her.


    en


    "Eve, you tell me what happened!" Rosa didn''t take Sena''s word for it and turned to Evelyn to ask again.


    "Grandma, I didn''t push her."


    "Evelyn, how could you you didn''t? I saw it with my own eyes..."


    "Really? Are you sure you saw it with your own eyes?" Evelyn responded coldly, her gaze making Sena''s usations falter. "Grandma, I have proof." Before, she had wanted to tell Charles that she had evidence, but he never believed her.


    Carmen and her daughter didn''t even give Evelyn a chance to speak. They had already judged her guilty.


    "Where is the evidence?" Rosa looked at Evelyn with a tender gaze.


    Evelyn stood up, leading Rosa''s bodyguard back to theke. They went to the spot where Sandy had fallen into the water.


    From the nearby bushes, she retrieved her phone. The recording had been going on for almost an hour.


    From the moment Evelyn had intentionally left a kiss mark on Charles'' neck, she knew Dahlia would not stand for it and woulde looking for her. Evelyn had been cautious.


    She knew Dahlia''s character. Once Evelyn provoked her, she wouldn''t let this go easily.


    That was why she used her phone to record everything that happened at theke - just in case.


    Evelyn had anticipated Dahlia might


    try to frame her in some way. She


    saw Sandy charge at her and


    thought Sandy might fall and falsely use her of pushing her in theke.


    She never expected Sandy to jump into theke herself.


    ...


    Evelyn, holding her phone, watched theplete footage recorded on it.


    She returned to the living room, and handed the phone to Rosa, "Grandma, here''s the evidence."

 Chapter 60

    Rosa took the phone, nced at it, and her face suddenly darkened. She looked up and barked angrily, "Kneel down!"


    Sena was already feeling guilty and preparing to admit her faults after Evelyn mentioned evidence. She was taken aback by Rosa''s sudden outburst.


    She knew it. How could Evelyn possibly have any proof?


    At that time, when Sandy went to confront Evelyn, Sena was standing across theke, watching everything clearly. Besides Evelyn and Sandy, she was the only witness. As long as she insisted on her version, Evelyn would have no way to refute it. Evidence? She almost believed Evelyn''s nonsense.


    With this thought, Sena straightened her back and lifted her head. She noticed Evelyn still standing beside her and immediately scolded her with a cold face, "Evelyn, didn''t you hear grandma telling you to kneel? Do it now!"


    As she spoke, she reached for Evelyn''s arm, intending to force her down.


    "You are the one that should kneel!" Rosa''s voice thundered again.


    "Me?" Sena was shocked. She met Rosa''s stern gaze and, frightened, copsed onto the floor with a "thud." "Grandma, what did I do wrong?" Sena, convinced Evelyn had no evidence, knelt there, pleading her case.


    "Is this what you imed to have seen with your own eyes?"


    With just one look from Rosa, the butler, Tony, had already projected the video from Evelyn''s phone onto the wall.


    Everyone''s attention shifted to the video. It clearly showed that Evelyn didn''t push Sandy. Sandy fell into theke on her own.


    Sena''s face turned pale instantly. She hadn''t expected Evelyn to actually have evidence.


    This bitch! She must have set a trap in advance just to watch her fall into it.


    "Evelyn, I can''t believe it. You deliberately recorded everything on the phone just to get Grandma to punish me, didn''t you?" "p!"


    With a raised hand, a fierce pnded on Sena''s face. The look in Rosa''s eyes was filled with extreme disappointment. Sena, holding her face, had never been treated harshly by Rosa, let alone been hit. This was the first time Rosa struck her. All because of that bitch, Evelyn.


    "Grandma, why did you hit me? Where did I go wrong? It''s obvious that Evelyn was deliberately framing me!"


    "How dare you say that! What''s wrong with Eve being cautious? Did she hold a knife to your throat and force you to lie and frame her?" Rosa was furious. As she watched Sena''s defiant and unrepentant face, she raised her hand to p her again.


    "Mom!" Before Rosa couldnd the


    second stap, Carmen stepped forward to shield Sena. "Mom, Sena is still young and naive. Please, don''t stoop to her level."


    "Young? How is she twenty-four and still naive? When does she n to grow up? Carmen, you spoiled Sena!" Carmen dared not respond.


    Rosa red at her sharply, then


    turned her gaze to Sena. "You go to


    the chapel and kneel to reflect on


    §Õ§Ý§ñ


    your actions. No one is to let her out without my permission!"


    In the Jenkins family, Rosa had the absolute say. At hermand, Sena was dragged away.


    Catching Rosa''s stern look, Carmen swallowed back her plea for mercy. As she returned to her seat on the sofa, her gaze harshly swept over Evelyn.


    Evelyn calmly met her gaze, her eyes


    moving past Carmen tond on


    Dahlia, who was sitting next to Charles, trying her best to make herself inconspicuous.


    Was she acting fearful and innocent now? Evelyn wasn''t nning to let her off.


    "Grandma, Dahlia was also in this," Evelyn said, with her eyes reddened, in a voice filled with hurt.


    Dahlia might rely on Charles'' power, but she could rely on Rosa''s.

 Chapter 61

    Rosa clearly paused for a moment. She nced at Evelyn and couldn''t help feeling joy in her heart. Evelyn had finally stopped swallowing all her grievances and had learned to speak up.


    Good.


    The reassurance in Rosa''s eyes turned sharp as she looked up, her gaze cutting towards Dahlia like a knife.


    Dahlia was already intimidated by Rosa. She felt her heart sink as Evelyn deliberately drew her attention. Despite her seething frustration, she was powerless. She could only quietly tug at Charles'' sleeve and whisper, "Charles," hoping he would stand up for her. But she received no response.


    She quietly looked up and met Charles'' cold gaze.


    Dahlia''s heart skipped a beat, and then it sank. She quickly lowered her eyes, her mind racing.


    When she looked up again, tears welled up, and she said in a pitiful voice, "Evelyn, I''m really sorry. I was just so worried about Sandy earlier, and I spoke without thinking. I didn''t mean to."


    Her words were meant more for Charles than Evelyn. Charles'' expression softened a lot. He clearly believed Dahlia''s exnation. He gave Evelyn a look briefly, signaling her to stop there.


    A sh of coldness passed through Evelyn''s eyes. Dahlia''s casual apology was meant to lightly gloss over everything. The injustice Evelyn suffered, being dragged into the fray, was deemed trivial. Pretending not to understand Charles'' intention, Evelyn suddenly stood up, walked over to Dahlia, and raised her hand.


    "p "


    "p "


    She quicklynded two ps on Dahlia''s face.


    After hitting her, with eyes also reddened and looking pitiful, she said to the stunned Dahlia. "Dahlia, I''m really sorry. I didn''t mean to."


    Her tone, much like Dahlia''s, seemed apologetic but felt far from sincere.


    "Evelyn!" Charles became angry, grabbing Evelyn''s wrist firmly.


    The pain on Dahlia''s face brought her back to reality. Her eyes reddened from the ps. Forgetting the situation, she eximed, "Evelyn, how dare you hit me!"


    Standing up, she attempted to


    retaliate against Evelyn. Her hand had barely lifted when it was met with a harsh strike from a walking stick. The pain caused her to retract her hand with a cry.


    Rosa''s stern voice followed. "Don''t you dare touch Eve!"


    "Grandma, Evelyn hit me first!" Dahlia, with her cheeks swollen and eyes red with anger, was extremely aggrieved.


    "That''s because you falsely used her first. Eve is not someone who starts trouble without reason."


    Rosa showed tant favoritism towards Evelyn.


    Evelyn''s eyes welled up with tears


    she barely held back. In the five


    years Rosa was away, she had


    suffered too many grievances in the Jenkins family. Only Rosa would


    believe in her and favor her


    unconditionally.


    "And stop calling me your grandma."


    Rosa had no affection for Dahlia. She held Evelyn''s hand. "Eve, as long as I am here, no one will dare to bully you."


    Dahlia was furious but dared not express it. She could only y the victim, her eyes brimming with tears as she looked pitifully at Charles, embodying the image of an vulnerable girl.


    Rosa was utterly disgusted. She


    returned to her seat at the head of


    the table, her gaze coldly sweeping


    over Carmen and Charles. She struck the ground heavily with her walking stick and demanded sternly, "Who allowed Dahlia toe in? Didn''t I say as long as I''m here for a day, she''s not to step foot into the Jenkins family''s door? What, have I grown so old that my words no longer carry weight in this house?"

 Chapter 62

    Rosa didn''t explicitly ask Dahlia to leave, but her words felt like a p across Dahlia''s face, leaving her humiliated. Today, the respect that Carmen and her daughter had showed them at the Jenkins family waspletely lost. Dahlia turned to Charles, but he remained silent.


    She knew that Rosa was the family member Charles cared about the most. Five years ago, he considered Rosa''s opinion and never gave her a proper status. Five yearster, nothing had changed. She then looked at Carmen. Carmen was cold-faced and didn''t look at her.


    Dahlia gripped her hands tightly. She slowly stood up, struggling to keep the smile on her face, and said with difficulty, "Rosa, I won''t bother you any longer."


    "I''ll walk you and Sandy back." Charles stood up as well.


    "Stop." Rosa''s sharp rebuke was followed by a violent cough.


    Charles'' expression changed instantly. He rushed to Rosa''s side, visibly anxious. "Grandma."


    "Rosa." Evelyn''s face also turned pale. She patted Rosa''s back and urgently said to Tony, "Tony, call Dr. Nelson."


    Carmen also came over. "Mom."


    Rosa realized that she had scared Evelyn and secretly tugged at her hand. Evelyn then realized that Rosa was feigning her condition, and her heart, which had leaped to her throat, instantly calmed down. Dahlia was left out. She knew Charles wouldn''t be able to send her off. She went upstairs to bring down Sandy, who was sleeping.


    Downstairs, everyone''s attention was still on Rosa. No one noticed Dahlia. She bit her teeth, holding the sleeping Sandy, and left the Jenkins family mansion in her ten-centimeter heels.


    The more glorious her arrival, the more pathetic her departure.


    Once out of the Jenkins family''s sight, Dahlia angrily dropped Sandy to the ground.


    Her actions were rough. Sandy woke up from the fall, rubbing her eyes groggily and meeting a pair of cold eyes. She couldn''t help but shiver and timidly called out, "Mommy..." Dahlia didn''t respond. She just coldly nced at her and walked away.


    Sandy didn''t understand what she had done wrong. She quickly scrambled up from the ground and followed.


    Dahlia walked briskly, not caring for


    Sandy, who was five-year-old and


    just recovering from an illness.


    Sandy didn''t dare toin of difort and ran after her mother.


    en


    Back at the Jenkins family home, as soon as Dahlia left, Rosa sat up spiritedly, showing no sign of difort. "Grandma." Charles frowned.


    Rosa huffed gently, stood up with Evelyn''s help, and said to Charles, "You,e with me." Rosa led Charles into the family chapel.


    Sena, who was kneeling inside, turned around upon hearing the noise, hoping for forgiveness.


    "Who allowed you to stand?" Rosa''s cold rebuke made Sena kneel again in fright. She was already in pain from kneeling, and her knees hurt even more with the force, causing her to copse to the ground


    "Sena..." Carmen moved forward with sympathy, holding Sena and giving her a look, signaling her to apologize to Rosa. Sena was spoiled from birth. She couldn''t bear kneeling for nearly an hour and hurriedly apologized, "Grandma, I''m sorry." "You''re not apologizing to the right person!" Rosa''s expression was cold.


    Sena realized that her grandmother wanted her to apologize to Evelyn, but she did not want to. Before she could speak, Carmen pulled her back. "Do you want to kneel here until tomorrow?" Reluctantly, Sena bowed to Evelyn, kneeling on the ground and mumbling, "I''m sorry."


    "It seems you haven''t knelt enough." Rosa didn''t indulge Sena.


    With that, Sena couldn''t care less about her pride. She was afraid that her grandmother would actually make her kneel until morning. She couldn''t bear that.


    She had no choice but to suppress her indignation and apologize to Evelyn. "Evelyn, I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have falsely used you."

 Chapter 63

    After all, Sena was Rosa''s granddaughter. Rosa didn''t continue to make things difficult for her. She had other matters to attend to. With a cold snort, shemanded, "Leave." Carmen immediately helped Sena up, and they left the chapel.


    The door shut from the outside.


    Rosa''s gaze shifted to Charles, and suddenly, she spoke, "Charles, kneel!"


    Charles'' knees bent, and he knelt down.


    "You promised me you would take good care of Eve. Is this how you take care of her?"


    Not only had he failed to take care of Eve, but he also joined Dahlia, that schemer, in bullying Eve.


    Those women were horrible, but Charles was even more despicable!


    "Madam..." Tony, who was signaled to fetch the whip, tried to persuade her.


    Rosa silenced him with a look, her expression cold as she sternly said, "No one is to speak for him."


    Evelyn knew that Rosa''s words were meant for her. She was afraid Evelyn would take pity on Charles and plead for him.


    How could she?


    Evelyn feigned reluctance, looking down and turning her face away.


    Rosa sighed, raised her hand, and fiercely whipped Charles'' back.


    Dahlia and her mother had saved Charles'' life. Charles had mentioned that if it weren''t for Dahlia, he might have died before they found him and brought him back.


    Rosa wasn''t ungrateful. If Dahlia were a good person, Rosa would have been happy to see them together. But one could tell at a nce that Dahlia had impure motives. She was no good person. Charles was just stubbornly fixated on the affection from their childhood.


    Rosa''s whip struck Charles'' back fiercely with all her might. She was furious.


    If she hadn''t decided to surprise them bying back from abroad today, who knows how much more Eve would have suffered?


    Charles always knew. He knew that Sena and Carmen could not stand Evelyn, and would seize any opportunity to bully her, yet he dared to leave Evelyn in their care.


    Hearing the sound of the whip cutting through the air, Evelyn stood behind Rosa, watching without pity, only coldness in her eyes.


    She watched as Charles took Rosa''s tenshes. His ck shirt was torn, and his flesh wasid open. He bore it silently, without a whimper.


    Rosa threw the whip aside, pulled Evelyn over, and whispered, "Eve, I''m tired and going to rest. You go tend to this rascal''s wounds."


    After saying that, she winked at Evelyn.


    Evelyn knew Rosa was creating an opportunity for her. "Of course, grandma."


    Under Rosa''s watchful eyes, Evelyn went forward to support Charles, who entrusted most of his weight to Evelyn.


    As the two of them left, Rosa spat out, "What a foolish boy! If he doesn''t wake up, he''ll regret it."


    Rosa was well aware that these wounds meant nothing to Charles. He was just putting on a show.


    ...


    On the third floor, Charlesy on the couch in his bedroom.


    His ck shirt had been removed, revealing an upper body with well-defined muscles and not an ounce of excess fat. His back bore ten crisscrossing scars. There was a knock at the door, and Evelyn went to open it.


    "Ms. Evelyn, this is Mr. Charles'' special ointment."


    Evelyn knew Charles had a special ointment, and it was quite an expensive box. She took it, thanked the person politely, and then closed the door. As she opened the ointment, she smelled the familiar scent of medicine.


    It was...


    "What are you staring at? Come over and apply the medicine." Charles broke into Evelyn''s thoughts.


    She walked over and sat down beside Charles. She squeezed out some ointment, applying it to his wounds with a cotton swab. Her touch was firm. "Hisss!"


    Charles let out a muffled groan,


    turning his head to nce at Evelyn.


    When he saw her face set in concentration, he smirked, and his


    Evelyn acted like she hadn''t heard, continuing with a heavy hand. It hadn''t felt like much when being hit, but applying the ointment made Charles break out in a cold sweat from the pain.  en


    Finally, after the ointment was


    applied, Evelyn immediately stooget


    up to leave. But just as she got up, Charles suddenly reached out, pulling her towards him.


    In a whirl, Evelyn fell into Charles'' arms. He lowered his head and sealed her lips.

 Chapter 64

    Charles'' well-defined hands gripped her slender waist tightly, pulling their bodies so close together that there was no space left between them.


    He opened his mouth and bit down hard on Evelyn''s lips as if to punish her. His breath was hot as his fingertips gently caressed the most sensitive spot on her waist, and he felt her shiver in his arms. His voice was low and hoarse, "Are you trying to torment me?" Wrapped in Charles'' strong masculine scent, Evelyn''s hands weakly pushed against his chest, trying to create some distance between them. She denied his usation with feigned toughness. "No."


    She tried to pull away from the grip he had on her waist, struggling to get up. But as soon as she moved, Charles pulled her back down. This time, she was sitting directly on hisp.


    Evelyn noticed herself heating up. Was his breath making her hot or something else?


    Her earlobes were burning.


    "No?"


    Charles'' gaze was dark as he looked at the bright red flush on Evelyn''s earlobe.


    She was very sensitive. A single touch would spread a charming blush across her body. She was like a delicately blooming flower, irresistible and tempting.


    Charles'' Adam''s apple moved as he suddenly grabbed her by the neck and pulled her towards him, pressing his lips against hers. He pried open her teeth and invaded her mouth, conquering her defenses.


    His kiss was deep, leaving Evelyn overwhelmed. She wanted to retreat, but Charles had a firm grip on her slender waist and the back of her neck, dominating herpletely.


    His strength caused Evelyn pain, making her frown involuntarily. Her hands climbed to his back, pressing against his wound.


    Charles winced, loosening his hold on Evelyn slightly. He rolled over her lips, staring into her moist eyes.


    A hint of desire tinted Charles'' eyes as he grabbed the back of her head, pulling her closer, his kiss bing even more ferocious. Charles'' breathing grew heavier. As the world spun around them, he pressed Evelyn onto the couch.


    When Charles pressed down on her fully, Evelyn couldn''t help but cry out in pain, "It hurts!"


    Charles noticed Evelyn''s face turn pale quickly. He stopped his movements, and realized something. He began to unbutton her clothes.


    Evelyn tried to resist, but Charles firmly pulled her hands aside. "I''ve seen all of you anyway."


    Evelyn bit her lip, letting Charles


    unbutton her clothes, revealing her delicate skin. Her body was beautifully curved, with a perfect waist-to-hip ratio. Her skin was glowing, with a faint blush.


    At that moment, Charles was too preupied to appreciate it as he turned her around. There were several clear red marks on her wless skin, obviously from being disciplined with a ruler.


    A storm brewed in Charles'' eyes.


    After a moment, he reached for the ointment that had fallen to the side.


    He squeezed some out and applied it to the red marks on her back. The ointment was cool, causing Evelyn to shiver slightly.


    Charles'' warm, dry fingertips gently spread the ointment, his movements unusually gentle.


    As the ointment sank in, the fiery pain in her back gradually eased. Only Charles'' fingers continued down her spine, leaving a tingling sensation. Evelyn''s hands, resting on the couch, clenched tightly.


    "Charles." Evelyn suddenly spoke.


    "Hmm?" Charles'' voice was husky.


    His fingertips continued to press lightly on the marks, massaging them away. His gaze on her back was fiery and intense as if wanting to burn her skin.


    Evelyn struggled to contain her


    emotions. Her voice was tight.


    "Sandy and Charlie first met when she fell into a swimming pool


    Doesn''t today remind you of that?"


    en


    As soon as she finished speaking, Charles'' movements abruptly stopped, his fiery gaze turning cold and his voice deepening. "What are you trying to say?"

 Chapter 65

    Evelyn did not halt the conversation due to his anger but continued, "I was thinking, if Dahlia''s poolside was also under surveince, would the truth of that day be as clear as today''s truth." "Evelyn!" Charles'' emotions fluctuated, and the pressure he applied on her back noticeably increased.


    The brief warmth shared between them vanished in an instant.


    "Ouch!" Evelyn winced in pain, unable to suppress a muffled groan.


    Charles eased his grip, but his annoyance was evident. He stood up, looking down at Evelyn on the sofa, his voice cold. "Evelyn, you didn''t push Sandy today, but it doesn''t mean Charlie didn''t push Sandy that day." After saying this, Charles turned and left.


    Evelyn slowly rose from the sofa and put on her clothes with a cold look in her eyes. She had thought that after the same scenario today, Charles might have been swayed even if he didn''t believe her before. She had underestimated Dahlia and Sandy''s ce in Charles'' heart.


    ...


    At Carmen''s house, Sena had just been treated for her injuries. Tears filled her eyes as she looked at her bruised knees and the torn skin on her legs. She sat on the sofa with hatred in her eyes, growing angrier by the minute. "That bitch Evelyn! I will never let her off."


    As soon as she finished speaking, a servant from Charles'' household came in. "Ms. Sena, Mr. Charles has ordered you to the family chapel for discipline."


    Sena''s pupils shrank, her body resisting. "I''m not going."


    Her legs were whipped, and it hurt, and now she was to undergo family discipline. She couldn''t bear it.


    "Ms. Sena, my apologies."


    The two were following Charles'' orders, so they ignored Sena''s resistance and dragged her out of the house and into the chapel.


    By the time Carmen arrived, Sena had already been disciplined. She had been hit for ten times by the ruler and was lying on the ground, weeping with tears and snot all over her face. Seeing Carmen, Sena cried out in pain, her cries heart-wrenching.


    Carmen was extremely distressed.


    She had someone take Sena back to her house to be taken care of, and


    then she went to the main house with a cold face, confronting Charles sitting on the sofa. "Charles, what is the meaning of this? Where did Sena go wrong to deserve family discipline?


    "She''s just a girl and is always afraid of pain. How could she endure tenshes?" "Aunt Carmen, Evelyn is the same age as her." Charles'' voice was cold. Carmen immediately got it. Charles was venting for Evelyn.


    Evelyn was only supposed to kneek in the chapel as a punishment, but Sena, eager to deal with Evelyn had invoked family discipline on her.


    helongs to


    Carmen clenched her fists. "Isn''t Dahlia the one you love?"


    He wasn''t supposed to care about Evelyn, so what was this all about?


    "Aunt Carmen, you should consider cussions of your actions


    the


    eyes


    tone was calm, but chilling.


    Evelyn stood on the second floor. The slight turbulence in her eyes calmed once again when she heard Charles''s speech.


    She walked down the stairs. Carmen red at her fiercely and left.


    Evelyn ignored Carmen and headed straight to the kitchen. She nned to cook some of her grandmother''s favorite dishes.


    As she passed by Charles, she didn''t look at him.


    Charles'' gaze followed her, and he called out, "Evelyn."


    Evelyn didn''t want to engage with Charles at the moment and continued walking.


    Charles spoke from behind her, "Where is Charlie? I''ll pick her up to join grandmother for dinner."

 Chapter 66

    Hearing Charles mention Charlie, Evelyn''s body instantly stiffened.


    "Evelyn, stop acting crazy." Charles noted Evelyn''s silence and warned her with a heavy voice.


    Evelyn knew that Charles was warning her not to say Charlie was dead every time he mentioned her.


    The color in Evelyn''s eyes darkened slightly. She had never intended to bring it up in front of Charles. She was just worried about Rosa.


    Rosa adored Charlie so much before she fell into aa, and now that she had finally woken up, could she take it knowing that Charlie was dead? Evelyn didn''t dare take that risk.


    Her lips moved, about to say something, but at that moment, an elderly voice came from the staircase


    "What are you talking about? Who are you picking up to have dinner with me?"


    It was Rosa.


    Evelyn panicked inside. Forcing herself to be calm, she suppressed the difort in her heart and put on a smile as she stepped forward. "Grandma, it''s nothing..."


    She was about to find an excuse to sidestep the topic, but Charles spoke before she could, "Charlie."


    He watched Evelyn, not giving her a chance. She had hidden Charlie for too long.


    Evelyn couldn''t help but re fiercely at Charles from a corner where Rosa couldn''t see, then turned her gaze to Rosa. "Grandma, Charlie... She''s..."


    "Who is Charlie?" Rosa asked with a frown, clearly puzzled.


    Evelyn''s pupils shook, and she swallowed back the words she was about to say.


    Rosa... didn''t remember Charlie?


    Charles also realized something was off and immediately picked up his phone to message Dr. Nelson and ask him toe over.


    "Eve, why aren''t you speaking?" Rosa patted Evelyn''s hand.


    Evelyn held her hand back, struggling to suppress the turmoil in her heart.


    Blinking away the mist forming in her eyes, Evelyn spoke of Charlie with a gentle tone, "Charlie is someone very important to me."


    "A very important person? Then I must meet her. Charles, go pick her up," Rosa instructed Charles.


    "Grandma, Charlie... she''s not avable today... I''ll take you to meet her another time."


    "Oh, is that so? Well, when she''s free, you mus


    meet bring her home and l ether properly. I like anyone !.!


    that''s good to you, "


    Poor Eve had it tough. Rosa initially thought that Charles would support Eve when Evelyn joined the Jenkins family.


    Everything was going well. Charles was very good to Eve. Rose was just waiting for their marriage.


    Who would have thought that that conniving bitch Dahlia woulde out of nowhere!


    "Okay." Evelyn lowered her eyelids, hiding her reddening eyes.


    lin this family, only Rosa truly loved Charlie.


    ...


    Dr. Nelson arrived quickly.


    Worried about Rosa''s health, Evelyn talked her into getting a check-up. Rosa didn''t want to Evelyn to worry and agreed. Half an hourter, Dr. Nelson came out of Rosa''s room.


    "How is Grandma?"


    "How is Grandma?"


    Charles and Evelyn asked in unison.


    "As long as she is not subjected to any shocks and takes good care of herself, there shouldn''t be any major issues with her health for now. But..." Dr. Nelson paused.


    "But what?" Evelyn asked anxiously.


    "Her memory clearly has gaps."


    "I just did a test, and her memory seemed to have stopped on one night five years ago... And the,


    memories of thest five years are missing."

 Chapter 67

    Charles instinctively furrowed his brow. This meant he could no longer mention Charlie in front of Grandma. He nced sideways at Evelyn beside him, noticing her visible sigh of relief. Charles'' gaze darkened slightly. Just how long was she nning to keep Charlie hidden?


    "If you re at Eve one more time, believe it or not, I''ll gouge out your eyes." Rosa came out just in time to see Charles giving Evelyn a cold look again. She was immediately infuriated. Raising her hand, Rosa smacked him hard on the back. "Ouch!" Charles gasped in pain.


    "Serves you right!"


    Rosa said it served him right, but her eyes were filled with concern. She had forgotten she had just used the whip on Charles.


    ...


    Evelyn cooked a few of Rosa''s favorite dishes, making Rosa so happy that she ate an extra half bowl of rice.


    After dinner, Rosa dragged Evelyn to walk with her in the garden.


    Suddenly, the weather changed, and a torrential downpour began. Worried about Rosa''s health, Evelyn took off her jacket and shielded Rosa. She didn''t ept Rosa''s refusal.


    By the time the servants arrived with an umbre, Rosa hadn''t been touched by the rain, while Evelyn waspletely soaked.


    "Eve, hurry and take a hot shower. Don''t catch a cold," Rosa urged her.


    "Alright."


    Next Monday, Evelyn was due to report to Carlisle Jewels. Worried about catching a cold, she went to Charles'' courtyard.


    She entered Charles'' room to take a shower.


    Rosa stood behind, watching Evelyn enter Charles'' room without saying a word, her lips curving into a smile.


    She couldn''t wait for Evelyn and Charles to spend more nights together, hopefully resulting in a great-grandchild and making it impossible for Charles not to marry Evelyn.


    ...


    After dinner, Charles headed to his study for a video conference. His meetingssted at least two hours, so he wouldn''t return to his room so early.


    Evelyn, feeling uneasy, still locked


    the door after entering. She quickly stripped off her soaked clothes, tossed them into the dryer, and prepared to wear them after her bath.  en


    She had been with Charles for five years, and they always lived at Oakwood Manor. They only asionally visited Jenkins Estate, and even then, they left after dinner. She had never stayed overnight in his room, nor did she have clothes there.


    In the bathroom, steam rose, enveloping the space in warmth.


    Evelyn stood under the showerhead, turning on the thermostat-controlled water, letting the warm water cascade over her and washing away the chill.


    Soon, the bathroom filled with


    steam, warming her body gradually. The pitter-patter of water drowned out any noise from outside. She didn''t hear the bedroom door lock being turned.


    en


    Charles stood outside the bedroom door, turning the lock, only to find it was locked from the inside.


    His gaze darkened.


    He didn''t knock but signaled for the butler to bring the key, unlocking the door himself. He stepped into the bedroom and gently closed the door with a "bang." Evelyn was inside andpletely unaware.


    Charles stood at the doorway. The bedroom lights were off, and the brightness wasing from the direction of the bathroom.


    His gaze shifted. The bright light and frosted ss outlined Evelyn''s graceful figure, indistinct, yet not entirely hidden.


    But to Charles, who had memorized Evelyn''s form countless times, even a silhouette was enough to conjure her clear curves in his mind.


    Charles'' gaze darkened, his breathing gradually bing heavier. He locked the door, took off his suit jacket, tossed it aside, and walked over.


    He stood at the bathroom door. "Whoosh-"


    He reached out and slid the door open.

 Chapter 68

    The moment the door swung open, Evelyn was midway through her shower, and her back was to the door as shethered herself with body wash.


    She heard the door and swiftly turned her head. Her eyes met Charles'' predatory gaze.


    Evelyn''s cheeks instantly med red. Her ears felt as if they would bleed. She immediately covered herself, turning around with a mix of shame and anger. "Charles, who let you in? Get... get out!" At this moment, she waspletely bare, and utterly trapped.


    "This is my bathroom."


    Charles leaned against the bathroom door, wearing a high-quality dress shirt with the cuffs undone and rolled up, revealing his expensive watch.


    He casually began to remove his watch, cing it aside. His gaze, full of aggression, settled on Evelyn.


    Her long hair was damp and spread over her shoulders, making her skin glow even more.


    The scars on her back were now only faint traces after applying special ointment. It reminded him of the sensation of touching her skin as he applied medicine not long ago.


    Charles caught his breath, finding it difficult to exhale. He loosened his tie to make breathing easier. His gaze towards Evelyn grew even more fervent.


    She stood in the hot water, her back to him, desperately covering herself. Her figure was too enticing and her chest fluctuated with her emotions as if about to slip from her grasp at any second. Charles'' eyes darkened, filled with an unspoken depth and intensity. His look was undisguised as if he wanted to devour her.


    Evelyn felt herself blush all over. She didn''t even know whether it was due to the room''s temperature or the intensity of his gaze. Her toes, bare on the floor, visibly curled. Her entire body was tense.


    Evelyn realized that Charles would not be persuaded to leave. She disregarded her foamy state and hurriedly attempted to grab a towel to cover herself. But before her fingers could touch the towel Charles stepped forward and Snatched it away, tossing it carelessly into a corner.


    "Charles!"


    Evelyn was furious. She raised her hand to push Charles away, attempting to retrieve the towel.


    As she moved, he suddenly gripped her waist tightly. Charles pinned her against the cold wall, seizing her chingturning her head, and pressing his lips against hers.


    Evelyn''s body, warmed by the hot water, suddenly came into contact with the cold tiles. The mix of hot and cold made her shiver involuntarily. She didn''t want Charles to touch her.


    As he kissed her, she tried to squirm away, managing to utter through clenched teeth, "Charles, let me go!"


    "Let you go? You can seduce me, but you can''t handle the consequences?"


    Charles held her neck, pressing her closer to him. His lips gently bit and grazed Evelyn''s, not with the forceful intensity he had used before when she resisted, but patiently, teasingly. It was like ying with a cato


    swnov


    Tonight, he had all the time in the world. Patience was something he could afford.


    The hot water soon soaked through Charles'' shirt, and his warm chest pressed against Evelyn''s back.


    Even through the fabric of his shirt, she could feel Charles'' muscr contour behind her.


    Evelyn leaned against the wall, recalling her actions in the living room to provoke Dahlia and her deliberate flirtation with Charles.


    Charles had followed her into the kitchen, and she remembered the scene that unfolded there.

 Chapter 69

    However...


    "I don''t want this anymore." Evelyn pushed her elbow against Charles'' chest, trying not to let him get too close.


    "Huh." Charles chuckled softly, his voice deep and husky.


    "You think I''m so easy to manipte? Do you think you can flirt when you want and push me away when you don''t? Hmm?"


    His strong, defined hand gripped her waist, and his thin lips kissed behind her ear.


    That was Evelyn''s sensitive spot, and she felt a tingling sensation run through her body. She shrank her neck, feeling his determination. "Charles! Grandma is waiting for me!" Without Dahlia around, Evelyn just wanted to be far away from Charles.


    "Grandma said she flew for over twenty hours. She''s tired and already asleep and told you not to disturb her rest."


    Charles blocked her way out.


    If Grandma''s memory had stopped five years ago, that would have been when she was most eager to match him with Evelyn. She probably wished they could spend more time together. Little did she know that in those five missing years of her memory, he and Evelyn had already shared countless nights together.


    "Evelyn, you can''t escape tonight." Charles'' voice was so hoarse it sounded almost strange.


    As the words fell, Charles'' handnded on her back. Evelyn''s entire body tensed up. She was furious and gritted her teeth. "Charles, let me go!"


    Evelyn''s eyes reddened with anger. She lifted her leg to stomp hard on Charles'' foot. But before she could, her body suddenly lifted off the ground, and her feet left the floor.


    Charles easily picked her up by the waist with one arm and smoothly turned her around in his embrace.


    The sudden loss of gravity made Evelyn instinctively wrap her arms around Charles'' neck as she hung onto him.


    Charles no longer restrained himself, grabbed her chin, and kissed her.


    Evelyn''s lips were tightly sealed as she continued struggling futilely. Charles pressed against her lips and chuckled softly. The hand gripping her waist suddenly pinched the soft flesh there. Evelyn was caught off guard and gave Charles an opportunity.


    Fuming with anger, she moved her hands behind him, climbed up his back, and pressed hard on his wound through the wet shirt.


    Charles'' back wound was much


    more severe than Evelyn''s. The open


    wound had been treated with


    medicine to reduce swelling, but the hot water made it prone to reopening. When Evelyn pressed like this, the wound tore open again. Blood seeped from the wound, mixing with the hot water and falling to the floor. The faint smell of blood mixed with the scent of men''s body wash was intoxicating.


    Charles kissed Evelyn even more fiercely.


    The temperatore in the bathroom kept rising. Charles'' relentless pursuit made Evelyn feel oxygen-deprived, and breathing became increasingly difficult. She went limp in Charles'' arms and


    couldn''t resist any longer.


    By the time she came to, Charles had already carried her out of the bathroom and tossed onto the couch. He leaned down, lowering his head to kiss her again.


    Just then, a familiar ringtone from Charles'' suit jacket pocket on the couch broke the moment of intimacy. It was a call from Dahlia.


    Evelyn''s previously resistant movements suddenly stopped.


    Charles also released her at the


    same time, but he didn''t let gopletely. He obviously didn''t intend to stop. His body still pressed against hers, trapping her between the couch and his body.


    One hand reached for the phone. His voice was deep and husky as he answered, "Dahlia."


    Evelyn had been biting her lip in resistance throughout, but now she suddenly rxed her jaws at this moment, making a moan clear enough for Dahlia on the phone to hear.

 Chapter 70

    Charles'' gaze suddenly darkened, his breathpletely out of sync. He raised his hand, gently covering Evelyn''s lips, silencing her yful teasing. "What is it?" he asked, his voice dropping to a low, slightly impatient tone. This was unlike the old days when a call from Dahlia would have him rushing out the door.


    Evelyn''s eyes, misty and full of emotion, locked onto Charles. She looked at him with the same intensity she had so many times before. In his arms, she waspliant, eager to please. That look was more than Charles could handle, and his breathing quickened. Charles frowned. When he waited several seconds without hearing Dahlia''s voice, he grew impatient, and ended the call abruptly. He tossed the phone aside without a second thought and leaned in to kiss Evelyn with renewed intensity. But just as their lips met, the phone rang again.


    This time, Charles ignored it, continuing the kiss. The ringing persisted, cutting off only to start up again almost immediately. On the third ring, Evelyn managed to grab the phone, ready to switch it off, but Charles stopped her hand.


    Breathing heavily, he took the phone from Evelyn and answered. Before he could say a word, Dahlia''s frantic voice came through. "Charles... What should I do? Sandy might have been scarred by her fall in the water today. She''s been having nightmares and crying for you. I can''t soothe her. I want to take her to the hospital, but the rain is pouring down... What should I do?"


    Her voice was panicked, seemingly


    at her wit''s end, but her expression was a different story-fierce and twisted. Right now, she''s gripping the phone tightly with a gaze full malice. It was as if she wanted to obliterate Evelyn entirely. She he


    who


    on


    hadn''t


    expected Evelyn to actually be seducing Charles. Dahlia


    remembered what she had heard over the phone and burned with anger. Evelyn must have been keeping Charles from answering her calls on purpose.


    Dahlia''s cold eyes nced at Sandy, who was sitting on the bed and joining in with soft sobs. Sandy''s small frame shivered, and then she cried out heart-wrenchingly, "Daddy, where are you? Daddy, I am so scared. Daddy... I want my daddy..."


    "Charles..." Dahlia''s voice was even more frantic and helpless. "Can youe over? I really don''t know what to do."


    "Don''t worry. I''ll be right there," Charles reassured. His hand stopped, and the desire in his eyes faded, rity taking its ce. He hung up the phone and got up from Evelyn without hesitation.


    Evelyn tried to pull him back, but Charles caught her hand and gently pushed it away. She fell back onto the couch, knowing she couldn''t stop him. However, her goal was met.


    She sat quietly, watching Charles


    stride to the wardrobe, grab a clean set of clothes, and quickly change He walked out of the bedroom


    briskly, not sparing her anothe


    nce. This scene was a rey of every previous departure.


    Evelyn didn''t watch him go; instead, she gazed out at the storm raging outside the window. Soon, the sound of the engine roared amidst the thunderstorm, gradually fading into the distance.

 Chapter 71

    Charles had left.


    This was a man who could drop everything for Dahlia and her daughter.


    Evelyn''s lips curled into a cold smile as she anticipated the day Charles would finally see the true colors of the woman and daughter he cherished so much.


    Evelyn stretched and headed back into the bathroom. Ten minutester, she emerged, fresh and wrapped in a towel. She grabbed some clothes from the dryer, changed, and went downstairs to grab a drink of water.


    After finishing her water, Evelyn didn''t feel sleepy at all. Since she didn''t have any mtonin to help her sleep, she decided to check out the gym instead.


    As she walked down the long corridor and turned the corner, she spotted a familiar figure standing nearby. It was Carmen engrossed in a phone call with her back turned.


    Carmen had watched Charles drive off earlier, and the tension in her expression had finally eased. "Well, you''ve got some talent. I''ll give you that! Dahlia, I dropped fifty million just to get you that top spot and a smooth entry into Carlisle Jewels. I''veid the path for you. Don''t let me down!"


    Then, Carmen ended the call and gracefully headed towards the gym, where she had her nightly workout routine.


    Evelyn stayed hidden in the shadows, her eyes wide with shock as she watched the rain pour down outside. She hadn''t expected to find out that Charles didn''t snatch her first-ce prize in the jewelry contest for Dahlia.


    She remembered the day of the designpetition award ceremony. When she was


    backstage, Sena tried to rile


    up


    and imed that Charles loved Dahlia enough to break his own rules for her. Charles had shown up out of the blue, and as he was about to enter the makeup room, she noticed Dahlia and Sena''s expressions change drastically.


    At the time, she was preupied with worries about Charlie''s grave and didn''t give it much thought. Now, it seemed obvious that Dahlia and Sena were terrified of Charles overhearing them, which exined their intense reactions. After all, Charles hated anything


    underhanded. If he ever found out


    about this...


    In the dim light of night, Evelyn''s lips curved into a subtle smile.


    It was Evelyn''s first day at Carlisle Jewels, and to avoid traffic, she took the subway. On the way, she bumped into Grace, the girl who hade in third ce. They walked into thepany together,ughing and chatting.


    As they waited by the elevator,


    Dahlia walked in from outside. When


    she spotted Evelyn, she pulled out her phone while striding over. "Charles, I''m at the elevator now. Don''t worry, I know you''ve got my back. Okay, I''ll stop now. I''m in the elevator. Drive safe."


    With a sweet smile, she hung up as the elevator doors slid open. The three of them stepped inside, standing at the back. Grace looked at Dahlia with sparkling eyes of admiration and asked, "Ms. Dahlia, did Mr. Jenkins bring you here?" "Yeah," Dahlia replied with a smile, her happiness radiating without a word.


    "Ms. Dahlia, you and Mr. Jenkins seem to have such a great rtionship," Grace gushed, starry-eyed and clearly impressed.


    Dahlia just smiled, her silence speaking volumes, as her gaze shifted provocatively toward Evelyn.

 Chapter 72

    The trio walked into thepany together and were greeted by Taylor''s assistant, Amanda. Her eyes scanned their name badges, finallynding on Evelyn. She gave her a once-over with an unreadable expression and said, "So, you''re Evelyn. The one Ms. Taylor is fond of."


    "I''m thankful for her appreciation. I''ll do my best not to disappoint her," Evelyn responded humbly.


    Amanda''s expression remained unchanged. She was a bit chilly as she remarked, "Let''s see if you can make it through the probation period before you start making promises."


    Dahlia chimed in with a friendly tone, "Hey Amanda, I know you''re a coffee aficionado. Charles asked me to bring you some special brew to try. If you like it, I''ll bring more next time." She pulled out a beautifully packaged box of coffee from her bag and handed it to Amanda. Amanda didn''t react to Charles'' name immediately, but her eyes lit up at the sight of the brand on the coffee box. As a coffee lover, she recognized the Jenkins family special blend-something you couldn''t easily buy. She''d been wanting to try it for ages.


    There were whispers around the office about Dahlia having some vague connection with the Jenkins family. Amanda thought it was just gossip, but now it seemed there was some truth to it. Her demeanor towards Dahlia warmed considerably, and her tone softened. "Please thank Mr. Jenkins for me."


    "Sure thing," Dahlia replied with a smile.


    After tucking the coffee away, Amanda introduced the three to the rest of the department. She highlighted Dahlia''s aplishments. "Meet Dahlia, the first-ce winner of the recent jewelry design contest. Let''s give her a warm wee." Amanda started the apuse, and the others joined in.


    Then, she casually introduced the others. "And this is Evelyn and Grace."


    "Hi, everyone. I''m Evelyn," Evelyn greeted sincerely, her eyes full of earnestness.


    "Wee! I''ve seen your work and am a big fan," said one colleague. Thanks to Taylor, she had seen the top contest entries.


    "Same here. I think you have a bright future," another added.


    "Thank you," Evelyn replied, grateful for the warm reception.


    As the attention shifted towards


    Evelyn, Dahlia discreetly sent a text. Not long after, the receptionist brought several delivery guys to the door, carrying coffee and desserts from a famous brand.


    "Is Miss Dahlia here? Your coffee and dessert order has arrived."


    Dahlia looked genuinely surprised. "I didn''t order anything."


    "It was Mr. Jenkins who ced the order for you."


    Dahlia''s face turned beet red at the mention of Mr. Jenkins, and she hurried over to sign for the delivery.


    Amanda promptly rallied Evelyn and Grace. "Come on, lend a hand with these."


    "Wow, these desserts are so pricey. I usually can''t justify buying them," Grace whispered as she helped carry the treats to the break room.


    "If you like them, help yourself to moreter," Dahlia said with a sweet smile, blushing as she invited everyone, "It''s Mr. Jenkins'' treat for you all."


    "Thank you, Mr. Jenkins, and thank


    you, Dahlia," the group echoed, understanding the gesture. It was clear this was more about showing support for Dahlia than anything elsedt was a move to ensure she felt wee and looked after.


    A favor from Mr. Jenkins wasn''t something anyone would forget easily.


    Evelyn''s eyes shed with a brief coldness. Charles was certainly pulling out all the stops to make sure Dahlia didn''t face any hurdles at work.


    ...


    After assigning tasks to the three


    interns, Amanda headed back to her office to tidy up before heading to the neighboring city to meet Taylor. Meanwhile, armed with coffee and desserts, the colleagues returned to


    their desks to resume work belongs to


    Evelyn made her way to the archive room to organize magazines and files.

 Chapter 73

    Dahlia tailed her inside, and as soon as the door clicked shut, her demeanor shiftedpletely. Her cheerful smile vanished and was reced by a stormy expression as she red at Evelyn, recalling the previous night with a face that could curdle milk. Last night, when she called Charles, the sound of hisbored breathing, thick with desire, was unmistakable over the phone. He was wound tighter than a bowstring, ready to snap. She''d interrupted him using Sandy as an excuse, leaving him high and dry. An unsatisfied man, with just a nudge, could turn into a wolf. So, she had slipped into a provocative nightgown beneath her clothes, nning to stir things up.


    Charles had brought a doctor to check on Sandy to ensure she was alright. Once the doctor left, Dahlia feigned worry over Sandy. She was standing there in a nearly see-through nightgown before Charles and acted oblivious to her loosened belt. Confident in her allure, she believed no man could resist her, least of all Charles, who was already on edge. But instead of reacting, Charles merely nced away, focusing on Sandy, and said in a low voice, "You''ll catch a cold in that."


    Dahlia couldn''t wrap her head around it-Charles clearly loved her, yet he never made a move. But when he''s with Evelyn... The thought drove Dahlia into a jealous rage.


    "Evelyn, you know Charles loves me, yet you keep throwing yourself at him. How can you be so shameless?" she fumed.


    Evelyn''s face darkened, and she unexpectedly raised her hand. Remembering past encounters, Dahlia flinched, shielding her face. Unexpectedly, Evelyn didn''t p her. Instead, she ced the magazine back on the shelf and stared calmly at the enraged Dahlia, tauntingly saying, "What now? Feeling cornered like an animal?"


    Hitting a sore spot, Dahlia instinctively retorted, "Why would I be desperate..."


    But in the next second, she realized what she had just admitted that she was the animal!


    "Evelyn, how dare you call me an animal!"


    Furious, Dahlia''s eyes were wide with anger as she lifted her hand to p Evelyn across the face.


    Evelyn caught her wrist with a grip like steel, her eyes suddenly fierce. In that moment of Dahlia''s hesitation, Evelyn pinned her against the bookshelf, her gaze icy as she said, "Did I call you an animal? You


    to the


    wish. That would be an insult


    animal! You''re worse than an animal."


    Dahlia seethed, her chest heaving as she struggled. "Let go of me!"


    In order not to escte things, Evelyn released her grip. She gave Dahlia a cold stare before returning to her tasks. Dahlia''s eyes burned with anger as she stumbled back, trying to put some distance between them.


    "Evelyn, isn''t your shamelessness


    just a ploy to win over Charles? But


    what makes you think you can


    in olddy who might not see


    tomorrow''s sunrise? Once she''s gone, what will you do then


    Before Dahlia could finish, Evelyn hurled the magazine, smacking Dahlia right on the mouth.


    "Evelyn!" Dahlia yelped, tears springing to her eyes from the pain.


    Evelyn advanced on her, eyes cold as ice, and Dantia retreated. Picking up the fallen magazine, Evelyn sneered, "Don''t worry, Dahlia. Grandma''s in top shape! Dr. Nelson checked her yesterday; she''s easily got a couple more decades in her. As for you, you''ll be past your prime by then. Do you really think Charles will still want you?"

 Chapter 74

    After finishing her words, she set the magazine aside,pletely ignoring Dahlia, before pulling the door open and striding out. Inside, Dahlia was boiling with anger. ''Evelyn, do you seriously think you can snatch Charles away from me? Not a chance!'' It wasn''t long before Dahlia calmed herself down. She opened the door with a smile stered on her face and walked out. She nced over at Evelyn, who was busy at the printer, and casually asked, "Is anyone free tonight?" Someone piped up jokingly, "Dahlia, are you treating us to dinner?"


    With a grin, Dahlia replied, "Yep, Charles called earlier. He wants to celebrate my first day at work by taking everyone out to dinner at Debbie''s Garden. Is everyone free tonight?"


    "Absolutely, we''re in!"


    "Debbie''s Garden! I''d brave a storm for that! I''ve heard their food is top-notch. Thanks to you, Dahlia, we get to try it tonight."


    Even though her colleagues were teasing, their excitement was genuine. Debbie''s Garden, owned by Jenkins Enterprises, was the Capital''s most prestigious restaurant, where only the elite dine.


    "Don''t hold back! You can order whatever you like tonight." Dahlia chuckled though her eyes were fixed on Evelyn.


    "That''s the future Mrs. Jenkins! So generous!" her colleagues teased.


    "Come on, don''t joke about that," Dahlia said, blushing but not denying her connection with Charles.


    Before they knew it, the workday had ended, and everyone headed to Debbie''s Garden with Dahlia. The ce boasted an ancient, majestic exterior and a serene, elegant interior-a charm that money couldn''t buy.


    As soon as Dahlia walked in, a waiter greeted her with respect, "Ms. Dahlia, the Diamond Room is ready for you."


    The mention of the Diamond Room left her colleagues in awe. They knew it was Charles'' private room, not open to the public.


    "Please fetch some wine from Charles'' cer and bring it to the room," Dahlia instructed the waiter with an air of authority.


    "Yes, Ms. Dahlia."


    Dahlia cast a sidelong nce at Evelyn, her expression smug. Evelyn met her gaze with a stic smile, clearly unfazed by Dahlia''s unting.


    Once inside the private room, Dahlia asked the waiter to bring extra menus. "Please order whatever you want, everyone."


    Seeing Evelyn hadn''t chosen anything, Dahlia handed her a menu. "Evelyn, you haven''t been here before, right? Don''t be shy with me and Charles. Just order whatever you like."


    Evelyn epted the menu calmly and began selecting her favorite dishes. Dahlia clenched her teeth in frustration.


    The cold appetizers arrived, presented beautifully and bursting with vor. The wine, worth tens of thousands, was brought in by the bottle. Her colleaguesvished praise on the selection. Dahlia basked in thepliments. "Please, enjoy."


    "Dahlia, isn''t Mr. Jenkins joining us? Should we wait for him?" someone asked, hesitating to start eating.


    "No need. Charles messaged me. He doesn''t want to make everyone feel awkward by being here. He''lleter to pick me up."


    The mention of going home together


    carried a hint of intimacy. Under envious nces, Dahlia, as the host, was the first to dig in. The dining atmosphere quickly turned lively.


    Evelyn, however, was distracted. Her eyes were frequently checking her phone. Suddenly, a message popped up. After reading it, she nced at Dahlia with a sly smile and stood up, "I''m heading to the restroom


    That smile sent a shiver down Dahlia''s spine. After Evelyn left, Dahlia followed suit. "I need the restroom too, excuse me." She noticed Evelyn wasn''t heading towards the restroom but... the main entrance. Was she nning to meet Charles?


    Dahlia hurried after her. She caught up in a small garden and grabbed Evelyn''s wrist, whispering, "Evelyn, what are you up to?" Evelyn shook off her hand with a coldugh. "Why are you so nosy?"


    "You''re just trying to meet Charles and seduce him, aren''t you? Evelyn, don''t bother. Charles only has eyes for me."


    "Oh, really? Are you sure?" Evelyn''s gaze was mocking.


    Dahlia felt uneasy but insisted, "Of course!"


    "Ha." Evelyn chuckled coldly.


    "Dahlia, I overheard Carmen''s call to youst night. What would Charles think if he knew Carmen paid fifty million for your first-ce prize?" Dahlia''s eyes widened in shock. Evelyn had heard that!


    She quickly regainedposure. "So what? You think Charles would believe you?"


    "Of course he won''t believe me." Evelyn''s voice dropped, a twinge of bitterness in her tone. If only Charles had a shred of faith in her, she


    wouldn''t need to go to such lengths.


    Seeing Evelyn''s expression, Dahlia''s smile grew smug. "I figured as much..."


    But before she could finish, Evelyn''s lips curled into a slight smile, interrupting her, "But..."


    Evelyn''s gaze shifted past Dahlia,nding on the gazebo just a few steps away.


    Dahlia''s heart dropped. She turned to see Charles emerging from the shadows, tall and imposing. Her heart skipped a beat. She had walked right into Evelyn''s trap!


    Dahlia was frozen in ce and met Charles'' cold stare, her heart pounding with fear. This was the first time he''d ever looked at her this way.


    In a desperate move, Dahlia rushed forward, clutching Charles'' wrist, tears welling up. "Charles, please, let me exin."


    An intimidating chill radiated from Charles. His face was stern, and he was clearly furious.

 Chapter 75

    However, he didn''t brush Dahlia''s hand away. He was waiting for her to exin herself. Evelyn smirked, a hint of scorn ying on her lips. Was this the proof of his love? Dahlia practically admitted to using the shady tactics he despised, but Charles was still willing to hear


    her out. And what about Evelyn? With just Dahlia''s word, Charles was ready to believe the worst of her.


    Memories flickered through Evelyn''s mind like a slideshow. When she didn''t say anything, it meant she was guilty. When she tried to exin, he would use her of just making excuses. If she lost her cool, she would bebeled as going crazy. A wave of grievance and sadness washed over her, leaving a bitter taste. But all she managed was a cold chuckle.


    Charles heard it and nced up at her; his eyes narrowed, and a flicker of danger danced in the depths. It felt like a warning. Evelyn''s smile turned colder. The answer was clear. She had lost. Without lingering, she turned and walked back.


    She hadn''t banked on this mess making Charles see Dahlia differently, but she had hoped it might give him pause. Evelyn was back at the private dining room door in the blink of an eye. She pushed the door open and returned to her seat, faceposed. She picked up her ss of red wine and took several long sips, trying to wash away the bitterness wing at her throat.


    "Evelyn, Dahlia also went to the restroom. Didn''t you run into each other?" Grace, sitting beside her, asked.


    "No," Evelyn replied with a smile, picking up her fork and focusing on her meal. She was careful not to let her emotions slip in front of her colleagues.


    "It''s been ages, and Dahlia''s still not back. You think something might''ve happened?" Grace fretted.


    "What are you on about? This is Mr. Jenkins'' ce. How could anything happen to Dahlia, the futuredy of the house?"


    As they spoke, the door swung open again. Evelyn, along with everyone else, looked up.


    Not only Dahlia but Charles, too, stood at the door. Dahlia was cozily linked with Charles, and their closeness clearly showed no signs of tension Charles'' presence alone was proof of where he stood. Dahlia''s lips curled into a smile as she Shot Evelyn a knowing look, triumph flickering in her eyes. Her slightly raised chin seemed to say: Evelyn, you tried to expose me to Charles, but so what? Do you think he''d be mad at me? Principles mean nothing when true love is involved.


    "Mr. Jenkins," everyone in the room stood up immediately, greeting Charles with nervous respect, except Evelyn, who remained seated and unmoving. She lowered her gaze, masking the coldness and mockery in her eyes, and took her time


    sipping her soup.


    "Hello," Charles replied coolly, his gaze sweeping over the room before settling on Evelyn. His stare was hard to ignore, but she did and focused on her meal.


    Dahlia, clinging to Charles'' arm, beamed at everyone. "Sorry, Charles came early to pick me up."


    "Please, carry on. Charles has already made arrangements. Order whatever you like to eat or drink! It''s on him, no need to be shy."


    Charles didn''t say much. He just nodded, silently endorsing Dahlia''s arrangements, giving her the spotlight. The crowd''s envy of Dahlia grew stronger. "Thank you, Mr. Jenkins," they chorused. Charles nodded again, keeping it brief.

 Chapter 76

    Dahlia shot Evelyn a nce, fully aware Evelyn couldn''t hold her liquor well.


    "Hey everyone, don''t worry about the bill today. This round''s on me."


    "


    Then, she let Charles'' hand slip from her grasp and made her way back to her seat, grabbing a bottle to pour herself a full ss. Evelyn remained still, not moving an inch.


    Dahlia''s gazended on Evelyn, and soon enough, so did their colleagues''. Feeling the pressure, Evelyn reluctantly picked up her ss and took a small, half-hearted sip. She wasn''t much for drinking and the ss she had earlier had already gone to her head. Dahlia downed her drink in one swift motion. As she set the ss down, she stumbled slightly and ended up in Charles'' arms, unsteady on her feet.


    She leaned into him, massaging her temple with a hand, and looked up at him with misty eyes. Her voice was soft and inviting. "Charles, I''m feeling a bit dizzy. Let''s head home."


    The words "let''s head home" made it clear just how close they had be.


    "Sure," Charles replied.


    He wrapped a supportive arm around her waist, guiding her out of the room. As he turned, his gaze lingered on Evelyn once more.


    She kept her head down, never meeting his eyes.


    Charles'' expression grew more intense.


    ...


    Once Charles was out the door, everyone seemed to breathe easier. Even though they were curious about such a big shot, being in the same room with Charles had felt like a weight pressing down on them. They were finally rxed and started drinking more freely.


    Knowing her limits, Evelyn mostly stayed with the food, and no one pushed her to drink more.


    Grace nced over at Evelyn. She stood up, poured herself a brimming ss, and raised it to the group. "I''m thrilled to be part of Carlisle Jewels and work alongside all of you. I look forward to your guidance. Cheers!" Then, she knocked back her drink.


    Everyone turned their attention to Evelyn. Unlike Grace, she only filled her ss halfway with the little wine left.''m looking forward to learning from you all."


    She finished her drink, feeling even more tipsy but keeping it under wraps.


    The night was winding down, and soon, it was time to leave. Since they''d nned to drink, no one had driven to the venue.


    Once outside, they hailed and shared cabs. Those heading in the same direction left together in one car.


    "I''m heading the same way as you," Grace said, sounding a bit out of it, as she opened thest cab full of female colleagues.


    This left Evelyn with three male colleagues hanging back.


    Once inside, Grace rolled down the window. "Take care of Evelyn for me and make sure she gets home safe."


    "Don''t worry," one of them replied as the three men exchanged a quick nce.


    "Thank you, but my friend''s just around the corner and will pick me up," Evelyn said, which led them to


    car and drove off.


    back off. They hopped in


    Evelyn breathed a sigh of relief. She knew she needed to find somewhere to sober up and fast.


    ...


    In the parking lot, as Dahlia and Charles reached the car, Dahlia leaned against Charles, almost like she was made of water. Aiden promptly stepped forward to open the door.


    Dahlia climbed in first. With the car''s heater on, she immediately shrugged off her coat, murmuring, "It''s so hot."


    She was clearly tipsy. Amid soft moans, she unbuttoned three


    Sof her shirt, revealing a


    swath of her pale skin tinged with the blush of alcohol.


    She slumped against the seat, looking like she was inviting Charles closer. She was ying her cards, drawing Charles in.

 Chapter 77

    "Take her home," Charles'' deep, husky voice resonated from outside the car. Then, the door clicked shut.


    Dahlia, who had been waiting with her eyes half-closed, expected Charles to make his move. She snapped her eyes wide open, where not a hint of drunkenness remained. She couldn''t believe her eyes as she looked at the empty back seat. In a sh, she sat up, swung the car door open, and grabbed Charles by the wrist. Her eyes, glistening with unshed tears, locked onto his. "Charles, where are you going? Aren''t you taking me home?" she asked softly. Charles didn''t say a word. His gaze was icy as he looked at her, and that look made Dahlia''s breath catch. The words she wanted to say were stuck in her throat. She knew Charles too well and understood what that look meant he was angry.


    She had thought that Charles agreeing to go with her to the private room meant he loved her enough to disregard his principles for her, that her deceitful win wouldn''t matter to him. But she was wrong.


    Panic bubbled up inside Dahlia. She knew that Charles'' love was her only anchor. Instinctively, she tightened her grip on his hand. Her eyes turned red, a mist of tears forming, as she looked up at him with a pleading gaze. "Charles..."


    He loved her so much. Surely, he couldn''t bear to see her unhappy. However, Charles didn''t give her a chance to soften him. He brushed off her hand and walked away with determined strides.


    ---


    Evelyn had learned about Debbie''s Garden after Charles and Dahlia got together. Sena was aware of Evelyn''s feelings for Charles. Once Dahlia told Sena that Charles had built Debbie''s Garden for her, Sena confronted Evelyn, and told her that even before finding Dahlia, Charles had already created this ce for her, showcasing how much he loved Dahlia.


    Evelyn had never been to this ce before and was unfamiliar with it. Her eyes scanned the area and spotted a small garden with a washbasin nearby. She walked over and turned on the cold water, sshing it onto her face. In the freezing weather, she shivered. Her hands were numb, but the alcohol''s hold on her didn''t loosen. If anything, the cold air made her dizziness worse.


    She hadn''t expected thest drink Grace gave her to hit so hard. Evelyn shook her head, trying to clear her vision. Her mind was alert, but her feet felt unsteady, making it impossible for her to hail a cab. Leaning against the washbasin, she eyed a resting chair not far away and silently calcted her steps.


    With a determined nod, she stood straight, lifted her chin, and ced her hands at her sides. Silently, she counted, "One." She took a step, nting her foot firmly. "Two." Another step, steady.


    This scene caught Charles'' attention


    from a few steps away, his cold


    gaze softening with a hint of


    amusement. He walked toward her Evelyn was lost in her world, didn''t notice him and continued at a steady pace. As she was about to take the eighth step, a figure suddenly appeared in front of her,


    and she bumped directly into a


    warm chest.


    Her nose hit the man''s firm chest hard. "Ouch!" Evelyn inhaled sharply from the pain, tears welling up in her eyes. She covered her nose, frowning, and looked up at the unexpected figure, only to find herself staring into familiar eyes. It was Charles.


    Evelyn froze for a moment. Wasn''t


    he supposed to be taking Dahlia home? Why was he here? She didn''t dwell on it. She didn''t want to deal


    with Charles. His unwavering


    tolerance for Dahlia and Dahline.ne


    smug look made her path for


    revenge feel impossible. The alcohol muddled her thoughts, amplifying her sense of helplessness.


    She didn''t even want to speak and was ready to walk past him. But as she moved, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her back into his embrace. Her cheek pressed against his chest again. Dizziness washed over her, and her brow furrowed. She instinctively resisted, one hand pushing against his chest, trying to create space. Her other hand wed at his arm around her waist. Her voice was cold. "Let go."


    Charles didn''t release her. Evelyn''s frown deepened. "Charles, aren''t you afraid someone might see us?"


    They had been together for five years. Charles had never taken her out in public. It was clear he didn''t want their rtionship known. While with Dahlia...


    "What''s there to be afraid of?" Charles replied casually, his gaze dropping to Evelyn in his arms. She was ring at him. But under the dim light, her eyes, blurred by drunkenness and tears, seemed more inviting than angry.


    Charles'' Adam''s apple bobbed, his


    gaze darkening with desire. His arm around Evelyn''s waist tightened, pulling her closer. Their bodies were pressed tightly together from the waist down. They were so close that they could feel the contours of each


    other''s bodies through their clothes.


    He leaned in, and his upper body pressed against hers. His face was near hers; his lips were almost touching hers. His breath felt warm on her face, and his voice was a husky whisper, "You know you can''t handle your drinks. Why did you drink so much?" Evelyn''s gaze turned colder, her tone sharp. "What''s it to you?" Now, he was scolding her after she got drunk. Back in the private room, when Dahlia suddenly proposed a toast, he didn''t say a word to stop it.


    Evelyn tried to struggle. But, in an attempt to avoid touching Charles, she had leaned back so far that she ended up in an awkward S-shape. Now, caught in his arms, she felt like prey ensnared in a trap, unable to break free.

 Chapter 78

    As Charles drew near, his strong masculine scent surrounded her, mingling with the perfume Dahlia wore. The mix created an ambiguous aroma, both intriguing and slightly nauseating. "Ugh..." Evelyn felt her stomach churn.


    "Evelyn, don''t you dare!" Charles'' face shifted instantly, recalling thest time Evelyn had drunkenly vomited on him. He quickly let go and stepped aside.


    Evelyn managed to hold it together. She took the chance to move forward and plop down on a bench, leaning back against a pir to steady her dizzy head. Ignoring Charles, she pulled out her phone and opened a ride-hailing app, ready to call a car. Charles stood by, his gaze unreadable as he watched her.


    A momentter, he took out his phone, tapped it a few times, and then put it away. Just as Evelyn was about to request a ride, a notification from her banking app popped up on her screen. She tapped on it and saw a transfer from Charles. Evelyn''s eyebrows knitted together as she stared at the long string of zeros. What on earth was this?


    Her alcohol-clouded brain took a moment to catch up. Then Charles'' deep voice broke through above her. "The prize money for first ce in the designpetition. I''ve doubled it for you."


    Evelyn''s gaze on the numbers turned icy. After a few seconds, she looked up, her smile not reaching her eyes. "Is this hush money?"


    Her smile was all sarcasm, not an ounce of warmth. Charles watched her, his brows barely furrowing, not bothering to deny it.


    Evelyn''s smile widened, the mockery in her eyes more pronounced. So, he was admitting it. It was no surprise he was here instead of taking Dahlia home. He came to keep her quiet with cash. Charles had been with her for five years, providing just a modest monthly allowance for her and Charlie, yet he was now throwing around a big sum to protect Dahlia. How... generous.


    Evelyn felt as if her chest was stuffed full of cotton. It was stifling and ufortable. But she wasn''t about to refuse the money. After all the times she and Charlie had struggled, Evelyn knew that pride doesn''t pay the bills when you''re short on cash.


    When she epted the money, Charles'' brows rxed a bit. He bent down, offering a hand. "Let me drive you home."


    "No thank you." Evelyn brushed his hand away, staggering to her feet. She didn''t want to spend another second with him. Still tipsy, her steps were unsteady, and she wobbled, struggling to keep her bnce. "Careful." Charles stepped forward to steady her.


    Evelyn didn''t want his help. Her hand moved faster than her thoughts, swatting his hand away again. "I said, don''t touch me."


    Already unsteady, the force of her swat tipped her off bnce, sending her stumbling backward.


    "Ssh-"


    Evelyn tumbled into the shallow man-madeke behind her. The water only reached her waist, and she wasn''t hurt, but she was soaked. In the biting cold of deep winter, with temperatures below freezing, Evelyn felt the chill shoot up from her feet, freezing her limbs and making her shiver uncontrobly.


    Her lips trembled, teeth chattering as she stood up from the water. A gust of cold wind blew, clearing a bit of her drunken haze and bringing rity to her mind.

 Chapter 79

    Charles was just about to dive into the water when he noticed Evelyn standing up on her own. With a stern look, he firmly grasped her wrist. After a gentle pull, he lifted her out of theke. He quickly removed her coat and wrapped her in his own to shield her from the biting wind. Surrounded once again by Charles'' familiar scent, Evelyn instinctively resisted.


    "Do you still want to cause a scene?" Charles tightened his grip around her waist, pulling her closer as he looked down at her. "Are you trying to call in sick on your second day at work?" Evelyn fell silent. Charles scooped her up and strode out of the garden. The cold weather had left the garden deserted, but the entrance was bustling with activity. Evelyn didn''t want to be seen, so she pulled Charles'' coat over her face. Charles noticed this small gesture, and his expression soured.


    The manager had already arranged for a car. Charles carried Evelyn inside. As soon as they were seated, Evelyn moved away, pressed herself against the window, and instructed the driver, "Maple Garden, please." She turned her gaze outside, clearly avoiding any interaction with Charles.


    "Turn the heat up all the way," Charles instructed the driver after a cool nce at the gap between them.


    "Yes, Mr. Jenkins," the driver responded promptly, cranking up the heat. Evelyn''s chilled body slowly regained warmth, but her damp clothes still left her shivering.


    Charles raised his hand and slid up the partition between them. The sound made Evelyn tense up instantly, and she looked at Charles warily. "What are you nning to do?"


    The car moved through the traffic,


    dimly lit. The streetlights outside cast fleeting shadows across Charles'' sharply defined features. He watched her and suddenly leaned in close. Their bodies drew near His nose almost brushed against hers, and their breaths mingled, his warm breath caressing her face.


    Evelyn''s breath caught, and the car felt even warmer. Annoyed, she muttered, "Charles!" while pushing against his chest to keep him at a distance.


    As Charles reached for her leg, she instinctivelyshed out with her other foot, aiming a kick at him. He caught her foot smoothly, and under her fiery gaze, he slid her shoe and soaked sock off. As he held her ankle, his dark eyes locked on hers, his voice low and husky in the quiet car. "What did you think was doing?"


    Evelyn was stunned. She had assumed he was about to make an inappropriate move.


    In her moment of surprise, Charles removed her other wet shoe and sock. Evelyn''s guard dropped a bit. But just as she rxed, she felt his hand at her waistband. As her body tensed up again, his fingers swiftly undid the button of her pants Realizing his intention, Evelyn immediately grabbed his wrist, stopping him with a firm, "Charles, that''s not necessary!"


    "They''re wet. Take them off!" Charles'' actions were as assertive as his words, leaving Evelyn little room to argue.


    "I can do it myself," Evelyn insisted, gripping Charles'' hand to prevent him from going any further. The two remained locked in a standoff.

 Chapter 80

    Charles'' gaze, as deep and chilly as a winterke, lingered on Evelyn''s lips. He noted how they had turned a frosty shade of purple before he finally let her go. "Turn around!" Evelyn shot him a frosty look.


    Charles chuckled quietly, amusement dancing in his eyes as he took in Evelyn''s serious demeanor. His look seemed to say, "I''ve seen and touched every inch of you, so what''s the point of turning around?"


    Evelyn didn''t say a word; she just kept her eyes on Charles until he eventually turned his back. Only then did she start peeling off her drenched jeans. She was still sneaking nces at him at first, but seeing his back gave her the confidence to continue. The jeans clung stubbornly to her skin, and as she bent to wrestle with them, her coat slipped from her shoulders.


    Unbeknownst to her, the car window offered a reflection of her. Even blurred, Charles was all too familiar with the silhouette of Evelyn''s body. Through the foggy ss, he caught glimpses of her, and memories flooded back of Evelyn''s long, pale legs wrapped around his waist countless times. Soft andpliant, Evelyn would let him mold her into any position he desired,pletely at his mercy.


    Charles'' eyes darkened, his desire barely restrained as his Adam''s apple bobbed. His look turned predatory as if he could consume her whole in the next moment. Just as Evelyn managed to tug the soaked jeans from her legs, she sensed something and nced up quickly. Seeing Charles still turned away, she thought she must have imagined it. But as she sat up, her eyes caught something in the window reflection-her own wide eyes and another hungry and intent pair-Charles''.


    Their eyes met in the reflection, and Evelyn''s eyes sparked with anger. In his desireden gaze, Charles'' eyes also held a hint of amusement. He turned around leisurely, his handsome face unruffled, his gaze as frank and unapologetic as ever. He had never bothered to hide his desire for her.


    Evelyn burned with frustration. The thought of having stripped down to her underwear in front of Charles was infuriating. Asking him to turn around looked like a joke. She flung her wet jeans at him in exasperation. "Charles, have you no shame?"


    Charles caught the jeans easily and tossed them aside, his gaze returning to Evelyn, darkening as he recalled the brief glimpse of her bare skin. Evelyn, following his gaze,


    realized her coat had loosened


    revealing a swath of her skin. She quickly pulled it tight, trying to shield herself from his bold stare. But the coat could only cover so much, leaving her ankles and feet exposed to the cold air and making her toes curl from the chill. Her gaze remained defensive.


    Charles'' eyes swept over her, and he reached for a nket, tossing it over Evelyn to envelop herpletely. The warmth wrapped around her, gradually thawing her from the cold. The whole ordeal had left Evelyn exhausted. She fought to stay awake, but the alcohol still buzzed in her system, making her head heavy. Unable to resist, she drifted off to sleep.


    The car continued on its way. A bump in the road made her head knock against the window. A steady hand caught her head just in time. Evelyn''s head rested against Charles'' palm, and with a gentle nudge, he guided her to lean on his shoulder. He pressed a button to raise the partition, signaling the driver to slow down. The road ahead smoothed out.


    Evelyn slept deeply, leaning on Charles'' shoulder. When she woke up, she realized they hadn''t returned to Maple Garden but instead had


    arrived at Oakwood Manor, where et


    arles


    she and Charlie had spent five years. Charles was carrying her into the living room. As she stirred, he noticed she was awake. He noticed she wanted to get down, so he set her gently on her feet. "Go upstairs and have a hot bath," he suggested.


    Evelyn didn''t reply or look his way and just headed upstairs. She didn''t bathe. Instead, she went straight to the master bedroom''s closet, locking the door behind her. She tossed Charles'' coat onto the floor and changed into clothes she had left behind. Once dressed, she emerged from the bedroom.


    Before heading downstairs, she


    couldn''t resist going into Charlie''s room. As she pushed the door open, an overwhelming wave of emotion hit her, and her eyes welled up. Her gaze lingered lovingly over the room that bore the strongest traces of her daughter''s life. She took it all in


    before finally turning to leave, but


    something caught her eye on


    Charlie''s desk.


    Charlie had always been short on people who truly loved her, and Evelyn had tried her best to make up for it by always being attentive to her daughter. She had bought and sorted all of Charlie''s things. She remembered what she had taken and left behind. Now, there was a new sketchbook on Charlie''s desk.


    Evelyn was sure it hadn''t been there before. She hurried over to the desk and immediately recognized the sketchbook. It was the first and only one Charles had given to Charlie. Charlie had cherished it so much she hadn''t dared to use it. Now, the packaging was gone, and it had clearly been used.


    When had Charlie opened it? Evelyn hadn''t known. Unable to resist, she sat down at the desk and gently flipped through the pages. Inside were drawings of her and Charles at the amusement park. Evelyn''s heart clenched painfully.

 Chapter 81

    ...


    Charles had let Charlie down that day, leaving her waiting in vain, so this was just Charlie''s imagination, which made it all the more painful for Evelyn. Every line and stroke felt like a dagger piercing her heart. The more Charlie anticipated, the more she cherished the thought and the more Evelyn''s heart ached for her. Evelyn couldn''t help but reflect on those long, chilling hours that Charlie had stood waiting, longing to see her dad, only to be met with disappointment. Before her passing, she realized she''d waited in vain for her father, who had instead spent the day at the amusement park with Sandy. That must have been gut-wrenching for Charlie. Tears blurred Evelyn''s vision as they streamed down her cheeks.


    After preparing hangover soup, Charles headed upstairs, only to find Evelyn missing from their bedroom. Spotting a sliver of light from Charlie''s room, he headed there and gently pushed the door open. Inside, Evelyn was seated quietly at Charlie''s desk, so lost in thought that she didn''t notice him.


    Charles walked over, ready to ask what had captured her attention so deeply. But before he could say a word, his eyes were drawn to the drawings on the desk. The first thing that caught his eye was the childlike handwriting. The writing was a bit messy, but each word was written with heartfelt care: " Heehee... Mommy was right. Daddy really is going to spend my birthday with just me. My wish is finallying true. I''m super happy."


    "Tomorrow, I''ll be the happiest kid in the world."


    Following these lines were several big smiley faces, radiating Charlie''s joy.


    Charles read these words, and memories came flooding back. He recalled Evelyn discussing Charlie''s birthday ns, his promise to her, and how Charlie had secretly called him that night. On the call, she cautiously asked with her gentle, sweet voice, "Daddy, Mommy said you''ll take me to the amusement park for my birthday. It''ll be just us. Is it true?"


    At first, Charles was a bit annoyed at the thought of it being just them, excluding Sandy. But when he heard his daughter''s tender voice, he pushed aside his irritation and replied, "Yes."


    Hearing his answer, Charlie couldn''t help but giggle with delight. She was so thrilled, and he found himself smiling as well.


    "Daddy, promise me there''s no backing out tomorrow," she said, trying to sound serious, but her voice couldn''t hide her excitement. She was just so adorable.


    However, despite their promise, he


    ended up letting Charlie down because of Sandy. Charles felt a swirl of emotions. His gaze then shifted to the drawing beneath the text. The drawing was simple but crafted with care. Simple stroke''s outlined two figures - Charlie and him. The scene was clearly an amusement park, showing him holding Charlie''s hand, lifting her up, and even Charlie riding on his shoulders, joyfully making a "yay" gesture.


    Different scenes all had one thing in


    -


    st happy.<pmon - Charlie''s bright smile. This was the amusement park visit Charlie had dreamed of. Just thinking about it made her so happy. These images were her most cherished hopes for her birthday. Charles could feel, through every line and stroke Charlie drew, just how much she had looked forward to that day.

 Chapter 82

    Charles felt a lump form in his throat. His thin lips quivered as he spoke in a raspy voice, "I''m sorry."


    He hadn''t realized that something as seemingly trivial as a trip to the amusement park could mean so much to Charlie.


    Evelyn heard the hoarseness and genuine regret in Charles'' voice and shut her eyes tightly. After a moment, she opened them, slowly turned her head, and red at Charles, her eyes red and swollen from crying. His eyes looked a bit red, too. She said with emphasis, "Sorry? Charles, your apologies are worthless!"


    Charles watched Evelyn, who was on the brink of breaking down. He remembered how Evelyn had pleaded with him for this chance, even going so far as to beg on her knees.


    Initially, he had no time to spare. Sandy was scheduled for surgery, and she was terrified. He had promised Sandy he would be by her side until it was over.


    When Evelyn first brought it up, he t-out refused, but he hadn''t expected Evelyn to be so desperate. In the end, he agreed, but he broke his promise anyway.


    "I was wrong, and I''ll make it up to Charlie." Charles'' voice softened.


    It was the first time he''d spoken to Evelyn in such a humble tone.


    Evelyn clenched her fists. She didn''t let up immediately but pressed further, "Make it up to me? How do you n on making it up to me? Do you realize how long Charlie waited for you at the amusement park that day? From morning till night. Over ten hours. "It was thirteen degrees below zero that day.


    "Charlie was just five. How could she handle that temperature? She stood there, stubbornly waiting for you in the biting cold.


    "And where were you?"


    Evelyn''s words were meant to deepen Charles'' guilt, but as she spoke, her tears started flowing again.


    Charles, too, was pulled into the


    memory by her words. He could almost envision Charlie standing in the amusement park, staring longingly towards the entrance and hoping he would show up.


    The lump in Charles'' throat grew, and he pushed down the difort in his chest, promising in a hushed voice, "Bring Charlie back home, and swear from now on, whenever she wants to go to the amusement park, I''ll be there with her.


    "Not just the amusement park-anything she wants. If I can make it happen, I will."


    Evelyn didn''t respond; she just kept her gaze on Charles. In that moment, she saw a flicker of remorse and regret in his eyes for their daughter. He wasn''t entirely devoid of feelings for her.


    Just earlier, she''d seen Charlie''s drawings, and her heart ached for her daughter. It felt so unfair.


    She''d heard his arrival but held all


    her resentment in check. She had deliberately let him see the


    drawings She wanted to know if he would remain cold and indifferent or be moved upon seeing Charlie''s drawings, which were filled with love for her irresponsible father.


    If he was moved, it meant he did care about Charlie. Then, she would tell him that Dahlia was the reason Charlie was gone. Would he choose Charlie, then? Maybe Charlie could find peace sooner.


    "Evelyn, tell me, where is Charlie?" Charles took Evelyn''s hand again, asking once more.


    Evelyn looked deep into his eyes, fighting back the storm inside her, and replied as calmly as she could, "If you truly want to see Charlie, I''ll take you to her right now."

 Chapter 83

    Once Evelyn finally gave in, Charles'' face softened. "Alright." He jumped up, pulling Evelyn to her feet, eager to head out. They made their way to the garage and climbed into the car. "Where to?" Charles asked as he helped Evelyn with her seatbelt.


    "I''ll guide you," she replied, hesitant to mention the cemetery, fearing he''d call her crazy like before.


    "Okay," he said, lost in the thought of seeing Charlie soon and not sweating the small stuff.


    As the car rolled out of the garage, silence filled the space between them. They were each lost in their own thoughts. Evelyn focused on the road, pointing out directions. Halfway through, Charles'' phone rang. It was Dahlia.


    Evelyn stiffened at the familiar ringtone, her eyes snapping to Charles. He met her icy gaze and knew she didn''t want him to answer. Hepromised and silenced the call, but it rang again instantly.


    As Charles moved to answer, Evelyn''s voice cut through the air, cold and firm. "Charles, this is yourst chance. Miss it, and you''ll never see Charlie again." She was betting on his choice. If he chose Dahlia now, she wouldn''t take him to Charlie. Charles frowned, hating to be threatened but also aching to see Charlie. Just as he was about to turn off his phone, a text popped up: [Charles, please, pick up. If you don''t, Sandy and I will be in danger.]


    The urgency in the message shifted his focus immediately. Ignoring Evelyn, he called back. Evelyn''s heart sank, feeling like a weight pressed down on her chest. The call connected, and Dahlia''s panicked voice filled the car. "Charles, help us." Her voice was loud enough for Evelyn to catch every word.


    "What''s going on?" Charles'' face hardened, his grip on the wheel tightening.


    "I don''t know who spilled about the jewelry contest''s insider scoop, but some guy''s gone crazy, using me of ruining his life. He wants to kill me!" Dahlia cried out.


    Evelyn, knowing Dahlia well, couldn''t help but scoff. Just that evening, she''d exposed Dahlia''s tactics in front of Charles. Only they were present. It was like she''d handed Dahlia the ammunition to scheme against her.


    As expected, Dahlia''s words had Charles shooting a deadly re at Evelyn. "Evelyn, is this what you wanted?" he used, his voice chilling.


    Again, a single word from Dahlia, and he was ready to me her. Evelyn stayed silent, and Charles'' tone grew icy. "You better hope Dahlia and Sandy are okay."


    Evelyn''s gaze was cold, seeing no trace of the softness or guilt he had once shown for Charlie. The moment Dahlia and Sandy were involved, Charlie was forgotten. Charlie had never been his priority.


    Evelyn couldn''t hold back a bitter


    enough. Time and again, it was always the same. She didn''t even want to exin herself anymore. She had to leave him to believe what he wanted. She felt ridiculous for ever hoping Charles would avenge Charlie if he knew the truth about Dahlia.


    Charles nced at her, still driving. "I said stop the car. I want to get out." Evelyn''s voice was edged with anger. She did not want to share the space with him any longer. When he didn''t stop, she reached for the


    wheel. But Charles swerved sharply, and the sudden movement jerked her back into the seat. Her head hit the door with a thud. "Ugh-" Evelyn''s pained cry was drowned out by ring horns.


    Charles was focused on reaching Dahlia and Sandy, and he mmed the elerator, heading for Greenrose. Evelyn leaned back in ker seat, dazed from the impact. soon arrived at Greenrose''s entrance. The gate recognized Charles'' car and allowed him in without hesitation as if he owned the ce.


    Evelyn was still dizzy when Charles pulled her out, his grip unyielding. She stumbled along and was dragged into the house. The front door was ajar. Inside, evidence of Charles'' life was everywhere. Unlike Oakwood Manor, this felt like his real home. Oakwood was just a retreat for his needs.


    From inside, Dahlia''s desperate cries echoed, "No, please, let my daughter go. Don''t hurt her, I''m begging you."


    Evelyn looked over to see Dahlia kneeling, disheveled and pleading. A few steps away stood a man with wild eyes and a knife, holding Sandy close. "You want to beg now? You thrive on deceit, and you deserve to die!" he yelled with madness in his eyes.

 Chapter 84

    Dahlia''s eyes were puffy and red from crying, her voice filled with desperation. "Please, just let my daughter go. We can talk about whatever you want. She''s innocent, I beg you. Don''t hurt her!" In a bid to convince the captor to release Sandy, Dahlia, right in front of Charles, suddenly dropped to her knees, bowing deeply.


    She kept bowing even when her forehead started bleeding. It was almost like she couldn''t feel the pain.


    Charles'' face changed drastically. He shook off Evelyn''s grip and rushed inside.


    Already feeling woozy, Evelyn stumbled and fell to the floor when Charles pushed her aside. She had to lean against the wall, and it took her a few seconds to shake off the dizziness and look up.


    From where shey, she could see the side of Dahlia''s face. Between her bows, Dahlia seemed to shoot a nce at the man holding Sandy. It wasn''t a look of fear or pleading, but like she was sending some kind of message...


    Evelyn blinked, unsure if she was seeing things right. Could Dahlia really be so desperate to frame Evelyn that she''d hurt her own daughter?


    Before Evelyn could get a better look, Dahlia had bowed her head again.


    The man suddenly snapped. "Innocent? Your daughter will only grow up to be trouble, just like you. You both deserve to go to hell."


    As Charles charged forward, the man lifted the kitchen knife he was holding and aimed it at Sandy''s chest.


    "No!"


    Dahlia''s eyes went wide with terror, and she let out a piercing scream. She scrambled to her feet and rushed forward recklessly. She managed to push Sandy just enough to dodge a lethal blow, but the knife still caught Sandy''s arm, slicing through her pajamas and leaving a long gash on her soft skin. Blood was gushing out immediately.


    Sandy, who had been too terrified to speak, now cried out in pain, calling for Dahlia. "Ah... it hurts. Mommy, it hurts so much..."


    "Sandy!"


    Hearing her daughter''s cries tore Dahlia apart. She held Sandy tightly, pressing on the wound with a face full of anguish.


    The man, furious at missing his target, raised the knife again, ready to strik


    Dahlia. His craze.get


    made it clear he truly meant


    look


    them both.


    kill


    But before he could, Charles rushed over and kicked the man''s wrist, sending the knife ttering to the floor.


    With wild eyes, the man lunged for the knife again, but Charles kicked him away before he could reach it.


    With a heavy thud, the man crashed to the ground. It felt like his insides were shifting, and his face turned ghostly pale. Still, he was determined and inched toward the knife just out of reach.


    Before he could grab it, Charles stepped on his back, pinning him down.


    Charles radiated an icy fury, looking at the man as if he were already a corpse. As the man tried to rise, Charles pressed him back down. "Ugh-"


    A mouthful of blood spewed from the man''s mouth. Hey pinned, unable to move,pletely incapacitated.


    Charles hurried over to Sandy.


    "Daddy... it hurts so much. Am I going to die?" Sandy, pale and lying in Dahlia''s arms, cried as she looked at Charles, the picture of misery.


    Charles gently lifted Sandy onto the couch, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "Sweetheart, don''t worry. The doctor''s on the way. Daddy''s here, and nothing''s going to happen toyou."  en

 Chapter 85

    As the engine''s hum faded into the distance, Aiden and Dr. Nelson rushed inside. The first thing Dr. Nelson saw was Evelyn sprawled on the floor, looking pretty rough. He was about to kneel down to check on her when Charles'' cold, stern voice sliced through the air. "Over here. Sandy''s hurt."


    Evelyn nced up, meeting Charles'' displeased eyes. His look seemed to say she didn''t matter, and why worry if she was okay or not? Sandy was the one who mattered!


    Dr. Nelson paused, gave Evelyn a quick look, then turned to grab the medical kit from Aiden and headed over to Sandy. He knelt beside the couch to tend to her injuries. "Mr. Charles, don''t worry. It''s not serious. I''ll stitch up Sandy''s wound first."


    Sandy was just a little girl, so Dr. Nelson gave her a local anesthetic to numb the pain before treating her wound. Still, she was shaken up, lying in Charles'' arms, shivering like a leaf. Charles looked down at her with a gentle and tender expression, endlessly soothing her with soft words.


    Evelyn watched Charles, his eyes filled with concern as heforted Sandy. It reminded her of when Charlie was first admitted to the hospital. All the other kids had their dads there tofort them, but Charlie didn''t.


    Charlie took a chance while Evelyn was fetching water and bravely called Charles on her smartwatch, timidly asking, "Dad, can youe and stay with me? I''m sick, and the shots really hurt..."


    But Charles had just coldly replied, "Don''t be like your mother. She''s always lying," and hung up.


    When Evelyn returned to the hospital room and stood at the door, she saw Charlie staring at the disconnected call on her watch. Her little lips were quivering, tears rolled down as she murmured, "Dad, I wasn''t lying. It


    really hurts..."


    But the call had long ended, and no one answered her. Charlie struggled not to cry too loudly. She didn''t want Evelyn to worry, so she covered her mouth, softly whimpering like a wounded animal.


    The sight of her daughter cry so heartbreakingly made Evelyn feel like her heart was being ripped apart. She pretended not to hear and called out from the door, "Charlie, Mommy''s back."


    Charlie quickly hid under the covers,


    pretending to sleep. But she was


    just a kid. She couldn''t just stop crying on cue, and her little


    e


    shoulders shook under the nket. Evelyn sat by the bed, gently patting her daughter''s back, her heart breaking into pieces.


    Charlie soon fell asleep in her mother''sforting presence. Eyes brimming with tears, Evelyn gently wiped away the remaining wetness from Charlie''s face, tucked her in, and left the room.


    She desperately called Charles repeatedly, and when he finally picked up, she begged him toe to the hospital to be there for Charlie. All she got was, "Evelyn, stop being crazy."


    That night, she sat by Charlie''s hospital bed, crying all night long. The memory made the scene before Evelyn even more unbearable. Her expression turned icy.


    When the dizziness eased, Evelyn


    pushed herself up and was ready to


    leave. Dahlia, hugging Charles and


    crying, saw Evelyn trying to go.. Suddenly, she stood and stormed over Her eyes were zing with anger.


    She grabbed Evelyn''s arm, her voice frantic and hysterical. "Evelyn, are you happy now?"

 Chapter 86

    "I get it. I messed up with the jewelry contest. I understand why you''re upset. If you''re mad, take it out on me. But why''d you go and tell someone with such a vtile personality? You pushed him toe after Sandy and me.


    "If Charles hadn''t picked up my call and rushed over, who knows what could''ve happened to us today? Evelyn, is it really that hard for you to tolerate Sandy and me?"


    "Got any proof?" Evelyn pulled her hand away from Dahlia and shot back coolly.


    "Proof? Do we really need it? Tonight at Debbie''s Garden, you brought it up in front of Charles. Besides us, you were the only other person present. Who else could it be?" Dahlia used, her eyes red with emotion, fixing her gaze on Evelyn. She believed Charles would take her side over Evelyn.


    "Weren''t you there too?" Evelyn''s voice dripped with sarcasm.


    Dahlia''s eyes widened, tears welling up as she looked to Charles for support. But Charles stayed silent. Tears streamed down Dahlia''s face as she fumed, "Evelyn, you''re lying about me! Do you think I''d act like you? You use Charlie to win over Charles, and you think I''m the same?"


    "p!" Evelyn''s hand came down hard. Her eyes looked fierce. "Dahlia, I warned you, mention Charlie again, and I''ll shut you up!"


    "Hit a nerve, did I?" Dahlia clutched her cheek, crying even harder.


    "Ha! Do you think I''m like you? Dahlia, we both know what''s really going on!"


    "That''s enough!" Charles cut in, his voice firm. His eyes bore into Evelyn with an icy re. That look was all the judgment she needed. He believed it was her! That she orchestrated this by leaking everything to that man, putting Dahlia and Sandy in harm''s way. Perhaps, even at Oakwood Manor, Charlie''s painting was a pert of her n. It looked like she used Charlie to stir up his guilt. She pretended to take him to Charlie, keeping him from Dahlia''s calls-just to stall him.


    When it came down to it, he''d


    ???


    always choose Dahlia. Evelyn knew that. Yet, her heart still writhed in agony. Evelyn clenched her fists, nails digging into her palms. Her gaze swept past Dahlia, smug with victory, andnded on Charles with a cold stare, her lips curling into a frosty smile. She didn''t bother to defend herself. Her words would only sound like excuses to a man who''d already judged her.


    Too often, Evelyn had made a fool of herself. She wasn''t doing it again. Feeling faint, Evelyn leaned against the door for support, but her spirit was unbroken. Her tone was biting, "You don''t have a shred of evidence. Just based on your words, you want t¨¦pin incitement to murder on me? Who do you think you are?"


    your


    Dahlia stared at Evelyn, stunned, her eyes brimming with tears. "Evelyn, I can''t believe you still show no remorse! At first, I thought I was wrong about the contest, and anger and impulsiveness led you to this. Thankfully, Charles came in time, and Sandy wasn''t badly hurt." She nced at Sandy with affection.

 Chapter 87

    Dahlia embodied the role of a mother enduring hardships for her child''s sake to perfection.


    "I just wanted to avoid trouble. I thought that if you realized your mistake, we could sweep this under the rug..."


    "Dahlia, you deserve an Oscar for that performance."


    Evelyn''s eyes gleamed with sarcastic disdain. How could she be such a drama queen?


    Growing impatient, she cut Dahlia off, "Are you finished with your act? I have the same question as before. Where''s the proof?"


    Dahlia knew Evelyn hadn''t done it, and Evelyn was confident that Dahlia wouldn''t be able to provide any evidence.


    Dahlia made a bold usation just because Charles showered her with undue affection.


    Backed into a corner, Dahlia''s fury turned her eyes red. "Alright! You want proof, right?"


    With that, Dahlia lunged toward the man sprawled on the ground. She dropped to her knees, grabbed his cor, and shook him furiously. "Who gave you my address? Who hinted that you should harm me and my daughter?" The man red at her with a fierce, resentful look but stayed mute.


    Charles cast a nce at Evelyn, who remained calm and indifferent, then nodded at Aiden.


    Aiden swiftly stepped up. Taking over from Dahlia, he pinned the man down, pressing his foot into the ribs that Charles had already broken. "Talk!"


    "Ah! Ugh!"


    The man''s scream was stifled as Aiden stuffed a towel into his mouth, muffling his cries of pain.


    The man''s body shook with agony, his act of madness dissipating. It was clear now he had been faking it.


    In unbearable pain, the man began to stammer, "Uh... I''ll talk... I''ll talk..."


    Only then did Aiden ease his foot off.


    Shaking from the pain, the man fumbled out his phone. "I... I don''t know who the person is. They reached out to me using an old social media ount. "They called using a voice changer-I couldn''t even tell if they were a man or a woman. They imed they were a victim too.


    "They knew I didn''t have long left


    Ave


    and offered me a million dors to leave for my wife and child. All had to dowas take out the mother and daughter.


    "I didn''t want to hurt anyone, but I just wanted my family to be okay after I''m gone..."


    As he spoke, he shakily unlocked his phone and opened the social media app.


    Aiden took the phone and handed it over to Charles.


    Charles'' eyes fell on the ount that had been messaging the man. With just one nce, he recognized it.


    It was Evelyn''s ount.


    The moment he realized that, a storm of emotions swirled in Charles'' eyes. He couldn''t believe Evelyn really dared to do it! Dahlia recognized it, too.


    Before Charles could grab the


    phone, she snatched it, confronting Evelyn with zing eyes. "Evelyn, you wanted proof? Now, it''s undeniable. What do you have to say?"


    en


    Evelyn saw her own ount on the screen and froze. She was clearly caught off guard.


    "Evelyn, I never thought you wanted more than just vengeance; you actually intended to kill me and Sandy. How could you be so heartless..."


    Evelyn hadn''t expected Dahlia to


    back her words with real evidence. But she quicklyposed herself. Arguing wouldn''t help, so she


    retorted with a smirk, "This is what you call undeniable proof? Dahlia, if you want to convict me, let the judge decide. Go ahead, call the cops!"

 Chapter 88

    Dahlia shot a quick nce at Charles. Her mind was racing. She was worried that Evelyn''s calm demeanor might sway him, so she kept pushing his buttons with every word she spoke.


    "Evelyn, you''re terrifying. How can you be so bold? Do you think you''re untouchable now that Rosa is back and you have her support? Do you really believe you''re above thew?"


    Tears threatened to spill from Dahlia''s eyes, and she looked like she might copse at any second. Her gaze was fixed on Evelyn. Her expression screamed of frustration-despite the apparent evidence against Evelyn, she felt powerless. After she finished speaking, Dahlia turned to Charles, who looked like a storm about to break. His expression was icy and intense. Charles was on the brink of fury, and it seemed Evelyn was in serious trouble.


    Dahlia''s eyes briefly flickered with a hint of malice. But before she could even think about calling the cops, Charles spoke up, "Aiden, take him to the police station yourself."


    "Yes, Mr. Jenkins," Aiden replied promptly, stepping forward to lift the man off the ground and drag him out.


    Everything happened so fast that Evelyn barely knew what was happening. But she was innocent and wasn''t afraid to go to the police station. She trusted that the truth woulde out and clear her name.


    So, without fear or resistance, Evelyn started following Aiden to head to the police station. She was ready to face whatever came next.


    "Hold on," Charles said, gently setting Sandy on the couch. He stood and approached Evelyn quickly, grabbed her wrist before she could leave, and pulled her back.


    Evelyn stumbled, crashing into Charles'' solid chest, which left her momentarily dizzy.


    Charles signaled Aiden with a nce, who promptly took the man away, closing the door behind him.


    "Charles, the evidence is clear.


    Evelyn tried to have me and Sandy killed. Are you really going to defend her?" Daklia''s voice shook as she stared at Charles, disbelief written all over her face. Was he falling for Evelyn? Even with all the evidence, was he taking her side?


    Regaining herposure, Evelyn was momentarily caught off guard by Dahlia''s words. What was Charles thinking? Did he actually believe her?


    But then Charles spoke, and his words sent a chill down her spine. "Sandy gets hurt, and you know I won''t let it slide."


    His voice was cold as he looked down at Evelyn in his arms. With that one sentence, it felt like her fate was sealed.


    Dahlia hadn''t fully grasped what


    Charles meant until she saw him dragging Evelyn towards the basement. Suddenly, any worry she had vanished. Sena had once mentioned how, when Evelyn first came to the Jenkins family estate, they had locked her in the basement with rats and bugs-a cruel torment that became Evelyn''s worst nightmare. She feared the


    basement, especially one filled with rats, more than anything.


    Charles was truly being ruthless.


    "Charles, let me go!" Evelyn shouted, still unsure of his intentions. She struggled fiercely as he dragged her along, realizing how absurd it had been to think Charles might trust her, even for a moment.


    Charles'' grip was unyielding. After several futile attempts to break free, Evelyn felt like a rag doll, dragged without mercy across the living room and deeper into the house. "Charles, are you even listening? Let go of me. It''s not your job to deal with me. If you really think I''m guilty, take me to the police station!"

 Chapter 89

    "Shut up!"


    The moment the police station was mentioned, Charles'' demeanor turned icy, his re cutting straight through Evelyn. "You really think you''re untouchable, don''t you?"


    Evelyn got the message. Charles had bought into what Dahlia said and assumed Evelyn wasn''t worried about a trip to the police station-not because she was innocent, but because she had Rosa backing her up.


    Even if Evelyn ended up there, Rosa, who adored her and couldn''t stand Dahlia, would pull strings with the Jenkins family connections to get her out safely. Just as Charles blindly sided with Dahlia, Rosa would do the same for her, which meant Charles couldn''t avenge his beloved Dahlia and Sandy.


    Evelyn thought her heart was bulletproof. However, at that moment, it tightened painfully. She bit down hard on her lower lip and reached for her phone.


    If he wouldn''t take her to the station, she''d call the cops herself.


    Before she could hit call, arge hand snatched the phone away.


    "Charles, give me my phone back." Evelyn reached out and tried to retrieve it.


    Charles'' eyes were unreadable, and as she lunged, he powered off the phone and tossed it onto the couch.


    Her hand came up empty, her eyes welling up as she locked onto Charles'' cold, unyielding profile. "Charles, what are you really after?"


    As soon as she spoke, a door creaked open.


    A chill swept over Evelyn. It was the basement door.


    "Evelyn, you''ve really crossed the line now. It''s time you learned your lesson."


    In that instant, Evelyn caught on to his n. Her face went ghostly pale. She clung to the corner of the wall, refusing to move forward. Her eyes were desperate as she tried to exin herself. "Charles, it wasn''t me!" "If not you, then who?"


    His gaze was icy and unforgiving.


    Evelyn knew she was stuck in a loop. He just wouldn''t believe her. No matter how much she pleaded, it was pointless.


    But she hadn''t done anything wrong! How could he use her without a shred of evidence and punish her like this?


    Evelyn gripped the corner even harder. "Take me to the police station. I won''t call Rosa!"


    Charles let out a derisiveugh. Clearly, he wasn''t buying it.


    "Charles..."


    Evelyn tried again, but Charles didn''t let her finish. He pried her hands away and pulled her in once more.


    In a blink, he had dragged her to the basement door. Her eyes widened in panic. "Charles, no! Please don''t lock me in there. I..." ''I am scared!''


    She couldn''t even voice her fear


    before Charles kicked the door open


    and pushed the struggling Evelyn


    inside. "Evelyn, think about your actions in there. When you figure out what you did wrong, then you''ll


    "Charles, you can''t just lock me up. This isn''t my fault. I did nothing wrong. What is there to think about?"


    Evelyn fell to the ground, struggling to get up. Her hands clung desperately to the door frame.


    The basement was her nightmare. It''s a shadow she couldn''t shake no matter how many years had passed. She still couldn''t face the darkness. Every night, she needed a nightlight to sleep.  en


    Charles had once pulled her out of that basement. And now, over some baseless usation, solely based on Dahlia''s flimsy evidence and empty usations, he was locking her back in her worst nightmare,


    punishing her with no mercy!


    SMS

 Chapter 90

    Charles let out a cold chuckle, ignoring Evelyn''s desperate attempt to hold her ground. Despite her fierce grip, he started peeling her fingers off the doorframe one by one.


    Evelyn clung to the doorway with every ounce of strength, her nails nearly digging into the wood. But no matter how hard she tried, it was useless. Charles pried her fingers away and, right in front of her, mmed the door shut without a hint of mercy. As the door clicked shut, darkness swallowed her whole. Evelyn immediately reached for the doorknob, but it was already locked tight from the outside. A wave of long-buried fear surged within her, draining the color from her face. Panicked, Evelyn pounded on the door. "Charles, open up! You can''t keep me here without reason!" she shouted, her voice echoing in the silence. But there was no answer. "Charles, can you hear me? Let me out! You have no right to do this!" Only silence replied. Evelyn trembled, fear gnawing at her insides. She tried to stay calm, fumbling in the dark for the light switch. Her hands shook, but she finally found it and flicked it on.


    "Click " However, nothing happened. Darkness remained. The basement wires had been cut.


    Evelyn''s knees buckled, and she slid down the wall. The hope that had flickered briefly was snuffed out, leaving her in sheer panic. She continued banging on the door. "Charles, open up!"


    She lost track of time, unsure how long she begged and knocked. No sound came from the other side. This punishment was unbearably harsh. Gradually, strength left her, and she sank to the floor, curling into herself.


    Her eyes saw only darkness. The


    oppressive silence was broken only by her own breathing and heartbeat. Evelyn bit her lip hard, forcing herself to breathe deeply and calm down. She whispered softly, "Evelyn, it''s just dark. It''s just a power cut. Everything''s fine. Everything''s fine."


    As time dragged on, the silence became overwhelming. The unfamiliar quiet, mixed with childhood fears, magnified her terror until it threatened to drown her.


    Uncontrobl? trembles overtook


    her. Tears of fear rolled down her cheeks, falling inrge drops. Her mind drifted back to when she was eight, back to the Jenkins household with


    Ser foster mother and Rosa.


    Rosa treated her like a


    granddaughter, but Sena couldn''t


    stand her.


    Sena had locked Evelyn in the Jenkins'' basement, taking advantage of Rosa''s absence. To frighten her, Sena had the servants releaserge rats into the room Evelyn had pounded on the door, screaming for help, but her cries went unanswered, and her fingers were bloodied and swollen.


    Evelyn would get exhausted and huddle in a corner, too scared to sleep. The squeaking of rats in the dark frayed her nerves, and she sometimes felt them scamper over her. To her eight-year-old self, it was an unimaginable nightmare.


    She endured a day and night of that torment. In her darkest moment, Charles had found her, opened the basement door, and carried her out. The twelve-year-old boy, still a bit scrawny, held her steady in his arms. She clung to him, inhaling his familiar scent. In that moment, Charles was her savior, saving her from the inferno. She had never forgotten that day.

 Chapter 91

    And today, Charles shoved Evelyn back into this nightmare with his own hands for putting Dahlia and Sandy in danger. He used Evelyn''s deepest fear as a weapon against her. It felt like an invisible giant hand was wringing her heart tighter and tighter until she could Evelyn copsed to her knees, wing at her cor for air. Her lips parted in a desperate gasp, yet she was still struggling for breath. Her nerves were stretched to the breaking point, and the defiance she had when she was first locked up was now gone. She softened,ying her vulnerability bare before Charles. Her voice was trembling as she pleaded, "Charles, let me out."


    barely


    breathe.


    "Charles... Charles... Charles... open the door..." she cried, pounding on the door repeatedly, her words trailing off into incoherent fear. He knew she was truly terrified, yet he remained silent.


    The darkness magnified every sensation. Every little sound outside echoed inside. Evelyn pressed against the door and could hear footsteps. Charles was right there. She could almost picture his face, wearing that superior look, waiting for her to break down, sob, and apologize to Dahlia and her daughter.


    Evelyn recalled thest time she crashed Sandy''s party. Dahlia called the cops, and Evelyn ended up in detention before Brooks bailed her out. That night, she had a fever. Charles stood by her bed, looking down and saying, "Is it really that hard to ask for my help?" He was waiting for her to beg and admit a mistake she never made.


    Her biggest mistake, if any, was that night five years ago when, out of love, she didn''t push him away even though he was drugged. Evelyn''s grip on the door tightened.


    "Crack!" The sound of a nail snapping broke the silence. Pain shot from her fingertips, spreading through her body, but it was nothingpared to the agony in her heart. She bit her lip hard, trying to use the pain to fend off the fear.


    Suddenly, she heard the squeaking


    of mice. Was it just her imagination,


    or were there really mice in the basement? It had to be a


    hallucination! The mansion was


    cleaned every day. Unless someone like Sena had let them in on purpose. Evelyn tried to convince herself of this until a familiar sensation


    scurried over her foot.


    "Ah!" A sharp scream tore from her throat. Her scalp tingled, and terror made her hair stand on end as cold sweat soaked her clothes. She stumbled backward, her hand brushing against another mouse.


    "Ah!" she screamed even louder, her


    eyes wide with terror. She was


    helplessly searching in the pitch-ckness but couldn''t see anything. She wanted to move but was too scared. Evelyn hugged herself tightly, shaking


    our


    Uncontrobly and feeling utterly helpless.


    Then, suddenly a mouse was tossed through a gap in the window above,nding right on her head. It slid down her hair, crawled across her face, and scurried downwards.


    "Ah!" Evelyn frantically waved her


    hands. "Get off, get off!" But this time, she couldn''t shake it off. Her mind shed back to when she was eight. She vividly recalled a giant. mous@gnawing at her foot. That memory shattered thest bit of her resilience. In the grip of


    M


    overwhelming fear, Evelyn''s pride waspletely broken.

 Chapter 92

    Evelyn was a wreck. Tears streamed down her face as she awkwardly crawled back to the door. She was drained, barely able to keep pounding on it with her bleeding nails, leaving behind a series of bloody handprints. She didn''t feel the pain anymore. She was too busy, Meanwhile, Dahlia silently stood outside with her arms crossed, letting Evelyn think she was Charles. As she listened to Evelyn''s desperate cries, a smirk spread across her lips. She didn''t need to see Evelyn to know how miserable she was her voice said it all. This was way more satisfying for Dahlia than just tossing Evelyn in jail.


    instinctively begging Charles, who''s standing on the other side. "Charles, please let me out. I''m begging you..." Her voice was heavy with bitterness.


    Now that Rosa was back and always shielding Evelyn, it was a problem. If Evelyn got locked up, Dahlia''s ns might''ve fallen apart before she even got started, because Rosa would''vee to her rescue. Keeping Evelyn here was the ultimate punishment. "Evelyn, what makes you think you canpete with me? Enjoy your stay," Dahlia thought as she sneered and walked away, knowing Charles was upstairs.


    Inside, Evelyn heard the footsteps fade away. Her hand, which was pounding on the door, went still. Thest bit of hope she held onto vanished with Charles'' absence. Her hand slid downwards, leaving a long bloodstain, as she copsed to the floor. "Charles really went all out for Dahlia and her daughter," she thought bitterly.


    Upstairs, Charles was wide awake


    on the balcony. He leaned against the railing and stared into the endless night, his expression cold as he pulled out a cigarette. He lit it, the me casting sharp shadows on his face. His eyes, half-closed against the light, were unreadable. A gust of wind blew, snuffing out the me. Frustrated, Charles tossed the


    lighter and cigarette pack aside just


    as his phone buzzed.


    It was Aiden. Charles answered immediately. "Mr. Jenkins, the guy''s been taken to the station, and he''s confessed. He didn''t mention Ms. Evelyn, so she''s in the clear."


    "Got it," Charles replied curtly before


    hanging up. Aiden continued


    handling the aftermath. Charles was known for his principles and hated shady tactics. In business, he was all about getting things done quickly and cleanly. He wielded immense power in the Capital and was capable of changing fortunes with a mere gesture. This was the first time he''d ever bent his own rules to protect Evelyn.


    Back in her room, Dahlia thought about Evelyn being trapped in the basement. Last time, she''d managed to get Evelyn into a detention center, but Charles'' soft heart got in the way, and Aiden quickly tried to get her out. If Charles heard Evelyn''s pleas, he might waver. She couldn''t risk it.


    Dahlia nced at Sandy, who was sleeping soundly after taking her meds. Evelyn was locked up, and Charles was practically giving Dahlia a golden opportunity. She couldn''t let it slip away. Sandy was asleep, and Charles wouldn''t just walk into her room, but Dahlia still locked the door just to be safe. Then she went over to Sandy, undressed her, and carried her into the bathroom.

 Chapter 93

    The central heating inside the cozy room made everything feel just right, but Sandy still shivered as she stripped down. Even in her sleep, she instinctively snuggled closer to Dahlia. Despite Dahlia''s distant demeanor, she was the only mother figure Sandy had known, and deep down, Sandy leaned heavily on her.


    But Dahlia didn''t soften at Sandy''s touch. Holding her tightly, she whisked Sandy into the bathroom, cranked the shower to cold, and switched off the bedroom''s heater. The chill quickly seeped into the room.


    Dahlia watched the cold water pour into the tub, her fingers stinging from the icy touch. Sandy, feeling the chill, nestled even closer. Her teeth chattered as she murmured in her sleep, "Mommy, hold me. I''m freezing..."


    For a fleeting moment, Dahlia felt a pang of tenderness. But thoughts of Evelyn in the basement snapped her back, and she lowered Sandy into the cold water.


    The icy water swallowed Sandy''s small frame. Though she shivered fiercely, the medication kept her from waking. Her teeth ttered, and she mumbled, "Mommy... I am... so cold..." Dahlia stood by. Her heart hardened until Sandy''s skin turned a pale purple from the cold. Only then did she lift her out, dry her off, and tuck her back into bed.


    Dahlia had raised Sandy and knew her well. It didn''t take long before Sandy was burning up with a fever. Panic-stricken, Dahlia stumbled from the room to Charles'' door, knocking urgently. Her voice was cracking, "Charles... Charles... Sandy''s burning up..."


    Charles was having a hard time


    sleeping. He was about to head downstairs when he heard about Sandy''s fever. He froze, and then


    pivoted quickly to Dahlia''s roop met


    Seeing Sandy''s fever-flushed face, his expression turned grave. Dr. Nelson had warned them that Sandy was still fragile post-surgery, and a fever could be dangerous.


    Without a second thought, Charles scooped Sandy up. He watched Dahlia''s flustered face and barked, "Grab some clothes."


    "Clothes... right." Dahlia rushed to the closet, grabbed a thick coat, and hurried after Charles.


    Before long, they were in Charles'' car. Dahlia sat in the back, cradling Sandy, who was feverishly muttering about the cold. With tears in her eyes, Dahlia kissed her daughter''s burning cheek, whispering, "It''s all my fault. I didn''t keep you safe and you are now hurt like this. Her tears fell, one after another.


    Charles'' face was set in a determined scowl. He nced at the frail Sandy in the rearview mirror and was no longer worried about Evelyn in the basement. He pressed the elerator to speed away.


    As they left the neighborhood,


    Dahlia''s lips corded into a


    barely-there, cold smile. ''Evelyn,


    enjoy your lonely time in the basement.'' She thought. Fear at its peak can make your heart race and cause you to faint. The fear might just do its work on Evelyn if Dahlia could keep Charles upied and dy him from rescuing Evelyn.

 Chapter 94

    The next afternoon, at the Jenkins family''s grand estate, Rosa was busy giving orders to the butler. "Tony, make sure the kitchen whips up a few of Eve''s favorite dishes for tonight," she instructed. "Of course, ma''am." Tony nodded before heading off to the kitchen.


    Pulling out her phone, Rosa decided against calling Evelyn. Knowing she was at work, she sent a voice message instead. "Hey Eve, I''ve got the kitchen cooking up your favorites. Swing by for dinner after work." Assuming Evelyn was caught up in her day, Rosa didn''t think much of theck of response and went upstairs for her afternoon nap.


    By around four in the afternoon, Rosa noticed she still hadn''t heard back from Evelyn. Concerned, she tried calling her.


    "The number you have dialed is currently unavable," the automated message informed Rosa, causing her to frown.


    It wasn''t like Evelyn to have her phone off during work hours. With growing concern, Rosa dialed Charles'' number, but there was no answer.


    Determined, she called Aiden directly. "Where''s Charles?" she demanded.


    "Ma''am, Mr. Jenkins is in a meeting," Aiden replied calmly, fully aware of Rosa''s disdain for Dahlia. If Rosa knew Charles had been at the hospital with Dahlia and her daughter since midnight, she''d be livid. "Get him on the phone," Rosa insisted, her voice firm.


    Aiden knew that Rosa was the person Charles cared about most. Realizing he couldn''t keep it from her, he confessed, "Mr. Jenkins is at the hospital." "What kind of trouble is Dahlia causing now?" Rosa''s face darkened as an uneasy feeling settled in her stomach.


    "Ma''am, Ms. Evelyn was used of having someone hurt Ms. Dahlia," Aiden exined. Considering Rosa''s memorypses, he kept Sandy out of it. "And Charles believes it? What''s he done to Eve? Has he involved the police?" Rosa''s demeanor shifted dramatically, worry driving her to her feet. Whenever Dahlia was in the picture, he seemed to lose all sense. It frustrated Rosa to no end, and she feared for Evelyn''s well-being.


    "No, Mr. Jenkins had someone else take the fall. Eve''s name hasn''te up," Aiden assured her.


    But Rosa''s worry didn''t wane. "Where is Eve?" she demanded, her tone heavy with concern.


    With no other option, Aiden revealed, "She''s in the basement at Greenrose."


    The mention of the basement made Rosa''s eyes widen, herposure faltering. "Get the car ready," shemanded urgently.


    Half an hourter, Rosa arrived at Greenrose, a property owned by the Jenkins family. She stormed inside with four bodyguards in tow and headed straight for the basement.


    en


    IMS


    She found the power was cut, and one bodyguard quickly restored it while another opened the basement door.


    "Eve!" Rosa called out as soon as the door swung open.


    The basement lights flickered on,


    revealing Evelyn curled up on the floor, her face ghostly pale. Her lips, bitten and bloodied, were a


    wan


    disturbing contrast against herplexion. Sweat drenched her


    hair, stering it to her face, and silent tears traced down her cheeks.


    The sight was heartbreaking, and Rosa''s eyes welled up with tears. She rushed to Evelyn''s side, her heart acking as she looked at her unconscious granddaughter. "Oh, my Eve... Quick! Get her to the hospital," she urged, her voice filled with urgency.

 Chapter 95

    Evelyny on the hospital bed, her face pale as a ghost.


    "How''s she doing, Doc?" Rosa asked, her voice thick with worry.


    "She fainted from an irregr heartbeat, but thankfully, she got here in time. Anyter, and it could''ve been fatal," the doctor replied.


    The mention of "fatal" sent a shiver of anger through Rosa. Her chest heaved with emotion as she mmed her cane against the floor. "That bastard!" she spat through gritted teeth.


    Charles knew Evelyn was terrified of basements, but he still locked her up for ages. He may as well have been trying to kill her!


    "Madam, please, take care of yourself," Tony urged, stepping forward with concern. However, his words did little to soothe her.


    It wasn''t until a cold hand gently rested on Rosa''s that she paused. A raspy voice called out softly, "Rosa..."


    Rosa froze, then quickly sped the hand, rubbing it gently between her palms to warm it. "Eve, I''m here. Tell me, does anything else hurt?"


    Evelyn''s eyes welled up slightly. She shook her head softly. "No. Grandma, I''m hungry."


    Rosa had been about to persuade Evelyn into eating something, worried that Charles'' cruelty might leave her heartbroken. After all, she loved Charles deeply.


    To her surprise, Evelyn spoke up for herself, saying she was hungry.


    "Tony, now, get Eve something to eat."


    Tony rushed to set up a small table, arranging a spread of delicious dishes and utensils.


    As Evelyn tried to prop herself up, a sharp pain shot through her fingers, making her face nch.


    Her gaze fell on her left hand, wrapped in bandages around the middle three fingers. Memories of the basement flooded her mind. Her eyelids drooped. There was a chill in her gaze.


    "Eve, be careful with your hand," Rosa said tenderly, holding Evelyn''s left hand and blowing on it gently.


    "Grandma, it doesn''t hurt," Evelyn assured her with a smile as she sat up with Rosa''s support.


    That smile brought tears to Rosa''s eyes. As she watched Evelyn, her heart ached even more. How could it not hurt? Fingers are so sensitive, and Charles caused all these injuries.


    Evelyn took the cutlery from Tony and began to eat. After finishing her meal, she felt her strength slowly returning. She looked up at Rosa''s sympathetic gaze and softly asked, "Grandma, could you do me a


    favor?"


    In Sandy''s Hospital Room, Charles took the phone from Tony, and Rosa''s frosty voice came through loud and clear. "Charles, if you still consider me your grandma, you better get back here right now." She hung up without another word.


    "Charles, Sandy''s out of the woods.


    The doctor says she''s fine now. I''m here to take care of her, so you don''t need to worry. Rosa must have something urgent to discuss with


    you, Dahlia said with understanding.


    Once Charles left, Dahlia could slip away to clean up the mice and maybe enjoy Evelyn''s misery. Perhaps Evelyn had already been scared out of her wits. Dahlia couldn''t wait to get back and see for herself. "Call me if anythinges up," Charles said, leaving with Tony.


    Once Charles was gone, Dahlia


    arranged for someone to look after


    ???


    Sandy and got ready to head back to Greenrose. Just as she stepped outside to hail a cab, a car pulled up beside her. A tall man hopped out, and before Dahlia could react, he skillfully pinned her arms behind her.

 Chapter 96

    Dahlia was unceremoniously shoved into the car with a swift kick. Her head collided with the seatback, making her dizzy, and her hair was yanked hard. "Ah!" she screamed as she was dragged into the vehicle. Her head was forced upwards to meet a pair of icy eyes. It was Evelyn, back to settle the score.


    The moment Dahlia realized it was Evelyn, any trace of panic and fear evaporated. She sat up defiantly, her eyes challenging as she faced Evelyn, who looked worn out and pale after a day and night of torment. Evelyn was lucky to be alive! Dahlia couldn''t imagine Evelyn getting out! It had to be Rosa who set her free!


    Seeing Evelyn''s bandaged fingers stirred a mix of resentment and grudging admiration in Dahlia. She remembered Evelyn''s desperate pleas from the night before and felt a thrill of triumph but kept her face neutral. With a smirk, she taunted, "Evelyn, what are you doing? Let me go! You know how much Charles loves me. He''ll be livid if he finds out you''ve been released and are causing trouble again.


    "And when he''s mad, who knows what he''ll do to you? Wasn''t a day and night in the basement with rats enough for you?"


    Dahlia''s eyes sparkled with smug satisfaction. She was confident in her standing with Charles afterst night. She aimed each word to pierce Evelyn''s heart, hoping to see her crumble. However, Evelyn showed no fear at the mention of the basement and rats. Her expression was icy, and her gaze was cold.


    If this had been the Evelyn who once loved Charles deeply, Dahlia''s words would have cut deep. Butst night Evelyn had begged Charles in a moment of terror, and he had turned his back on her to appease Dahlia, leaving her to her fears. At that moment, thest flicker of affection for him was snuffed out.


    The boy who had once been a beacon of light in her life was dead to her.


    Evelyn sneered, grabbing Dahlia''s jaw and shoving her back against the car door with a thud, pinning her in ce. Speaking ofst night, Dahlia You really went all out, didn''t you? You


    you were even willing to hurt


    own daughter to frame me."


    "Evelyn, what are you talking about? I love Sandy. How could I hurt her?" Dahlia retorted fiercely, trying to sound righteous. "It was obviously your twisted n to hire someone to harm Sandy and me. That person even pointed at you, and still..."


    "Dahlia, I''m not recording, and Charles isn''t here, so drop the act," Evelyn cut her off with a coldugh.


    She tossed Dahlia into the backseat with a scoff, then cleaned her hand that had touched Dahlia with a tissue before tossing it disdainfully into the trash.


    Humiliated, Dahlia''s expression darkened. As Evelyn moved on fromst night''s topic, Dahlia''s brow furrowed slightly, unsure of her next move.

 Chapter 97

    Could she have gotten it all wrong?


    The car''s interior was deathly quiet. Dahlia watched Evelyn, who sat there cool as a cucumber, staring out the window. She couldn''t figure out what Evelyn was plotting. She knew the rules: whoever broke the silence first was the one to lose their edge. But Dahlia couldn''t keep it in any longer.


    "Evelyn, what are you up to?" she blurted out.


    Evelyn, this woman she''d crushed under her heel for years-along with her brat of a kid-had always been her ything. So why was she acting all high and mighty now?


    "You''ll find out soon enough," Evelyn replied, her voice as nd as ever. She didn''t give Dahlia a straight answer. She just gave her a look filled with something Dahlia couldn''t quite read. This sparked a flicker of fear in her chest.


    Swallowing her rising panic, Dahlia gritted her teeth. "Evelyn, if you darey a finger on me, Charles won''t let you get away with it!"


    Evelyn''s gaze was unsettling, and Dahlia was genuinely rattled. Her mind was a battlefield of conflicting thoughts. One part of her insisted Evelyn wouldn''t dare touch her. She''d always used Charles'' affection for her to set traps for Evelyn, both before and after going abroad. Not once had Evelyn struck back. This time wouldn''t be any different.


    But another part of her couldn''t shake the fear that Evelyn might''ve been pushed over the edge and was willing to do something crazy.


    "Evelyn, talk to me. What do you n to do with me?" Dahlia demanded, struggling to move forward from the back seat.


    "Shut her up." Evelyn''s voice was calm as she kicked a shoe-cleaning rag toward the back seat.


    The bodyguard grabbed Dahlia, yanking her back as he bent down to pick up the filthy rag.


    "How dare you!" Dahlia''s eyes widened in shock, ring daggers at the bodyguard. "Charles is the head of the Jenkins family. You better think twice about who matters more to-him-me or Evelyn."


    Everyone knew she was the apple of Charles'' eye in the Jenkins family. The guy in front of her, with his suit and alt, was clearly one of their bodyguards. Was he really bold


    enough to side with Evelyn?


    But her words didn''t even make him flinch. He stayed cold as ice, mping down on her jaw with an iron grip.


    "Ugh! How dare you!" Dahlia''s face


    turned ashen as she hissed through gritted teeth. She tried to back away but was powerless against his strength. With a swift move, he forced her jaw open. The rag was shoved into her mouth.


    Dahlia was used to Charles treating her like royalty and had never been handled like this.


    "Gag!" she choked, disgusted. Her mouth was stuffed tight. The bile that rose in her throat was forced back down, leaving her looking ghostly pale. Unable to speak, she could only re daggers at Evelyn. Her eyes burned with a hatred that wished Evelyn to dust.


    Evelyn didn''t give her a single nce, letting Dahlia stew in her own mental turmoil and fear of the unknown.


    The car finally pulled into an upscale vi neighborhood in the Capital, stopping at a particrly grand property. This ce belonged to Rosa.


    Evelyn couldn''t just end Dahlia, but with Dahlia in her clutches, she sure as hell wasn''t going to let her have an easy day.

 Chapter 98

    When Evelyn woke up, she asked Rosa to help her look into that incident. Rosa reassured her that she had already done the digging. Evelyn''s number was used to contact the mysterious man, but her ount had been hacked that day, and she had a solid alibi to prove it, clearing her name. Tony had also investigated Dahlia but came up empty-handed. There were no records of any transactions between Dahlia and the suspect. They didn''t know each other, and Dahlia had never met him privately. If Rosa couldn''t find anything, it probably meant there was nothing to find.


    In other words, the evidence Tony had gathered could only prove to Charles that Evelyn wasn''t the one behind the incident. But it wasn''t enough to show him Dahlia''s true nature and that she had orchestrated the whole thing. Evelyn decided to pass on Rosa''s suggestion to confront Charles and demand an apology. Charles'' apology was worthless to Evelyn. The damage was already done. What good would his apology do?


    It was clear that Evelyn didn''t hold a ce in Charles'' heart. Even if she proved the ount wasn''t hers, he might still doubt her. After all, he believed that if it wasn''t Evelyn, who else could it be?


    Rosa noticed Evelyn''s reluctance and assumed she was too in love with Charles to hold a grudge. She asked, "Eve, are you really going to let this slide?"


    Evelyn responded with firm resolve, "No way! How could I let Dahlia dodge responsibility after framing me?"


    ...


    The car door swung open, and


    Evelyn stepped out slowly. Meanwhile, Dahlia was unceremoniously tossed out by the bodyguard. "Ugh!" She let out a pained whimper, muffled by the gag in her mouth. Sprawled on the ground, she red up at Evelyn with bloodshot, angry eyes, her


    expression seething with hatred. Her words were muffled, but it was clear she was cursing.


    Evelyn met her with a cold stare, gave a quick signal to the


    bodyguard, and strode into the vi. The bodyguard dragged Dahlia along by the cor. His long strides made it impossible for Dahlia to keep up with her hands tied Her feet scraped along the ground, leaving her shoes behind, and her toes bled as she was hauled inside.


    Once they reached the basement, it dawned on Dahlia what Evelyn had nned. Standing outside the basement door, the bodyguard finally removed the filthy towel from Dahlia''s mouth. "Evelyn, you bitc-" Dahlia started, but before she could finish, Evelyn''s hand whipped across her face, cutting her off.


    The p turned Dahlia''s head to the side, a thin line of blood appearing at the corner of her mouth. "You!" Dahlia began, but she swallowed her words under Evelyn''s steely gaze. With defiance in her eyes, she challenged, "Evelyn, what gives you the right to hold me here?"


    "What right?" Evelyn chuckled. "Dahlia, you''re already here, and you''re asking such a ridiculous question. Why do I need a reason? Today, I just feel like it, and what can you do about it?"


    Dahlia had set her up, but Evelyn knew shecked concrete evidence to pin it on Dahlia. She had cleared her own name, leaving only Dahlia''s possible self-sabotage. However, Charles loved Dahlia so much that even solid evidence might not be enough. As long as Dahlia shed a


    tear, Charles would melt and


    wouldn''ty a finger on her.

 Chapter 99

    These days, Evelyn wasn''t holding her breath for anything from Charles. Dahlia, riding high on Charles'' favoritism, had the nerve to throw baseless usations at Evelyn, whichnded her in the basement, facing all kinds of torment. Evelyn wouldn''t let anything slide, not Charles'' betrayal and certainly not Dahlia''s plotting. Even if getting back at Charles had to wait, Evelyn wasn''t about to letst night''s ordeal go unpaid.


    "Evelyn, you wouldn''t dare! Charles would never let you get away with this!" Dahlia blurted out, trying to use Charles as her shield.


    "Is that so?" Evelyn smirked, unfazed. She was curious to see just how Charles could hold something over her now. "Toss her in," Evelyn ordered, her voice as cold as ice.


    No sooner had she spoken than the bodyguard, showing no mercy, threw Dahlia into the basement.


    Dahlia hit the ground with a thud. "Ow!" she yelped, her face twisting in pain. She shot daggers at Evelyn, standing by the door. Never did she imagine Evelyn would actually lock her up. But that was it, wasn''t it?


    Dahlia quickly regained herposure, shing Evelyn a scornful look. All that bravado, and for what? For getting locked in a basement? That was so ridiculous. Dahlia wasn''t afraid of a basement, and she knew it was only a matter of time before Sandy would alert Charles. He''de rushing to her aid soon enough. Then, she''d make Evelyn regret it.


    "What''s on your mind, Dahlia?" Evelyn asked, her eyes meeting Dahlia''s with an even sharper edge, her lips curling into a sly grin. "I heard... you''ve got a real fear of... snakes."


    The mention of snakes dropped Dahlia''s smug expression instantly. Panic flickered in her eyes. Snakes were her deepest fear. Ever since that bite when she was a kid, just hearing about snakes made her skin craw. She tried to mask her fear, foreing a steady tone. "Evelyn, do you really think I''m like you? Do you think I''m afraid of such silly things?"


    "Really?" Evelyn''s smile widened, dripping with sarcasm. She signaled to the bodyguard, who promptly brought over a cage covered with a ck cloth and set it down at the door The hissing from inside was unmistakable.


    Dahlia''s face went ashen, her bravado crumbling as fear flooded her eyes. She instinctively backed away, shouting desperately, "Evelyn, you wouldn''t dare! Charles will never forgive you!" Even now, she clung to her threats. Charles was herst bargaining chip.


    "Hah, why would I fear him if I''m already going to do it?" Evelyn retorted with a coldugh. She stepped closer, pulling off the ck cloth in front of Dahlia''s eyes. Evelyn stared at the snakes inside the cage, the creatures she had feared until just a day ago. But afterst night, they no longer held power over her. Instead, they were Dahlia''s terror.


    Evelyn''s sudden reveal caught Dahlia off guard. Her eyes were locked on the writhing snakes, hissing with menace. The sight was too much; Dahlia''s face contorted with terror as she let out a piercing scream. "Ah!" Evelyn watched her, calm and collected. "I thought you weren''t afraid?"


    "Evelyn, let''s be reasonable. Let me out, and we can work this out. I swear, I won''t breathe a word to Charles," Dahlia pleaded, her bravado shattered. How could she not be afraid?

 Chapter 100

    Dahlia was scared out of her mind. Swallowing hard, she softened her voice and tried to reason with Evelyn. Her words trembled as they left her lips. Evelyn was known for having a soft spot. If Dahlia could just persuade Evelyn to let her go, she swore she wouldn''t let her off the hookter.


    Evelyn wasn''t in the mood for chit-chat. Instead, she crouched down, slipping on a pair of gloves a bodyguard handed to her, and with a calmness that only fueled Dahlia''s terror, she reached into a cage and pulled out a snake.


    Evelyn was as cool as a cucumber, while Dahlia''s face turned ghostly white, her eyes wide with sheer panic. Shey on the floor, her head bobbing frantically. She kept muttering, "No, no, get it away, Evelyn. Please, get it away! Ah!"


    With Dahlia''s shrill screams echoing around the room, Evelyn tossed the snake onto her. Dahlia must have dropped rats through the skylight to scare herst night. She and Sena were thick as thieves. Sena must''ve spilled the beans about all the childhood bullying. What a piece of work Dahlia was. Evelyn remembered everything she had endured the night before, and her gaze grew colder. She was dead set on making Dahlia pay double.


    Dahlia shook like a leaf, trying to fling the snake off, but her hands were tied, leaving her helpless as the snake slithered over her.


    "Ah!"


    Dahlia was nearly losing it. Her screams were relentless as she scrambled desperately on the floor to dodge the snake, but it was no use. Evelyn tossed another snake near her legs, and it quickly coiled around, slithering up her pant leg. "Ah! Ah!!!"


    Her screams were bone-chilling. Dahlia''s face was drained of color, fear making her thrash her legs wildly, but she couldn''t shake off the slimy creature. She could feel it crawling over her, and it was utterly revolting. "Ah! Go away! Go away!"


    As she iled about, yet another snake was thrown her way.


    "Please! Evelyn, I''m begging you, let me go! Please!"


    Her makeup was a mess. Tears and snot covered her face as she sobbed and begged for Evelyn''s mercy. But Evelyn was unyielding, watching with icy detachment. Her face was a mask as she kept up the torment.


    These snakes had been defanged.


    They wouldn''t actually bite Dahlia,


    but they were wreaking havoc on her mind. Evelyn stood outside the door the whole time, watching Dahlia be entangled with her worst nightmare.


    She screamed chaotic pleas for help, had a mental breakdown, and was desperately begging.


    Evelyn remained unmoved, her cold gaze never wavering. As time dragged on, Dahlia was pushed to the brink by Evelyn''s relentless torment. She felt like she was about to die.


    Just then, urgent footsteps echoed from the elevator. Momentster, Charles appeared. His face was like thunder, seething with rage. "Evelyn, have you lost your mind? What on earth are you doing?"


    Hearing Charles'' voice, a flicker of


    hope sparked in Dahlia''s eyes. Charles was here. She was saved. She momentarily forgot her fear and shot Evelyn a venomous re. Defiance was written all over her face as she silently mouthed, "Evelyn, you''re done for!"


    Then, with a mix of grievance and despair, she cried out, "Charles... Charles... get me out of here... I''m so scared..."


    But Evelyn wasn''t about to let Dahlia


    put on more of a show. As soon as Charles showed up, she motioned for the bodyguard to shut the door. As it slowly closed, Evelyn cast a final, cold nce at Dahlia

 Chapter 101

    Getting out of here wasn''t as easy as Dahlia had thought.


    "Charles..." Dahlia''s voice was filled with pitiful sobs. With a loud ng, the door mmed shut.


    At that moment, Evelyn looked up, meeting Charles'' zing fury without a hint of fear. Instead, she let out a coldugh, challenging him. "And why on earth shouldn''t I?"


    "Ms. Evelyn, Mr. Jenkins just managed to clear your name from those murder chargesst night. You really shouldn''t be..." Sensing the tension between them, Aiden stepped in and spoke softly. His words hinted at Charles'' efforts the previous night. Charles kept her locked to protect her.


    "So, I should be grateful, huh?" Evelyn''s voice dripped with sarcasm as memories of the previous night''s ordeal in the basement flooded back. None of this was her doing. She was innocent. Why would she need his protection?


    If Charles had shown even a shred of fairness and a bit of trust instead of jumping to conclusions, Evelyn wouldn''t have been dragged to the police station. Nor would he have used her deepest fears against her as punishment just to force her to reflect and confess. Aiden wanted to say yes, but Evelyn''s tone and expression were anything but thankful towards Mr. Jenkins. He found himself at a loss for words.


    Charles was frustrated by Evelyn''sck of gratitude. She always took a mile whenever given an inch. Now that his grandmother was back, Evelyn was even more defiant. As soon as he stepped out, she was stirring up trouble for Dahlia again.


    Charles'' face turned stormy, his voice as icy as a thousand-year-old cier. "Open the door!"


    Thismand was directed at the bodyguards, who were loyal to Rosa. Her orders were for them to obey Evelyn. But this was Charles, the head of the Jenkins family. The intensity of his presence made them tremble.


    "No!!" Evelyn stood her ground, unfazed by Charles'' intimidation. She stepped forward, blocking the door.


    "Evelyn, you''ve bepletely


    reckless now that grandma''s


    In


    backing you!" The veins on Charles temples bulged with anger. He strode forward, grabbed Evelyn''s wrist, yanked her away from the door, and tossed her aside,


    Evelyn, still weak, couldn''t withstand Charles'' force and was flung like a rag doll, crashing into the wall.


    "Ms. Evelyn!" The bodyguards were shocked, rushing to shield Evelyn.


    Evelyn steadied herself, watching Charles with a grim expression. He kicked at the door, desperate to get his beloved Dahlia out. Evelyn remembered how he had locked her up without mercy for a full day and night, leaving her to suffer. However, for Dahlia, he couldn''t wait a


    moment longer.


    The chill in Evelyn''s eyes grew colder. Bracing herself against the wall, she spoke with icy resolve, "Charles, if you take Dahlia out, I''ll lock her back up. And it won''t just be tit for tat-I''ll double it!" "Let''s see who are going to lock Dahlia up again while I''m still here!" Charles'' gaze swept coldly over the bodyguards behind Evelyn, his voice frigid. He remained unwavering in his defense of Dahlia. "I will!" Rosa''smanding voice rang out from the elevator entrance.

 Chapter 102

    Rosa was clearly in a rush, too. Evelyn had asked her to call Charles away from Dahlia, making it easier to get Dahlia out of the picture. Initially, Rosa intended to stand up for Evelyn, but when she saw Evelyn ready to fight her own battles, she was even more eager to


    help. Evelyn used to be blinded by love for Charles, and had let him get away with too much.


    Once they managed to divert Charles away from Dahlia, Rosa realized something was amiss when she didn''t find him at the family mansion. She immediately got Tony to look into it, and sure enough, Charles had shown up here. Rosa stepped in front of Evelyn, taking a protective stance.


    Charles stopped, turning to face Rosa. His anger hadn''t fully dissipated. His eyes were still cold, but his tone had softened a bit. "You can''t just let Evelyn get away with hurting Dahlia because you like her..."


    "Do you think I''m like you?" Rosa snapped back sharply. "I do care about Eve, but I haven''t lost my sense of what''s right and wrong!


    "I had Tony dig intost night''s incident. Sure, the ount was Eve''s, but it was hacked. The login details and timing prove Eve has an alibi. It wasn''t her."


    Charles'' face tightened, his eyes shifting to Evelyn, who stood calmly behind Rosa. From her calm expression, it''s clear that Evelyn was aware that her grandmother had uncovered the truth.


    Charles asked quietly, "Why didn''t youe to me?"


    Evelyn caught his underlying usation. He was upset she hadn''t gone straight to him with the truth, choosing instead to retaliate against Dahlia.


    "Would it have mattered if I did? Didn''t Eve tell you it wasn''t her? Did you believe her?"


    Rosa was fuming at Charles'' stance. He was clearly taken aback.


    "If it wasn''t Eye, who else but Dahlia could have staged this?" Rosa''s gaze was sharp as she confronted Charles. His face darkened, thoughts hidden behind a murky expression. Yet, he didn''t immediately deny Rosa''s usation.


    Dahlia was still behind the door. She knew Charles was outside. She''d


    been crying softly to gain his


    sympathy but paused as she listened. When she realized Charles didn''t jump to her defense, she broke down, her voice shaky with emotion.


    "Charles, you know Sandy is everything to me. How could I orchestrate anything to harm her? I can''t bear it even when she gets a tiny scratch-I wish I could take her ce." Charles remembered Dahlia''s usual tenderness toward Sandy and Sandy''s reliance on her. If Dahlia didn''t truly care about Sandy, why would she be so attached?


    "Grandma, it couldn''t have been Dahlia," Charles insisted.


    Evelyn found his response painfully ironic. When the finger was pointed at Evelyn, he would say, "Who else besides you?" But when it was pointed at Dahlia, he said, "It couldn''t be Dahlia." This response pushed Rosa over the edge. She mmed her cane on the ground, eximing, "You''re beyond help!"


    When it came to Dahlia, Rosa


    realized she shouldn''t have expected


    u


    anything different from Charles. She squeezed Evelyn''s hand and regretted asking in front of her realizing she''d unintentionally hurt her again.

 Chapter 103

    Inside the room, Dahlia caught Charles'' firm tone and had a smug glint in her eyes. But that smugness quickly gave way to fear, as if she could feel snakes wrapping around her, making her shiver uncontrobly. She wanted out of that room, like, yesterday.


    Tears streamed down Dahlia''s cheeks as she whimpered, "Charles, I''m terrified... please get me out of here..." Her fear was real, but so was her intent to twist the knife into Evelyn a bit more.


    Evelyn had just locked her up when Charles swooped in for the rescue. Yet, when Evelyn was locked up for a full day and night, Charles was nowhere to be found. Imagining the door swinging open and Charles whisking her away right in front of Evelyn filled Dahlia with glee. Evelyn would never get the upper hand.


    "Grandma, this isn''t Dahlia''s doing. I''m the one who locked Evelyn up. Please, let Dahlia go," Charles pleaded.


    Rosa responded with a cold chuckle. "Not a chance! You locked Evelyn up all day and night for Dahlia. Let me tell you, Dahlia won''t leave this basement even a second early."


    "If you dare let Dahlia out before her time, consider me gone." Rosa''s gaze was steely, and she wasn''t one to bluff.


    Charles knew better than to argue with his grandmother''s fiery temper, so he kept quiet.


    Rosa nced at the closed door, hearing Dahlia''s cries from inside. She smirked, "Next time you punish Eve without proof, I''ll make sure Dahlia gets double the trouble." Her warning was for both Charles and Dahlia.


    "Nobody''s getting her out early," she ordered the bodyguard.


    "Yes, ma''am."


    When Rosa guided Evelyn out, she gave Charles who''s standing by the door a look and said sternly, "You''re right. You locked Eve up. You can stay with Dahlia, but after wesettle this."


    "Yes!" Charlesplied without a fuss.


    ...


    The group left the dark, gloomy basement behind. In the brightly dit living room, Charles finally noticed Evelyn''s ghostly pale face and the cuts on her lips. She didn''t look well at all.


    en


    His typically stern expression softened as he moved forward, taking hold of Evelyn''s wrist. "What happened to you?" he asked quietly.


    His grip identally caught Evelyn''s injured fingers, making her wince and suck in a sharp breath, her face going even paler.


    Charles quickly loosened his grip but didn''t let gopletely. Instead, he gently held her wrist, his eyes fixed on the bandages around her fingers, his heart skipping a beat. Was a few hours in the basement really this


    bad?


    "Do you really have to ask?" Rosa snapped from ahead. She spun around, unable to hold back, and tapped Charles with her cane. "Isn''t this all thanks to you?" "Have you lost it, Charles? What were you thinking? You know Evelyn''s terrified of basements after what happened with Sena when she was a kid, and yet you left her there for so long..." Rosa''s voice wavered, and her eyes misted with tears. Her heart ached for Evelyn. Just imagining Evelyn in that basement for nearly twenty hours felt like a dagger twisting in her chest.

 Chapter 104

    Even without seeing it firsthand, you could figure out what Evelyn had gone through by just imagining it. Charles stood there, looking a bit taken aback. This was a memory from way back when. He''d long since pushed it out of his mind. When Evelyn first joined the Jenkins family, he only watched over her because he''d promised his grandmother. Truth be told, he didn''t really pay Evelyn much mind and did not even spare her a proper nce. Her affairs were never on his radar. Evelyn started catching his attention when she began trailing after him like a little shadow, calling him "Charles" in that soft, sweet voice of hers, reminiscent of that girl called Debbie in his mind. Because of this familiarity, he took Evelyn under his wing, but that was the extent of it.


    Evelyn saw the look on Charles'' face, and a chill settled in her eyes. She pulled her hand away from his, her expression unreadable. All along, he had long forgotten what she held dear in her heart-her deep-seated feelings and memories all meant nothing to him. For a moment, Evelyn was torn. Was it more painful that he remembered and chose to hurt her this way or that he simply forgot?


    "Eve," Rosa said, taking hold of Evelyn''s hand again and giving Charles a fierce re before leading Evelyn to the car. Charles tried to hop in, but Rosa shooed him off to his own car. She couldn''t stand the sight of him.


    Meanwhile, down in the basement, Dahlia was in a state of panic. When she realized Charles truly left, she was scared out of her wits. She couldn''t wrap her head around the fact that he would really leave her there, and she cried out, "Charles... Charles... Charles..." But no matter how loud she shouted, there was only silence from outside.


    Now, Dahlia was genuinely terrified.


    Before, she was scared and uneasy, but deep down, she wasn''t truly afraid because she believed Charles woulde for her soon and get her out, Evelyn''s torment felt


    and Rosa even said that Dahlia


    temporary. Now, Charles was ne


    wouldn''t see the light of day for another twenty hours, she was losing it. She couldn''t handle it.


    "Charles... you can''t leave... Charles... Charles..." Dahlia screamed, struggling frantically on the floor. The ropes binding her wrists were torn open by her vigorous efforts, leaving her skin raw and bleeding, but she didn''t care about the pain. She stumbled to the door, pounding on it, "Charles, Charles!" No matter how much she knocked or shouted, the silence remained.


    Suddenly, with a click, the light went out, plunging the basement into darkness. "Ah Dahlia screamed, herst nerve fraying. The darkness made everything worse. The hissing sound of snakes slithering on


    Then, a small hatch on the door opened from the outside, and although the corridor was pitch ck, a hissing sound emerged as soon as it opened. In the next instant, something cold and slithery fell onto her arm.


    ground sent chills up her ent


    "Ah!" Dahlia shrieked, iling her arms wildly to fling the snake off. She reached for the hatch to close it but wasn''t tall enough. Helpless, she watched as more snakes slithered in through the opening. "No!" Dahlia screamed, backing away, but the snakes kepting. Everywhere she turned, the hissing followed.


    "Charles... Charles..." She cried out until her voice was hoarse, but there was no answer, only the suffocating grip of fear. Overwhelmed by terror, Dahlia''s eyes rolled back, and she fainted on the spot.

 Chapter 105

    Hearing themotion from inside, the bodyguard peeked through a small door with his special sses on. Once he confirmed Dahlia was out cold, he opened the door, walked in without a flicker of emotion, roused her, and left. And so, the cycle of torment for Dahlia


    continued.


    ...


    Back at the Jenkins family estate, Rosa wasted no time dragging both Charles and Evelyn straight to the family''s chapel.


    "Stand still," Rosa snapped at Charles with a voice as sharp as a whip itself.


    Charles got the message loud and clear, not daring to protest. He cast a nce at Evelyn as his strong, defined hands moved to unbutton his coat. He shrugged it off and handed it to Tony, who stood silently by his side. Now, just in a crisp white shirt that highlighted his broad shoulders and narrow waist, he waited.


    Rosa marched over to the shelf where the family kept their disciplinary tools. She picked up a whip and handed it to Evelyn. "Eve, don''t go easy on him. This fool needs a wake-up call."


    Rosa had been simmering with anger since she found out what happened in the basement. The memory of that sight made her wish she could knock some sense into Charles with everysh.


    Evelyn took the whip, her eyes catching Charles''. "Eve, don''t hold back," Rosa urged, worried Evelyn''s feelings for Charles might stop her from delivering the punishment he deserved.


    Evelyn nodded slightly, firmly


    gripping the ck whip handle with her uninjured right hand. She moved slowly towards Charles, her mind reying the moment he coldly brushed off her pleas, dismissed her pain with a sneer, and pushed her into a pit of despair. It had pierced her heart.


    Now, anger was all Evelyn felt. She tightened he hold on the whip, raising it high. It sliced through the air andnded on Charles'' back with a sharp crack. Evelyn poured every ounce of strength into that strike, her eyes welling up-not with pity, but with a seething fury.


    How could she not despise him? His blind faith in Dahlia and Sandy had left Evelyn powerless against them, even as they were responsible for Charlie''s death. Memories of the past paraded before Evelyn, fueling her rage and making her strikes even more relentless. "Crack!" Another whip, another blownded, each one harder than thest. There was no hesitation, no mercy-the depth of her hatred drove each stroke. This wasn''t just about her suffering in the basementst night. It was for the times Charles repeatedly hurt Charlie. What Charles owed Evelyn and Charlie couldn''t simply be paid with a fewshes. Evelyn, consumed by anger, wished she could whip him senselessly so he''d never stand up for Dahlia and Sandy again.


    Whip after whip, Evelyn''s eyes grew


    red with fury Each strike carried her resentment toward Charles, and each one was meant to leave asting mark. Charles'' white shirt quickly turned crimson, the sight of it piercing Evelyn''s heart even more, yet she couldn''t bring herself to stop.

 Chapter 106

    Charles stood rooted to the spot, his face a mask of icy calm, as if he were carved from stone. He didn''t flinch when Evelyn''s first whip cracked against him. Instead, he turned slightly, his deep, inscrutable eyes fixing on her pale face and the tears of anger welling in her eyes.


    His gaze held a storm of emotions tooplex to unravel. He let Evelyn continue her action as if oblivious to the pain, allowing her to release her fury. Rosa sat nearby, watching silently, choosing not to intervene.


    From the first strike, Rosa''s heart felt heavy. She couldn''t believe Evelyn had it in her tosh out at Charles and so harshly at that. More than anyone, Rosa knew how deeply Evelyn loved Charles. She watched Evelyn''s anger-fueled strikes and remembered Evelyn''s early days with the Jenkins family. She''s so cautious and on edge back then.


    Rosa was worried Evelyn would be mistreated, so she''d asked Charles to look after her. Charles, ever obedient, agreed. Initially, Evelyn was terrified of Charles, but when Sena trapped her in the basement, and Charles rescued her, everything changed. Evelyn started trailing after him.


    Charles, who had grown withdrawn after turning ten, rarely let anyone close. But with Evelyn, he was different-more protective and caring than Rosa had ever expected. As they grew older, Evelyn''s admiration for Charles evolved into something deeper, more akin to the stirrings of first love.


    Evelyn thought she hid her feelings well, but every nce at Charles gave her away. She didn''t care about family status or background. Rosa had watched Evelyn grow up into a sweet, kind-hearted girl who loved Charles fiercely. In Rosa''s eyes, Evelyn was perfect for him. Back then, Evelyn was the only girl who could get close to Charles, and Rosa hoped for their rtionship to blossom.


    Then Dahlia came into the picture, and Charles changed. Evelyn, however, remained constant. Even as Charles hurt her time and again for Dahlia, Evelyn''s love for him stayed strong. Now, Evelyn''s eyes no longer held love. They were resentful. She hated Charles after he locked her in the dreaded basement for Dahlia''s sake, breaking her heartpletely.


    Evelyn was truly ready to give up on him, and Rosa felt a deep sadness.


    As anothersh ended, the whip fell from Evelyn''s trembling hand. She had pushed herself beyond her limits. Her heart didn''t want to stop, but her body had given out. Her chest heaved with exertion, and she struggled to catch her breath. Exhausted, she couldn''t lift her arm anymore.


    Charles, who had been watching her intently, spoke softly, "Are you done? Can we move past this?"


    Evelyn understood what he meant he wanted to free Dahlia. No wonder he let her strike him. It was all for Dahlia. Her grip on the whip tightened. Move past it? Not a chance.


    With all her remaining strength, she tried tosh out again, but dizziness overtook her. The whip slipped from her grasp as her legs buckled and darkness closed in.


    "Eve!" Rosa cried out as Charles


    instinctively reached for Evelyn.


    Despite the pain in his back, he had


    no hesitation. He caught her just before she hit the ground, pulling her into his arms. The weight of her frail body made his brow crease imperceptibly. She felt lighter than before.


    Ignoring his own bleeding wounds, Charles carried Evelyn into his room and gentlyid her on the bed. Rosa had already called for Dr. Nelson, who arrived swiftly.


    "Mr. Charles, let me tend to your wounds," Dr. Nelson said, his eyes filled with concern as he saw Charles'' blood-stained shirt.


    "See to her first," Charles replied, stepping aside to reveal Evelyn lying unconscious.


    "Yes, sir," Dr. Nelson said, though


    worried about Charles, he obeyed


    and examined Evelyn. "Ms. E


    fainted due to prolonged heart arrhythmia and emotional stress. Her body needs time to recover."


    Rosa''s anger red at the reminder of Evelyn''s condition. She struck Charles'' leg.with her cane. Her voice sounded sharp with reprimand. "This is your doing! You let that woman Dahlia lead you astray, locked Eve up, and nearly caused her death!"

 Chapter 107

    When Charles heard about the irregr heartbeat Evelyn acquired from being locked up and how she almost died from shock, he was shaken to his core. Yet, his instinct was to defend Dahlia. "Grandma, Dahlia had nothing to do with this," he said.


    "You!" Rosa was so enraged by Charles that she nearly lost her breath.


    "Please, help my grandma rest," Charles instructed the servants attending to Rosa. "Grandma, you wouldn''t want Evelyn waking up and worrying about you, would you?" he added, striking a nerve.


    "Hmph!" With a heavy snort, Rosa red at him fiercely before leaving the room.


    Charles remained inside the bedroom and casually removed his white shirt, revealing his back covered in crisscrossing whip marks. They were much worse than thest punishment Rosa ordered. The freshshesyered over old scars, creating a grim spectacle. Dr. Nelson quickly tended to Charles'' wounds. Throughout the treatment, Charles'' expression remained unchanged. He sat in the armchair, his gaze resting on Evelyn.


    Once Dr. Nelson finished tending to him, he was about to change the dressing on Evelyn''s finger. "Leave us," Charles said, asking him to leave the special ointment behind.


    After Dr. Nelson left, Charles moved to the bedside, gently unwrapping the bandages from Evelyn''s injured hand. The hospital had treated the wound, but it still clearly showed what she had endured. Charles'' throat tightened as if something was pricking at his heart, causing an ufortable sensation.


    He stared at Evelyn''s finger for a while, motionless. "Now you feel the pain for her?" Rosa''s voice came from behind him, her eyes scrutinizing. It seemed Charles still had some kindness left.


    Charles pressed his lips together and didn''t reply, quickly masking any flicker of emotion. He wouldn''t admit to feeling distressed.


    Rosa wasn''t about to let him off the hook. She noticed his reaction to Evelyn''s injuries and pulled out her phone, showing him photos the bodyguard had taken in the Greenrose basement. "Look at what you''ve done to Eve!"


    The door had been opened, and the rats inside were long gone. But the bloodstains left on the door were a haunting reminder. Charles'' eyes widened in shock. The difort he had tried to suppress rushed back, weighing heavily on his heart. No wonder she was so furious andshed out at him.


    "Take good care of Eve," Rosa said, seeing a glimmer of hope in Charles before leaving him to rest.


    After the bedroom door closed again, Charles picked up the ointment and began applying it to Evelyn''s wounds. His touch was gentle yet deliberate. Despite his care, the pain was sharp, as fingers are sensitive.


    In her daze, Evelyn furrowed her brows, cold sweat dampening her hairline. Charles paused, his gaze softening as he looked at her face. An image shed in his mind: before Dahlia and Sandy returned, he had seen a young Charlie holding Evelyn''s hand, blowing on her injured finger. "Mommy, if I blow on it, will it stop hurting?" Charlie had asked sweetly. Evelyn had smiled, touching Charlie''s head. "Yes, when you blow on it, I don''t feel the pain."


    Charles, almost without thinking, gently blew on Evelyn''s finger while applying the ointment. Whether it actually helped or not, Evelyn''s furrowed brow visibly rxed a bit. Encouraged, Charles focused on the task at hand, not noticing Evelyn slowly waking up.


    The tender care confused Evelyn;


    only Rosa had ever treated her so gently. Opening her eyes, she softly called out, "Gran..." but stopped short when she saw it was Charles. Her expression froze. Since Dahlia''s arrival, Charles hadn''t shown her


    such kindness; his er


    had


    been solely on Dahlia.


    Evelyn''s brief daze was fleeting. She quicklyposed herself, withdrawing her hand from Charles'' grasp. In her haste, her finger hit the edge of the bed, causing a sharp pain that made her gasp. Charles'' expression shifted, and he instinctively reached for her hand again, but she pulled away.


    She could handle this pain. Evelyn understood that Charles'' gentleness was a facade-a sugar-coated bullet. Beneath ity something far more dangerous. Facing Charles'' darkened expression, Evelyn sat up, her gaze icy. "Charles, quit


    pretending. I don''t need


    act. Let


    it go. I won''t change my mind about Dahlia."

 Chapter 108

    He allowed Evelyn to hit him in the family chapel and was now gently tending to her wound with one goal in mind: to soften her heart and convince her to let Dahlia go. Five years ago, Rosa was going to punish Dahlia so many times. Evelyn was head over heels for Charles then. A mere look from him, and Evelyn would find herself pleading with Rosa on his behalf, insisting she was okay. Evelyn just couldn''t stand to see him in any trouble. Back then, her love was so selfless and humble.


    "Evelyn, Dahlia just cares too much..." Charles began, but Evelyn''s face darkened immediately. Everything was just as she suspected. "I''ll say it again. I won''t release Dahlia early."


    Evelyn tossed the nkets aside, disregarding her weakened state, and pushed herself up from the bed. "Evelyn!" Charles frowned, reaching for her uninjured hand to pull her back, but Evelyn shook him off easily. "Don''t touch me."


    She got out of bed, her face icy, and headed for the door. Before she reached it, Charles'' phone rang. He paused and answered, "Sandy, what''s wrong?"


    "Daddy, where''s Mommy? I want Mommy. Where is she?" Sandy had been with Dahlia from the day she was born. Deep down, she clung to Dahlia fiercely. Waking up without Dahlia there for a long time scared her into thinking Dahlia didn''t want her anymore, so she called Charles, crying her heart out.


    "Sandy, it''s okay. Mommy will be at the hospital with you soon," Charles assured her gently. After a bit more soothing, he hung up and moved past Evelyn, ready to leave.


    "Charles, it''s not time yet," Evelyn said, grabbing his hand to stop him.


    "Enough, stop this nonsense!" Charles snapped, pulling his hand free and striding away. Evelyn had been locked up for so long. Now, she had locked up Dahlia, but that was just seen as causing trouble.


    As Charles reached downstairs, Rosa blocked his path. "Charles, where are you off to in such a hurry?" She hadn''t heard Sandy''s call but figured out he was rushing off because he couldn''t bear Dahlia''s suffering anymore.


    "Grandma, Dahlia''s been locked up for hours. The punishment''s enough. This won''t happen again," Charles stated, making his stance clear. Just like that, he glossed over all the hardship Evelyn faced in the basement.


    Rosa''s expression turned stormy.


    She had thought there was still some hope for Charles if he had feelings for Evelyn. After all, Evelyn loved him deeply. How could someone just stop loving someone? If he could just make things right with Evelyn, maybe they still had a chance.


    "Charles, I''m asking you onest time. What''s your deal with Eve? If you care for her, break things off with Dahlia. If not, I''ll start setting up dates for Eve tomorrow!"


    That made Charles pause slightly. He replied, somewhat cryptically, "Dates?" Then, he threw a knowing nce at Evelyn, standing at the top of the stairs, and chuckled. "Grandma, don''t bother yourself. She won''t go on any dates."


    With that, he left, confident that Evelyn was still madly in love with him and wouldn''t consider seeing anyone else. Rosa followed his gaze to Evelyn and cursed inwardly. This bastard! Rosa had only mentioned dating to test Charles, but seeing him choose Dahlia without hesitation made her stop trying to hold him back, and she finally made up her mind.

 Chapter 109

    Since Charles couldn''t see the wonderful person Evelyn was, Rosa figured she''d find someone who would truly appreciate and take care of her.


    Stepping up, she took Evelyn''s hand. "Eve, don''t worry, I''ve got you. I''ll find you someone special."


    "Grandma, I really don''t want to go on blind dates," Evelyn protested.


    Charles was right about her. However, it wasn''t because she was hung up on him, but because she had unfinished business-avenging Charlie. She couldn''t focus on anything else right now. Rosa spoke with heartfelt sincerity, "Eve, I just want to make sure someone has your back."


    She had always hoped Evelyn and Charles would end up together. Charles was her favorite grandson. She trusted Evelyn''s love for him. She knew Evelyn would treat him right.


    But with Dahliaplicating things, Rosa realized Charles couldn''t be relied upon anymore. Evelyn needed someone else to watch out for her.


    "Grandma, I don''t need anyone else. Having you around is more than enough," Evelyn said, leaning against Rosa''s shoulder.


    Rosa gave her a gentle pat on the head. "Oh, you sweet girl. I''d protect you forever if I could. But life has its way of reminding us that we''re only here for so long. I''m not sure how much time I have left..." She was well aware of her own limitations.


    "Grandma!" Evelyn''s eyes filled with tears, stopping Rosa mid-sentence.


    Rosa squeezed Evelyn''s hand. "Eve, while I''m here, I''ll do everything to keep you safe. But if I''m gone and there''s no one to look after you, I won''t rest easy."


    Evelyn finally nodded. "Okay, Grandma. I''ll trust you on this."


    ...


    When Charles entered the basement where Dahlia was held, the bodyguard followed Rosa''s orders, didn''t block him and respectfully opened the door.


    Charles was stunned by the scene in front of him. Dahlia''s biggest fear was snakes.


    "Dahlia." He rushed in without hesitation.


    She was pale and in a mess, lying on the ground with several snakes wrapped around her and more


    slithering nearby. Terrified to hem et


    core, her eyes were wide with fear, but when she saw Charles, she managed a faint, "Charles.


    Aiden quickly motioned for the bodyguards to clear the snakes away.


    Charles bent down, scooped Dahlia up, and kicked two bodyguards out of his path before striding out of the room.


    Once in the car, he took her straight to the hospital.


    After a thorough check-up, Dahlia was physically unharmed but mentally shaken. She leaned weakly against Charles. "Charles, I''m okay, but I need to see Sandy. She can''t be without me. I''m worried she''ll cry."


    Charles didn''t argue and took her to Sandy''s hospital room.


    "Mommy, I miss you." Sandy ran into Dahlia''s arms, clutching her tightly.


    Dahlia held Sandy close, soothing her softly. It waste, and Sandy quickly drifted off to sleep in her mother''s arms.


    Dahlia kissed her daughter''s


    forehead tenderly and tucked her in.


    In that moment, she let go of her brave front. She copsed into Charles'' embrace, trembling like a leaf caught in the wind.


    "Charles, I''m so grateful you got me out in time. I don''t know what would''ve happened if you hadn''t.


    "I was terrified. Why would Evelyn do this to me?


    "Why did she use snakes-the one thing I fear most-to scare and torture me?"

 Chapter 110

    Dahlia was quietly shedding tears, recounting to Charles the torment she endured in the basement. Every word she spoke was like adding fuel to Charles'' already simmering anger. She had vowed that she wouldn''t let Evelyn off the hook once she got out. As Dahlia continued her tale, Charles'' demeanor grew darker and more intense. Snuggled up in his arms, Dahlia couldn''t help but let a sly, triumphant smile slip.


    ---


    Evelyn decided against spending the night at Charles'' ce and instead headed over to Rosa''s, settling into her own room. She was deeply shaken. That evening, Rosa had the staff prepare some calming herbal tea for Evelyn and lit some soothingvender incense in her room. Evelyn hoped it would help, but as soon as she shut her eyes, the haunting images from the basement yed over and over in her mind. Sleep evaded her.


    Frustrated, Evelyn got up and fished out a couple of sleeping pills from her purse. She finally slipped into a restless sleep after tossing and turning for what felt like forever. But just as she was dozing off, she was yanked out of bed by a strong hand and startled awake by Charles'' icy voice slicing through the air. "Evelyn, how can you possibly sleep so soundly?"


    Groggy from the pills and the rude awakening, her mind was a foggy mess. It wasn''t until Charles flipped on the light and gripped her chin that the sharp pain snapped her back to rity. As she stared into Charles'' furious eyes, Evelyn''s expression turned icy. Why was she woken up like that?


    She reached up to wrench his hand away, spitting through gritted teeth, "Let go! Charles, are you out of your mind? Why did you wake me up at this hour?"


    "Out of my mind? Are you seriously asking that?" Charles didn''t let go. Instead, he tightened his grip. Evelyn winced in pain, tears springing to her eyes involuntarily. Unable to shake him off, she kicked at him in desperation. "What exactly did I do?" Evelyn retorted with a cold sneer.


    Her nonchnt tone only made Charles'' voice even icier. "You know exactly what you did. You know Dahlia''s petrified of snakes, yet you filled the basement with them just to scare her."


    Hearing this, Evelyn smirked even colder. "She used my worst fear rats against me. Why wouldn''t I do the same to her?"


    At the mention of rats, Charles flinched. His grip on Evelyn''s chin ckened. He had forgotten about the time when Evelyn was eight, and Sena locked her in the basement, but he remembered her deepest fear-rats. "Dahlia used rats?"


    Evelyn quickly brushed his hand away, her voice frosty. "I don''t want to wake Grandma. Leave."


    Charles left Evelyn''s room, his mind swirling with images of Dahlia crying and using Evelyn. His expression grew even darker. As he stepped out, his phone buzzed-it was Dahlia calling.


    "Charles, I''m so scared, I can''t sleep.


    Can you


    ignorance about Charles going after Evelyn for her. She timed her calt perfectly, curious to see how


    Charles would handle Evelyn for her sake.


    "Dahlia, why did you put rats in the basement where Evelyn was confined?" His sudden question blindsided Dahlia. She was about to deny it when she remembered-the basement had surveince cameras. Greenrose was originally wired with cameras everywhere, but she had insisted on removing them, keeping only the ones outside. However, she forgot about the basement camera.


    "Charles, it wasn''t on purpose. I thought Evelyn had sent that man to hurt us, and he hurt Sandy. When I saw Sandy injured, it tore me apart as a mother. And you wouldn''t send Evelyn to the police and only chose totock her in the basement

 Chapter 111

    "I got a bit carried away. That''s why I let a few rats loose. I did it to stand up for Sandy. Charles, I''m so crazy about Sandy. That''s why I did it." Sandy was her trump card. Charles adored Sandy. As long as it was for Sandy, Charles wouldn''t hold it against Dahlia.


    Dahlia realized Charles had stayed quiet. She softened her voice and sweet-talked him again, "Charles, I''m too scared to sleep now. Every time I close my eyes, all I see are snakes wrapping around me. Could youe to the hospital and keep mepany, please?" "It''ste. Try to get some rest."


    Charles replied sternly and hung up abruptly. When Dahlia mentioned the snakes, Charles couldn''t help but think of Evelyn, who was terrified of rats. Evelyn was trapped for so long, and he wondered if she''d also struggle to sleep tonight.


    ...


    After Charles left, Evelyn locked the door. But Charles was the head of the Jenkins family. Getting into any room, even Rosa''s courtyard, was no big deal for him. A servant brought him the key, and Charles opened the bedroom door. Evelyn had taken some meds that should''ve knocked her out for a few hours. But Charles woke her up. As shey back down, groggy from the meds, she quickly drifted off again, but her sleep was uneasy.


    Her nightmares blew up the fear of being overwhelmed by rats in the basement. When Charles walked in, he heard Evelyn quietly sobbing and murmuring, "Don''te closer... go away..."


    Her hands waved in the air as if she were shooing something away, and then she kept pping at it.


    "Charles... Charles... Charles..."


    "Let me out... please..."


    Her plea hit Charles like a dart to the heart. He sat next to her and gently wiped away the tears from her eyes with his thumb. The warmth of her tears felt like they could burn through his skin. Charles took off his jacket, lifted the covers, got into bed, and pulled Evelyn into his arms. His big hand softly patted her back,forting her.


    Whether it was the medication


    kicking in or Charles''forting


    touch, Evelyn gradually calmed


    down, nestled in his arms, and finally


    got some much-needed rest


    ...


    The next morning, Evelyn was woken up by Marian knocking on her door. Rosa called her for breakfast.


    Since Charlie''s death, a good night''s


    sleep had been rare. When she opened her eyes, she saw it was nearly eight. Why did her rm go off? She jumped out of bed, got ready quickly, and headed to the dining room.


    Her favorite breakfast wasid out on the table.


    "Morning, Grandma," Evelyn said as she sat down and started eating her porridge.


    "Eve, I''ve picked out a few dating prospects for you. Have a look."


    Evelyn didn''t really care about the dating prospects. She had no ns to seriously date anyone.


    "Grandma, I trust your judgment. You wouldn''t pick anyone bad. It''s gettingte. I''ve got to get to work."


    She had just started her job and had already taken a day off. Evelyn quickly finished her breakfast, smiled at Rosa, and headed out.


    "This girl," Rosa chuckled, looking down at the profiles she had picked from the Robinson family the night before. She was quite pleased.


    Around the dining room corner, Charles stood with a stern look on his face. Evelyn''s words echoed in his mind. Did she actually agree to a


    date? Did he say she couldee to a

 Chapter 112

    Evelyn hurried out the door, her steps brisk and urgent. As soon as she stepped outside, she spotted a sleek ck Maybach parked at the curb. Rosa had arranged for it to take her to work. She quickened her pace, pulling open the car door and sliding inside.


    The moment she settled in, Evelyn realized she wasn''t alone. Her gaze shot up, and through the dim light of the back seat, she saw him¡ªa tall, imposing figure leaning back, partially cloaked in shadow. It was Charles. He was holding an unlit cigarette. The filter bent out


    of shape. His eyes bore into hers with an intensity that sent a chill down her spine.


    Evelyn''s face dropped, and she froze for a second. She had no intention of sharing a ride with him. But before she could make a move to get out, Charles was faster. He flicked away the cigarette, reached out with his strong hand, and grabbed her wrist. With one swift motion, he pulled her back into the car and hit the button to close the door.


    "Drive!" hemanded in a deep, authoritative voice. The Jenkins family driver knew better than to defy Charles, so as soon as the order was given, the car rolled forward, the privacy screen sliding up to separate them from the driver.


    Everything happened so fast that Evelyn was caught off guard and fell against Charles, her nose colliding with his solid chest. The impact stung, and she blinked back tears of pain and frustration. Using the back of the seat for support, she tried to push away from him, her face a mask of cool defiance.


    But no sooner had she moved than Charles'' arm snaked around her waist, pulling her back with an iron grip. His hold was unyielding as if daring her to try to break free. Despite her best efforts, Evelyn was trapped.


    "Charles, what are you doing?" she snapped, struggling and breathing hard. It was a question she''d found herself asking more and more often.


    Pinning her against the door, his voice was as chilly as the winter wind. "Evelyn, who do you think you are agreeing to a blind date Grandma set up? Hmm?"


    "And why should it matter to you?" she shot back, sarcasm dripping from her words.


    "Evelyn, let me make this clear: you are not going on that date!" His voice was like ice, and his words left no room for argument.


    "Seriously? Who do you think you are to tell me what I can or can''t do? I''ve decided to go, and you can''t stop me!" Her eyes sparkled with defiance, recalling how, justst night, he had chosen Dahlia without hesitation. Rosa might have forgotten the past five years, but Evelyn hadn''t. She knew exactly what Dahlia meant to Charles, and it made his current behavior all the more absurd.


    "Who am I? You know exactly who I am, Evelyn. I''m your man!" His eyes were aze with anger.


    "My man? Please, I''d rather not have you! You are disgusting." she retorted, her voiceced with disdain.


    "Am I disgusting?" heughed, though it was more augh of fury than humor.


    "Evelyn, have you forgotten who you belong to just because I haven''t reminded you in a while?" His words struck her like a physical blow.


    "Charles, you wouldn''t dare!" she gasped, shocked at his audacity.


    But Charles was determined to


    show her just how far he was willing to go. The roomy back seat of the luxury car provided ample space for his intentions. Evelyn, still weary from her recent ordeal, was no match for his strength.


    "Charles, let me go!" Her face was pressed against the cold ss of the window, eyes zing with anger. She reached back, trying to w at him, desperate to escape his hold.


    Charles was intent on teaching her a


    lesson, and wasn''t about to let go. He deftly grabbed a tie, bound her, hands behind her back, and


    rendered her utterly defenseless. His chest pressed against her from behind, each inch of her body familiar territory to him.


    "So, are you still going on that date?" he demanded.


    Evelyn, caught between humiliation and rage, pleaded, "Charles, stop, don''t touch me!"


    Breathing heavily, his words were a heated whisper against her ear, "Do I not have the right to touch you?"


    Evelyn tensed, every part of her


    rejecting his proximity. At the same


    time, she''s also painfully aware of


    how well she knew him. Despite herself, she felt her ears warm under his deliberate touch. Clenching her jaw, she spat out, "No!"

 Chapter 113

    Charles'' dark, mysterious eyes lingered on Evelyn. Her earlobes were so red from blushing that they looked like they might actually bleed. His gaze grew even more intense. He let his eyes wander downwards. Her neck was exposed, a lovely shade of pink spreading across her skin.


    Charles'' breathing got heavier. He turned Evelyn''s face toward him, grasped her chin with hisrge hand, and leaned in for a passionate kiss.


    "Mmph!" Evelyn protested, trying to shake her head free from his kiss.


    Charles was determined. No matter how hard Evelyn tried, she couldn''t escape. The kiss went on until she was gasping for air, and only then did he release her lips slightly.


    Fuming, Evelyn took advantage of her momentary freedom. She bit down hard on the fleshy part of his hand. Her eyes, bloodshot with anger, red up at him.


    Charles let her bite him, acting as if he couldn''t feel the pain. He only seemed more resolute.


    The car had left the Jenkins family''s private drive and was now on the increasingly crowded roads typical of rush hour.


    The windows were tinted, making it impossible for anyone outside to see in. However, pressed against the ss, Evelyn often found herself locking eyes with other drivers at stoplights. Even knowing they couldn''t actually see her, Evelyn was so tense that her toes curled in her shoes.


    Charles gently kissed her sweat-dampened temple, his warm breath brushing her cheek. His lips curved into a smile, but his eyes were cold and sharp, feeling her pulse race beneath her skin.


    Charles pressed on, "Still going on those blind dates? Huh?"


    Evelyn didn''t want to give in.


    But Charles... He was a madman. She was genuinely scared he might lose it right there in the car.


    With his relentless pressure, Evelyn finally caved. Through gritted teeth, she muttered, "Fine, I won''t go!"


    Satisfied, Charles chuckled softly in her ear and captured her lips once more with his.


    This kiss was even more intense, leaving Evelyn breathless. When it ended, he pressed his forehead against hers, his voice husky. "Evelyn, remember, you''re mine."


    Evelyn was too exhausted to argue. As he released her hands, she leaned back against the car window, breathing heavily.


    She seemed to have finally quieted down.


    Charles enjoyed this calmer version of Evelyn. He kissed her eyelids gently.


    Satisfied, Charles was in high spirits. He helped straighten the clothes he''d mussed.


    Evelyn didn''t resist, keeping her eyes closed the whole time. Finally, as she had requested earlier, the car came to a stop at an intersection near her office. The driver stayed silent. He simply pulled over, waiting patiently.


    In the back seat, Evelyn slowly opened her eyes.


    Charles no longer held her back, sat up straight, and let her go. Before she stepped out, he warned her in a low voice, "Remember what I said." He barely finished when-


    "p!"


    The sound of a p echoed in the enclosed space.


    Evelyn, having stewed over it in the car, pped Charles just before getting out, her gaze icy cold.


    The p was so unexpected that it caught Charlespletely off guard. It was the second time Evelyn had pped him.


    Charles'' face darkened with anger, his teeth gritting. "Evelyn!"


    Evelyn didn''t give him a chance to grab her. She had nned her escape, Before his rage could erupt she swung her bag at his reaching hand. Using the opportunity, she jumped out of the car and left without looking back, leaving Charles'' fury behind.


    After venting her frustration and sessfullynding a p on Charles, Evelyn felt a weight lift off her chest. She jogged all the way to the office.


    As soon as she walked in, she saw colleagues gathered around Dahlia''s desk, offering their support.


    Only Grace noticed Evelyn''s


    entrance. She came over, asking


    with concern, "Evelyn, why didn''t you


    something happen after you drank too much the night before?"


    "No, I just wasn''t feeling well yesterday."


    Evelyn nced at Grace. Her words always seemed to carry an undertone.


    From nearby, Dahlia heard themotion and nced over.


    Taylor was still away on a business trip. Amanda had also stepped out. With nothing else to do, the three of them were getting used to their work environment like it was their first day.


    Thankfully, Dahlia didn''t bother Evelyn again and stayed out of her way.


    A peaceful day passed quickly. Before she knew it, it was time to clock out. Evelyn decided to stayte, diving into thepany''s past projects to learn more.


    Her phone rang from her desk. It was Rosa.


    Evelyn answered immediately. "Rosa."


    "Eve, have you seen Mr. Robinson yet?"

 Chapter 114

    Rosa was right on time, catching the end of the workday to check in on things. It took Evelyn a moment to piece together what Rosa meant when she mentioned Mr. Robinson-oh right, her blind date.


    "Is he downstairs at my office?" Evelyn asked, a bit surprised.


    "Yep! You were supposed to meet at a restaurant, but he figured since he was in the area, he''d pick you up. Eve, don''t keep him waiting and head down."


    Rosa was enthusiastic and clearly pleased with the setup she''d arranged.


    "Alright, I''m going now," Evelyn replied. She didn''t want to keep anyone waiting, quickly grabbed her things and made her way downstairs.


    Stepping out of the office, the first thing that caught her eye was a sleek ck Rolls-Royce. It was unmistakably Charles'' car. He was inside, making no move to get out. As the window lowered a fraction, Evelyn''s gaze locked with Charles''.


    Dahlia noticed Charles'' arrival, a flicker of surprise flickering in her eyes. She noticed his attention was on Evelyn, so she seized the chance to greet him, effectively blocking his view.


    "Charles is picking me up, so I''m off. Bye!" she announced to her colleagues, waving with a sweet smile before quickly slipping into the car. As the door closed, she leaned over to give Charles a quick kiss. The tinted windows kept their colleagues from seeing in, but it didn''t stop them from drawing their own conclusions.


    "Mr. Jenkins and Dahlia are such a perfect pair. Dahlia mentioned they''ve been together for years, and it''s amazing how close they still are. Mr. Jenkins must be really smitten toe get her from work."


    Evelyn''s gaze lingered momentarily before she noticed movement beside the Rolls-Royce. The door of a sleek, expensive car swung open, revealing a handsome, well-mannered man who stepped out with his eyes on Evelyn.


    "Ms. Evelyn, hello, I''m Michael Robinson," he greeted her with a courteous nod.


    "Hello, I''m Evelyn," she replied, matching his politeness. Rosa had rmended him, and Michael naturally made a good impression with his gentlemanly demeanor.


    "Do you have a preference for Italian or French?" Michael asked, holding the passenger door open for her.


    "Whatever you choose is fine," Evelyn said, not being particr.


    Just as she was about to get in, she felt an intense stare on her back. It came from the Rolls-Royce. Charles had lowered the window again, his eyes boring into her with a fiery intensity as if trying to pierce through her resolve. He sat there, gaze fixed on Michael''s profile, with a frown tugging at his brow.


    It seemed like she''d hop into any car that came along.


    "Charles, what''s up?" Dahlia asked, following his gaze toward Michael, her lips curling ever so slightly into a knowing smile. She pretended not to understand.


    Charles didn''t answer, choosing instead to pull out his phone. His fingers flew across the screen.


    Evelyn had barely settled into Michael''s car when her phone buzzed with a message. It was from Charles. She didn''t bother opening it. The notification shed on her screen.


    Charles: [Get out]


    Two words, no punctuation, loaded


    with his usualmanding tonez Evelyn''s eyes held a trace of


    mockery. He was busy kissing


    Dahlia yet still found time to interfere


    with her blind date ns.


    Unfazed, Evelyn ignored the message. As Michael got in, she locked her screen and slipped her phone into her bag.


    Charles'' gaze remained glued to the


    passenger door, but he didn''t see Evelyn get out. Instead, the car drove off. His expression turned stormy like a cier radiating cold, instantly bringing a chill to the car''s interior.


    Evelyn didn''t get out. She would learn her lesson.

 Chapter 115

    Dahlia watched the car disappear into the distance, a slight smile ying on her lips.


    ----


    "Mr. Brooks, I''m sorry. This blind date wasn''t really my idea, and I feel bad for taking up your time. You can just drop me off at the subway station," Evelyn said to Michael, her voice full of regret.


    "Funny enough, my family put me up to this, too. How about we grab dinner anyway, just to keep the folks happy?" Michael chuckled.


    "Alright," Evelyn agreed, feeling more at ease with his response.


    Michael drove them to the restaurant. They walked in together, keeping afortable distance between them, and headed to a private room that had been booked in advance. Ever the gentleman, Michael pulled out a chair for Evelyn. "Ms. Evelyn, can I get you some wine?" Michael asked politely.


    "Thanks, but I don''t drink," Evelyn replied with a smile, knowing her limits.


    Michael ordered himself a bottle of red wine and thoughtfully got Evelyn a hot drink.


    "Thanks," Evelyn said, appreciating his consideration. Michael seemed well-mannered, and since Rosa had specifically picked him out, Evelyn didn''t worry too much.


    Dinner was served soon after. As they ate, Michael noticed Evelyn hadn''t touched her drink. He raised his wine ss slightly. "Ms. Evelyn, it''s a pleasure meeting you." His gaze was warm as he watched her.


    Evelyn picked up her hot drink and gently clinked it against his wine ss. "Likewise."


    She took a polite sip. Michael watched her, and his smile grew even wider.


    The dinner was going smoothly until Evelyn suddenly felt off. She hadn''t touched any alcohol, yet a wave of dizziness hit her. Trying to shake it off, she inadvertently caused her knife and fork to slip from her hands and tter onto the te.


    Michael was quick to react. He got up, and leaned over the table. "Ms. Evelyn, are you okay?"


    His eyes darkened as he stared at her. He was now much closer than usual social norms would allow.


    Feeling faint, Evelyn instinctively stood up to move away but felt unsteady and had to grip the table to keep herself from falling. Despite not drinking, she felt drunk.


    Evelyn''s breathing becamebored; something was definitely wrong with that drink. She realized she''d been drugged! "Are you feeling unwell? Let me take you home," Michael said, moving closer and wrapping an arm around her waist. His facade slipped, eyes revealing a predatory glint. He ogled her shamelessly, drawn in by her beauty.


    From the moment Sena had sent him Evelyn''s photo, he''d been smitten. Her face, her figure-were irresistible.


    "Get off me!" Evelyn''s eyes burned


    with anger. She didn''t care why Rosa had picked such a creep. Her only thought was to escape. If she stayed in his clutches while drugged, the consequences could be dire


    Without thinking, Evelyn grabbed a knife from


    Mich the table and shed at


    arm. Blood oozed from the


    cut, and he yelped in pain, letting go of her.


    Evelyn seized the moment to back away, her blurry vision catching sight of the door.


    She bit down on her lip hard enough to draw blood, the pain cutting through the haze and helping her focus. She had to leave now.


    As she stumbled towards the door, she called out, "Help..."

 Chapter 116

    "You could scream all you want, but no one''s gonna hear you here."


    Michael had picked this restaurant for its top-notch privacy. The private rooms were famous for being soundproof. He nced at the cut on his arm with a wild glint in his eyes. Who would''ve thought that Evelyn, who seemed so gentle and quiet, could be so fierce? But he loved that fierceness. The wilder, the better.


    He moved forward with purpose. It was a grown man against a woman who was running out of strength to fight back. Evelyn lunged for the door, but before she could open it, Michael yanked her hair back, pulling her away from the exit. The door, barely ajar, swung shut with a soft thud.


    "Get away from me!" Evelyn shouted, swinging the knife in a desperate attempt to fend him off. But Michael was ready this time. He caught her frantic wrist in hisrge hand, squeezing until the knife slipped from her grip. Evelyn was now defenseless, was pulled into his arms, and held tightly.


    "Let me go!" she yelled, struggling with all her might. But her strength was fading fast, and her resistance made Michael more excited. The difference in their strength was too great; she was no match for him. Her body weakened, and a fire burned inside her, growing stronger despite her attempts to resist. It was torturous.


    Michael was eager to drag her to the elevator that led straight to a hotel room upstairs. He tossed Evelyn onto the bed, pulling out a vial from his pocket. He poured the contents into a ss of red wine and drank it down. While he was distracted, Evelyn seized the chance to bite down on her lip, determined to stay lucid before the drug took full effect. She had to get out of here.


    Gathering her remaining strength, she got up, wrenched the door open, and dashed out. This time, she made it. At the end of the long corridor stood a man-Charles.


    Even from a distance, Charles exuded an air of sophistication. Under the drug''s influence, Evelyn''s only thought was to escape, to avoid falling back into Michael''s clutches. Charles felt like finding a lifeline.


    She heard footsteps behind her. Michael was gaining on her. With tears in her eyes, Evelyn stumbled towards Charles, grabbed his arm, and instinctively pleaded, "Charles..."


    Charles looked down at her with a


    cool gaze, noting her flushed cheeks


    and disheveled state. A storm


    het


    brewed in his eyes as he harshly int grabbed her waist, pinning her to the wall. His hand gripped her chin, and his voice dripped with a hint of sarcasm. "Did you have fun on your blind date? Think you''ll try it again?"


    His words hit her like a cold shower, clearing some of the fog from her drugged mind. She understood the meaning behind his words. Suddenly, it all made sense why he was there. He''d been watching her from the start, ever since she left the office. She hadn''t listened when he told her to get out of the car, so he''d followed her here.


    He watched as Michael drugged her, letting things y out just to show her the consequences of defying him. Evelyn''s face turned pale as she bit her lip hard, staring at Charles


    with disbelief etched in her eyes.


    BUMS

 Chapter 117

    Did he ever think about what could actually go wrong? Or did he just not care?


    With her mind muddled by the drugs, Evelyn couldn''t keep her thoughts to herself anymore. Her voice cracked with emotion as she confronted Charles, "All because I didn''t do as you wanted and went on that blind date, you stood by and let him drug me? Why''d you let him take advantage of me? Is this how you teach me a lesson for not following your orders?"


    Charles didn''t say a word. His silence was as good as an admission.


    A chill ran through Evelyn, and with all the strength she had left, she shoved Charles away and leaned against the wall for support.


    Just as Charles was about to pull her back into his arms, the elevator doors slid open again.


    In walked Brooks, tall andmanding. He quickly reached Evelyn. "Ms. Evelyn, are you okay?"


    Since theirst meeting at the hospital, Evelyn hadn''t seen Brooks. They were from different worlds, so bumping into each other was rare.


    Evelyn looked at Brooks now and couldn''t muster the energy to wonder why he was there. Sensing her bewilderment, Brooks spoke gently, "Rosa set me up as your blind date. Sorry, I didn''t make it on time."


    Brooks was actually the man Rosa chosen for her. Evelyn grabbed his arm. Her gaze was unfocused, but she clung on desperately. "Get me out of here."


    Without a second thought, Brooks lifted Evelyn into his arms. As he moved to leave, Charles stepped in front of him.


    "Mr. Brooks, where are you taking my woman?" Charles put a heavy emphasis on "my woman."


    His eyes were like daggers aimed at Brooks'' hands around Evelyn.


    Brooks nced at Charles. Unlike thest time at the restaurant, he didn''t back down. He looked at Evelyn and was ready to respect her decision. "Ms. Evelyn, who do you want to go with?"


    He was supposed to be her date today. If Rosa was setting Evelyn up, her thing with Charles was over.


    "You! Take me away..." Evelyn didn''t hesitate, not bothering to look at Charles.


    Her words enveloped Charles in a


    dark cloud, his eyes cold as ice fixed on her. She had been drugged, but


    she dared to go with Brooks ve


    "Charles, I''m feeling dizzy."


    As he was about to follow them, Dahlia stumbled out of a room, grabbed his arm, and swayed as if she might faint.


    Evelyn was in Brooks'' arms as they entered the elevator, but she noticed this.


    No wonder Charles was on this floor. He''d been with Dahlia.


    The elevator doors closed in front of Charles, taking them down.


    "If you''re not well, go rest in your room." Charles didn''t even look at Dahlia and just pulled away from her grip.


    Impatient for the elevator, he dashed


    to the emergency stairs, taking.


    two at a time. He couldn''t let em


    tako


    away.


    "Charles..."


    Dahlia''s body swayed, and the moment Charles opened the door, she copsed with a "thud."


    This trick had always worked on Charles before, but this time, he acted like he hadn''t heard, leaving without a second


    "Thud."


    The door to the emergency staircase mmed shut behind him, echoing in Dahlia''s heart.

 Chapter 118

    Her eyes flew open, disbelief washing over her as she stared at the tightly shut door. Charles had actually left her behind to chase after Evelyn!


    By the time Charles dashed down the stairs, Brooks was already bundling Evelyn into a car. The vehicle sped off right before his eyes. Charles jumped into his car, and Aiden floored the elerator, racing after them.


    Sena hurried to the restaurant, arriving just in time to see Brooks carrying a clearly drugged Evelyn into the car. Jealousy red, turning her eyes a fiery red. ''Evelyn, that conniving bitch!'' Sena was livid when she found out Rosa had set Evelyn and Brooks up for a date. He was the man she''d been pining for. She wanted to run to Rosa and shout that Evelyn was a deceitful bitch and didn''t deserve Brooks.


    Evelyn had been with Charles for five years. He had used her up, and she even had his child. How could such a woman be worthy of Brooks? But her mother stopped her. Rosa couldn''t remember the past five years, and causing a stir would only get Sena in trouble with both her uncle and cousin.


    Fuming, Sena vented to Dahlia over the phone, railing about how unworthy Evelyn was. Dahlia suggested that if Sena thought Evelyn didn''t deserve Brooks, then she should set her up with someone who did. That was when Michael came to mind. She had him pick up Evelyn instead of Brooks, drug her, and close the deal. Sena''s job was to keep Brooks distracted.


    But she hadn''t counted on Brooks merely dropping her at the hospital, arranging for a nurse, and leaving immediately. Blinded by jealousy and rage, with nowhere to vent her fury, Sena turned it on Michael. That useless fool! She''d bought him time, and he still hadn''t managed to sleep with Evelyn.


    The more Sena thought about it, the angrier she got. cking in her high heels, she stormed upstairs, her rage boiling over. She reached Michael''s door, seething.


    Inside, the drug had taken a strong hold on Michael. He had seen Evelyn leave and was ready to drag her back, but when he opened the door, Charles and Brooks stood there Terrified, he quickly retreated to his room. After they were gone, the drug''s effects overwhelmed him. He was out of control and fiffed with an


    uncontroble desire.


    With bloodshot eyes, he dialed his phone, calling for a girl to be brought over. The doorbell rang, and with his mind muddled, he couldn''t remember how long it had been since he made the call. He assumed it was his delivery, and opened the door. Under the influence of the potent drug, he saw a woman standing there, didn''t register who it was, and pulled her inside.


    "Ah! Michael! Look closely. I''m Sena!


    If you touch me, you''re dead! Let go of me! Are you listening?" Sena''s anger turned to terror as she realized Michael had lost all reason. He couldn''t hear her furious shouts, and his hands began tearing at her clothes. Like a wild beast, he lunged at her savagely.


    Soon, the room echoed with piercing screams. Dahlia hadn''t caught up with Charles at the emergency exit, and was about to leave when she saw Michael dragging Sena into the room. Michael''s eyes were wild like a beast''s, and briefly met Dahlia''s.


    If Sena ended


    §ç§Ú§â


    in Michael''s hands


    tonight, it was over for her. But even


    knowing this, Dahlia''s gaze lingered on the closed door for just a moment before she turned away headed to the elevator, and pressed the down button. She walked away nonchntly as if she hadn''t seen anything.


    Sena was a foolish woman who prided herself on her wealthy background. Now, she was about to fall from grace, never to rise again. It would only make her loathe Evelyn even more.

 Chapter 119

    Just after the first red light, Charles'' speeding Phantom caught up with Brooks'' Maybach. He was sitting in the back and was absolutely livid. His voice sounded as cold as ice when he ordered, "Make them stop."


    Through the lowered window, Charles red at Evelyn in the back seat, his eyes burning with an anger that could set the world aze. Evelyn was fully aware that she was in a state beyond her control, but she still had the nerve to leave with Brooks. That sent Charles'' fury through the roof.


    He''d let Evelyn lock Dahlia away for hours and even tolerated her taking out her frustrations on him. Why couldn''t she just move on? She''d gone so far as to use a blind date to rile him up. She ignored his warning in the car that morning, and when things went sideways, instead of reflecting, she decided to push his buttons by leaving with Brooks. Didn''t she fear he might actually abandon her?


    "Yes, Mr. Jenkins."


    Upon hearing themand, Aiden floored the gas pedal, overtaking Brooks'' car with ease. He was a skilled driver and kept the pressure on Brooks'' car. Brooks remained calm, expertly handling the steering wheel. He could shake off Aiden, but Evelyn was with him, and he couldn''t be as reckless as Aiden, who seemed ready to risk it all.


    During the chase, Brooks caught a glimpse of Evelyn. She was struggling to stay seated and swaying with every sharp turn. In a moment of distraction, her head banged against the window.


    Brooks'' eyes narrowed. He eased up his foot poised over the elerator, allowing Aiden to force him to stop.


    Before the car had fully halted, Charles, wearing a frosty expression, swung open the door and got out. With his tall frame and long strides, he quickly reached Brooks'' car. He opened the back door, leaned in, and, without a word, pulled the slightly dazed Evelyn into his arms.


    "Out."


    His voice was cold, brooking no argument. Almost at the same time, Brooks pushed open his door, stepping forward to intervene, but Aiden blocked his path. Brooks face darkened, and he brushed Aiden''s hand aside. Aiden was no match for Brooks.


    Once free, Brooks grabbed Charles'' arm. "Mr. Jenkins, let''s keep this civil. Evelyn just said she wants to leave with me."


    "Do you always take a woman''s angry words to heart?" Charles held Evelyn tightly, his possessiveness evident as he pressed her to him, shielding her from Brooks'' gaze.


    "Are you sure it''s just anger and not what she truly wants?"


    Brooks''ment made Charles'' expression even stormier. He refused to believe that Evelyn''s choice to leave with Brooks was genuine.


    As Evelyn regained her senses, she caught Charles'' familiar, unique scent. Even though her heart had grown cold over the years, his scent was indelibly etched into her memory.


    Recognizing him, Evelyn immediately struggled to break free. "Charles, let me go...!"


    She couldn''t go with him. She trusted Brooks'' integrity. As soon as she got into his car, he''d already arranged for a doctor to meet them at the hospital. He was a gentleman for thinking of her well-being before she even asked.


    But Charles? He only took advantage when it suited him. She didn''t want his touch.


    Charles acknowledged Evelyn''s resistance, and the chill in his eyes intensified. Ignoring Brooks, he leaned down and kissed Evelyn''s slightly parted lips. She was heated from her fever.

 Chapter 120

    Brooks visibly flinched, his eyes narrowing in surprise. Aiden seized the moment to pull away Brooks'' grip on Charles'' wrist. Evelyn''s eyes widened in shock, and it took every ounce of her self-control not to shut them when Charles leaned in for a kiss. Instead, she turned her head, dodging his lips, which were irresistibly tempting when she was under the influence. Through gritted teeth, she hissed, "Get... off!"


    Evelyn was halfway inside Brooks'' car, her heart brimming with rage. Her hand feebly pressed against Charles'' solid chest as she tried to pull away, increasing the distance between them. Though she managed to create some space, her palm ended up right over his heart, feeling its strong, steady beats.


    "Thump-thump-thump-"


    The rhythmic heartbeat pulsated beneath her hand, sending waves of confusion through her mind. Each beat felt like an invitation she struggled to ignore. Her fingers tightened instinctively, determined not to give in to impulse. She was enduring more than she could bear. Charles leaned in, his cool lips brushing against Evelyn''s ear. He didn''t pull away but whispered in a voice only they could hear, "Evelyn, do you want me to do more right here in front of Brooks?"


    His words were delivered like a lover''s murmur, and their intimate posture made Evelyn feel a chill. She understood the threat. The kiss he nted in front of Brooks was a warning. If she dared to leave with Brooks, what he nned next wouldn''t be as simple as a kiss. Evelyn bit her lip hard, turned her head, and red at Charles, meeting his intense and dangerous gaze. He was serious. When Charles was pushed to the edge, there were no limits to what he might do. She couldn''t afford to take that risk.


    Reluctantly, Evelyn stopped


    resisting, allowing Charles to pull her back into his arms. Brooks couldn''t hear their exchange, but he noticed Evelyn''s surrender and loosened his grip on Aiden''s arm. His eyes stayed on Evelyn, ready to intervene if she showed any hesitance to teave with Charles.


    Aware of Brooks'' watchful gaze, Charles scooped Evelyn up and turned, shielding her from Brooks'' sight as he strode toward his parked Rolls-Royce. Aiden had the backseat door open and ready. Evelyn was gently ced inside, and as the door shut, Brooks'' gaze waspletely cut off.


    Once inside the car, Aiden raised the partition. Evelyn was left in the dimly lit backseat, sprawled across the seat. Her sweat made her long hair cling to her shoulders like seaweed, framing her face. She breathed heavily, trying to pull herself up.


    As Charles leaned in again, she recoiled to one side, raising a defensive hand to push him away. Her eyes were zing with anger, and her bodynguage screamed defiance. "Charles, don''t touch me!"


    Charles'' eyes were icy, and his chest rose and fell with intensity. With a swift motion, he caught her wrist and effortlessly pulled Evelyn into his embrace. His strong hand gripped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. His voice was frigid. "If not me, then who? Brooks?"


    "Yes!" Evelyn shot back without


    hesitation, her voice firm and unyielding. Choosing to go with Brooks meant trusting his integrity. She knew he''d get her to a hospital without taking advantage of her vulnerability. But more than that, she wanted to make things difficult for Charles.

 Chapter 121

    She knew his possessiveness was through the roof-he couldn''t stand the thought of another man evening near her. Fueled by anger, Evelyn swung her hand to hit Charles, but her attempt was easily caught. Undeterred, she tried again with her other hand, aiming for his face, only to have it captured just as swiftly. He held both her hands effortlessly in one of his own, pinning her against the car door. With his free hand, he smoothly slipped off his tie and bound her hands together, tying a secure knot behind her back to keep her from causing any more trouble. Despite the odds, Evelyn continued to resist fiercely, like a hedgehog bristling with defiance.


    Charles'' chest heaved with emotion, the anger in his eyes sharp and clear. His grip on Evelyn''s waist was so tight it seemed he might snap her in two. She winced from the pain, biting down hard and struggling even more fiercely. Her voice was a mix of rage and desperation as she shouted, "Charles, you''re despicable!"


    His eyes, dark and stormy like the rainy sky, were filled with anger that seemed to ebb away slightly upon witnessing Evelyn''s struggle. She was doing her best to fight against him, but his calcted charm made her inch closer, even against her will. This reluctant response embarrassed and frustrated her, her eyes welling up with emotion.


    "Charles, get away from me!" she cried, trying to push him back with all her might. Her logic was on the brink of crumbling, her emotions were a mess, and tears were threatening to spill. "Just take me to the hospital!" she pleaded, broken but undeniably captivating in her vulnerability.


    Charles'' breathing was all over the ce as he held her close. He threaded his fingers through her sweat-drenched hair, pulled her head back, and brought her lips back to his. His rough, low voice murmured against her lips, "I''m here."


    "I don''t want this!" Evelyn spat, her entire presence radiating resistance. She knew he''d take advantage of her vulnerable state. Ever since Charlie died, she''d been numb, fending off Charles time and again. Now, he sensed an opportunity and wasn''t about to let it slip by.


    The car kept rolling towards Oakwood Manor as the streetlights streamed in through the windows. The light danced across his handsome face, and his gaze on Evelyn was intensely possessive. The air inside the car grew thick with tension. Just when Evelyn thought she wouldn''t escape, she felt a


    change.


    At first, she couldn''t be sure, but then a familiar pain red in her abdomen. Tears slipped down her cheeks as her body went ck, copsing into Charles'' arms. He shifted, pinning her beneath him on the seat.


    But then he froze, time seeming to


    halt. He lifted himself slightly, bracing his arms around Evelyn. The glow of the streetlights allowed him to take in the sight of her on the seat Completely surrendered, she looked like a siren, her allure inescapable.


    She sensed him release her lips and wrapped her arms around his neck, her eyes full of sultry intent. Using her arms to lift herself, she leaned in, seeking out his lips once more and kissing him deeply as soon as she found them.

 Chapter 122

    It''s like he stumbled upon his own personal oasis, and once their lips met, there was no turning back. Despite his overwhelming desire, he held back, knowing there was nothing more he could do for now. Charles'' eyes darkened, a telltale sign of his inner turmoil. As he swallowed hard, his Adam''s apple bobbed noticeably. With a voice rough from emotion, he directed the driver, "Get us to the hospital."


    After giving the order, Charles pulled Evelyn close, nestling her on hisp. He cupped her chin and kissed her with a fierce intensity. Though he couldn''t take things further, he never let her go throughout the drive. Each kiss left her breathless, only to be followed by another, blurring the lines of who was tormenting whom. It wasn''t until they rolled into the hospital parking lot that Charles finally released Evelyn''s lips, now swollen and tender from his relentless kisses.


    At Charles'' nod, Aiden nervously stepped out and opened the back door, keeping his eyes trained on the ground. He wished he could block out the world; he understood all too well the depths of Charles'' possessiveness. One extra nce at Evelyn in her current state could cost him dearly.


    Charles bundled Evelyn in his coat, wrapping her up snugly. Evelyn had lost all sense of reality and was driven purely by instinct. Her legs wrapped around his waist, and she clung to him like a lifeline. She squirmed in his arms, seemingly trying to escape, but his firm grip held her in ce. Evelyn''s face nestled against his neck, her lips brushing against his throbbing artery with each breath, sending warm sensations through him. Though her body was restrained, her lips were anything but.


    Charles was wound tight, every muscle tense. The tables had turned. He''d put Evelyn through so much in the car, and she was now dishing back out, keeping him on edge. The short trip from the basement to the upper floor left Charles drenched in sweat, and his body was strung taut like a bowstring. As they arrived, a visible relief washed over him.


    A doctor awaited them, ready with a prepared antidote for Evelyn. As the remedy began its work, they returned to the room, where Evelyn continued to test Charles'' patience for another half-hour. Just as his self-control was about to shatter, she finally settled down. The hour had been a trial for him, yet it also drained herpletely.


    Once the antidote took effect, she slumped into his arms, falling into a deep sleep. "How can one person be so flirty?" Charles muttered, his gaze as dark as midnight. Frustrated, he pinched Evelyn''s cheek harder than intended, leaving a deep red mark on her skin. Her sleepy whimper only fueled his agitation further.


    He released her and grumbled, "Next time, I''ll have my revenge." He carried her to the bathroom to quickly freshen them both up. After dressing her in fresh clothes and pads Aiden had arranged, heid her, now refreshed, on the hospital bed. Ovee with fatigue, Evelyn curled up and drifted into a peaceful slumber.


    Charles stood by her bedside, tucking her in gently before stepping out of the room. Outside, Aiden greeted him with respect, "Mr. Jenkins."

 Chapter 123

    "Bring Michael over," Charles demanded, his voice cold and edged with unrestrained fury. That man actually had the guts to drug Evelyn.


    At the hotel, Michael, under the influence of the drug, had no patience for the bed and instead threw Sena onto the floor as soon as he dragged her into the room. He raised his hand without a moment''s hesitation. "No!" As her screams filled the air, her clothing was torn apart.


    Raised in luxury, proud and haughty, Sena could only ever imagine someone like Brooks being worthy of her. The notion of Michael touching her was intolerable.


    "Let go of me!" She struggled violently, then swung and managed to p Michael hard across the face. Caught off-guard, he staggered back. Sena seized the moment, and wed at his face with her manicured fingers. This time, Michael grabbed her hand. His eyes were bloodshot, the look of a wild beast that had lost all reason. The more Sena fought, the more savage he became. He raised his hand again and pped her repeatedly.


    The ps were ruthless, leaving Sena bleeding from the mouth, dazed and unable to resist as shey on the floor.


    For a full hour at the doorstep,


    Michael unleashed a brutal assault on Sena. Her tears had dried up, her voice was hoarse from screaming and the excellent soundproofing meant that no one outside could hear her cries for help. Far from attracting rescue, her screams only fueled Michael''s frenzy and he


    became even more violent.


    Eventually, Michael lifted Sena from the floor. Her body was limp, like a broken doll. He dragged her to the bed and tossed her onto it. Euphoric in his delirium, he was oblivious to who she was; he only recognized that she was a girl, and right now, he craved a girl. Sena, though dazed and in pain, refused to stop resisting. Frantically, her hands searched around her and found an icy object. It was an ashtray. Her swollen, tear-filled eyes widened in realization.


    As Michael grabbed her legs again and dragged her towards him, Sena tightened her grip on the ashtray. As he leaned in, she swung it hard at his head, the force of her blow fueled by deep leathing. At first, Michael didn''t fall His eyes, as bloodshot as hers, glinted with a twisted excitement.


    Shocked by his resilience, Sena struck him again without hesitation. This time, the ashtray connected with his forehead. Michael paused as if time slowed, then his body swayed and he copsed onto the bed, blood spurting from his forehead.


    Sena''s pupils dted in shock at the sight of blood, and she flung the ashtray from her hand as if it were scalding hot. Without lingering to assess Michael''s condition, she stumbled off the bed, her legs shaking.


    Grimacing in pain, she scrambled to


    the door, and snatched up her clothes. She dressed hastily, wrapped herself in her coat, and bolted from the room, fleeing the hotel at full speed. It was only once she felt safe from that nightmare that Sena pulled out her phone and dialed Dahlia''s number.


    As soon as the call connected, she burst into sobs, "Dahlia..."

 Chapter 124

    The hotel staff found Michael all battered and bleeding, and they quickly rushed him to the hospital. Sena had endured Michael''s torment for far too long. When she hit him, she put her whole heart into it, but all it did was crack his head open, knocking him out cold. Once patched up, Michael stormed out of the ER, muttering curses under his breath, determined to find the audacious person who dared to attack him that night. But as soon as he stepped out of the hospital, someone mped a hand over his mouth and dragged him into a shadowy corner.


    There stood a tall, imposing figure. The air around the man was thick with menace. Michael was tossed at his feet.


    He looked down at Michael with a brooding expression, his eyes as cold as death. The icy fear emanating from him silenced Michael, who instantly sensed danger and nced up, petrified, into Charles'' chilling gaze. "Mr. Jenkins..."


    The moment Michael saw Charles, his blood ran cold. He realized he had messed with someone he should never have crossed. Fear gripped him, and he tried to scramble up, desperate to escape the dangerous man before him.


    But as he moved, Charles pressed his foot onto Michael''s hand. "Those hands touched Evelyn; you won''t be needing them anymore."


    "No, please!" Michael begged.


    Before he could scream, Charles crushed his hand with ruthless force. "Ah!" Aiden quickly muffled Michael''s scream.


    Michael broke out in a cold sweat from the pain. When Charles finally stepped back, the hand was useless. Without missing a beat, Charles raised his foot again.


    Michael wanted to bolt, but Charles'' overwhelming presence kept him frozen. He had to watch as Charles'' foot came down on his other hand, rendering it useless, too.


    As Charles lifted his foot a third


    time, Michael''s eyes widened in terror. Unable to support himself


    with his Ruined hands, he tried to et


    squirm away, but there was no escaping. Charles'' foot came down hard, and Michael cked out from the pain.


    "Take him to the police station. I don''t want to see him roaming free again," Charles said, walking away.


    "Yes, Mr. Jenkins," Aiden replied, dragging Michael out of the alley like a ragdoll and tossing him into the trunk of a car. He got in the driver''s seat and headed for the police station.


    ...


    Dahlia wasted no time driving over after getting a call from Sena. Once she arrived at the spot Sena mentioned, she called her back.


    Sena picked up quickly, and Dahlia''s voice was anxious. "Sena, I''m here. Where are you?"


    Just as she spoke, she spotted Sena stumbling out from the shadows. But instead of rushing out, Dahlia stayed in the car, watching with satisfaction as Sena approached. Her Cheeks were swollen, and her appearance was a mess.


    Though Dahlia hadn''t managed to drag Evelyn down this time, seeing the once-proud Sena brought down so low was a sweet victory.


    After savoring the sight for a moment, Dahlia put on a concerned face, jumped out of the car, and rushed to Sena, her eyes welling up with fake concern. "Sena, what happened to you?" "Dahlia..." Sena mumbled, running out of the hotel,pletely lost. This whole ordeal had torn her world apart. The first person she thought to turn to was Dahlia.


    Tonight, she and Dahlia had plotted


    to drug Evelyn and ruin her life-a scheme that only Dahlia knew


    about. Finding Dahlia felt like finding solid ground, and Sena copsed into her arms, sobbing, "I''m not worthy of Brooks anymore. What am I going to do?"

 Chapter 125

    Sena never really thought much of Dahlia; to her, Dahlia and Evelyn were pretty much the same people. Girls like them had no real background and were straight out of the slums. How could they ever be good enough for Charles?


    But Dahlia turned out to be nothing like that troublemaker, Evelyn. At first, Sena treated Dahlia pretty poorly, but Dahlia was willing to stand up for Sena in a very dangerous moment. Thanks to Charles'' quick save, that knife didn''t touch Dahlia, but it could have been fatal.


    If Dahlia hadn''t pushed Sena away, it would have pierced Sena''s heart.


    Dahlia had saved Sena''s life, but she never really used that as her leverage. She didn''t expect anything in return. Even more, whenever Charles was about to punish her, Dahlia would always step in and defend her. With aforting pat on the back, Dahlia gently urged, "Sena, be good, let''s get in the car first."


    Once the car door shut, Sena couldn''t hold it together anymore and started sobbing uncontrobly. Through her tears, she recounted everything that had happened to Dahlia. Dahlia listened with an empathetic expression. As Sena cried, Dahlia''s eyes welled up, too, showcasing the deep bond of sisterhood.


    After Sena had let it all out, Dahlia handed her a wet wipe to dry her tears. "Dahlia, was I wrong?" Sena asked, feeling a pang of regret after her outburst.


    "If I hadn''t gotten Michael to drug Evelyn..." Sena wondered if things might have turned out differently.


    "Sena, that''s nonsense. How could this be your fault?" Dahlia interrupted, looking even more upset than Sena with red-rimmed eyes. She gently touched Sena''s swollen cheeks, choking up. "You''ve loved Mr. Brooks for years and always wanted to marry him. You''re meant to be, right?"


    Sena had just gone through a major blow, and her mind was a mess. Her gut reaction, after such a terrifying experience, was to regret pushing Michael into drugging Evelyn, which had led to this mess. But after hearing Dahlia''s words, it all suddenly seemed clear. What had she done wrong?


    Brooks should have been hers if not


    for Evelyn''s flirty ways. Evelyn used to be with Charles, and now she shamelessly tried to steal Brooks away. How could she not have plotted against Evelyn? Evelyn was acting so low, so she deserved to be messed around by Brooks. But why did she run away from him? If Evelyn hadn''t, none of this would have happened, and she would''ve gone through the suffering Sena went through! It was all that bitch Evelyn''s fault!


    "Evelyn!" Sena''s eyes red with a wild hatred.


    Dahlia, seeing the hatred in Sena''s eyes, softly soothed her, "Sena,e over to my ce, take a


    shower, and change your clothes et


    Don''t worry. Michael was drugged and does


    doesn''t know it was you. As long as we keep quiet, no one will find out, and you''ll still the perfect


    match for Brooks."


    "Can I really still marry Brooks?" Sena asked, her eyes red and full of hope as she watched Dahlia.


    "Of course, who else could be more suited for him than you?"


    Those words hit Sena right where it mattered, and she nodded fiercely. No one else in this world but her could ever be good enough for Brooks.


    ...


    Evelyn hadn''t been out for long; the night''s events had kept her on edge. Not long after Charles left the room, she slowly came to, openingcher eyes to a sea of white.

 Chapter 126

    The sharp scent of disinfectant in the air confirmed that Evelyn was in a hospital. She had just woken up, but her mind was still a bit foggy. Herst clear memory was in the car, with Charles taking advantage of her vulnerable state and trying to seduce her. Under the influence of the drug, her defenses fell away, piece by piece. But just when she thought Charles might get his way, she realized her period had started, making her stop resisting. Even if Charles didn''t love her, there was no way he''d force himself on her during her period, so he had no choice but to take her to the hospital.


    After that, everything was a blur. Evelyn didn''t linger on the memories of being drawn to Charles under the influence. As she slowly sat up in bed, she nced around the empty hospital room, a wry smile forming on her lips. How typical. Charles couldn''t get what he wanted, so he just dropped her at the hospital and left without a moment''s pause.


    She didn''t dwell on it and got out of bed. The drug''s effects had worn off; she was fine now. As she left the hospital, a gust of cold wind hit her, and she realized she''d left her purse at the restaurant. Her phone was in it. She was without a dime, but just as she was figuring out how to get home, a ck Maybach pulled up beside her.


    The car door opened, and Brooks stepped out. His gaze settled on Evelyn, briefly scanning her under the dim streetlights. Once he confirmed she was okay, he spoke softly, "Let me give you a ride home." "Thanks," Evelyn replied, not hesitating to get into Brooks'' car.


    "Mr. Brooks, could you take me to the Jenkins Estate?" she asked. Rosa had promised to wait up for her. If she didn''t make it back, Rosa would surely be worried. "Of course," Brooks replied, his voice gentle as ever.


    The car merged smoothly into traffic. "I''m sorry about my tardiness, which gave Michael the chance to cause trouble. Don''t worry, I''ll make sure he''s held ountable." Michael wouldn''t get away with it easily.


    "It''s not your fault," she murmured. The night''s events still haunted her, but she had no intention of ming Brooks.


    The rest of the ride was silent.


    ...


    Forty minutester, the ck


    Maybach rolled up to the entrance of the Jenkins Estate. "Thank you, Mr. Brooks," Evelyn said, unbuckling her seatbelt just as Tony approached with a warm smile.


    Brooks recognized him as Rosa''s butler. His status allowed him to stay seated and converse through the window, but Brooks unbuckled his seatbelt and stepped out giving a ned in acknowledgment.


    Seeing Brooks get out, Tony''s smile broadened. He knew exactly what this meant. If Brooks didn''t care about Evelyn, he wouldn''t bother acknowledging a butler like him. "Mrs. Jenkins heard you brought Miss Evelyn back and would love to invite you in for a cup of tea," Tony said.


    Rosa was an elder, and Brooks'' upbringing wouldn''t let him refuse such an invitation.


    "Alright," Brooks agreed.


    This unexpected invitation caught Evelyn by surprise. She had nned to invite Brooks to dinner in a few days to thank him.


    Tony warmly escorted Brooks inside. Seeing Brooks and Evelyn walking in side by side, Rosa beamed with satisfaction, her eyes crinkling with delight. "Grandma Rosa."


    "Grandma Rosa."


    Evelyn and Brooks greeted her in unison. Rosa took Evelyn''s hand affectionately and turned to Brooks. "Brooks, please, have a seat. I have Eve make you some tea. Shebrews a wonderful cup."

 Chapter 127

    "Alright."


    Brooks nced up at Evelyn. The light from the living roommp was just right, and it seemed to add a certain glow to his gaze, making it almost impossible for Evelyn to meet his eyes directly. Unable to handle the intensity, she instinctively looked away and headed to the tea room for a breather.


    After exchanging a few words with Brooks, Rosa found a reason to join Evelyn in the tea room.


    Evelyn was busy making tea when Rosa came in, and she greeted her with a warm "Hey, Grandma." "What do you think of Brooks, Eve?"


    Rosa was quite taken with Brooks. When setting Evelyn up, the Robinson family was the obvious choice. Brooks was her first thought, but she knew that while she saw Evelyn as a perfect match for anyone, Brooks might not see it the same way.


    Rosa wanted to find a strong, supportive partner for Evelyn, not put her in a position where she''d feel undervalued. So, she initially passed on Brooks, opting instead for the youngest son of the Robinson family. He might not have much power, but his close bond with Brooks meant Evelyn would be well-protected as his sister-inw.


    To her surprise, Brooks had already agreed before she could even suggest anyone. At first, Rosa thought he had mistaken Evelyn for Sena, but it turned out Brooks was genuinely interested in Evelyn.


    ""He''s really nice..."


    But...


    Before Evelyn could finish her thought, Rosa shed a huge grin, interrupting with, "Tea''s no good if it''s cold."


    She motioned for the servant to bring the tea, and Evelyn''s words were left unsaid as Rosa led her back to the living room.


    They settled back into their seats, with Evelyn on Rosa''s left and Brooks to her right.


    "Brooks, give Eve''s tea a try. Does it suit your taste?" Rosa asked, her wordsced with a hint of something more.


    Brooks was sharp as a tack, and caught on immediately. He took a sip, savored it thoughtfully, and then turned to Rosa. "It''s perfect, just the


    way I like it." Content belost the


    Hispliment made Rosa''s smile widen even more as she seized the opportunity, "And what about Eve?" Her question was almost rhetorical.


    "Even better," Brooks replied, looking straight at Evelyn, his admiration crystal clear.


    Evelyn was caught off guard and speechless from the moment the tea was mentioned. Brooks'' open affection left her a bit flustered. "Eve thinks the world of you, too!" Rosa chimed in before Evelyn could gather her thoughts.


    Brooks'' gaze grew even softer.


    In that moment, Evelyn felt a sharp, intense gaze on her, an invisible pressure pressing down. She


    101


    instinctively turned to find Charles cold stare fixed on her. Her eye''s cooled as she recalled the night''s events.


    Rosa noticed Evelyn''s gaze shift to Charles and felt a pang of disappointment.


    Charles didn''t appreciate Evelyn. Did he really think she couldn''t find someone better? There were plenty of great guys who''d be thrilled to be with Evelyn.


    ¡°Charles, just in time. I know you and


    Brooks are business rivals, but our families will be one from now on.


    Keep things civil, don''t make it ugly, and don''t put Eve in a tough Spot."


    Charles caught the drift of Rosa''s message, his expression darkening.

 Chapter 128

    "Did I miss something?" Charles'' lips curved slightly, his tone giving nothing away, as he sauntered in with long strides. He shrugged off his coat, handing it to a waiting servant, and headed toward the sofa, sneaking a nce at Evelyn before settling down across from the group. As he crossed his legs, he maintained his usual aloof demeanor, and angled himself slightly toward Brooks. Maybe it was just too warm inside with the heat on, but he casually unbuttoned two buttons of his shirt, revealing his elegant neck. With a sly smile, he adjusted his cor. From Brooks'' angle, he could spot the faint red love bites peeking out from under it. Judging by their fresh color, they weren''t from long ago. No need to guess who left them.


    Those marks told a story of someone who hungrily imed Charles'' body, leaving such passionate traces on his skin. Brooks'' eyes darkened, reading the silent challenge in Charles'' demeanor. Charles didn''t need words to stake his im; silence was enough. After all, he had often asserted in front of Brooks that Evelyn was his woman.


    Rosa, meanwhile, missed Charles'' little game and only caught hisid-back, indifferent vibe. "You''ve missed quite a bit," she almost said out loud. She knew now that, to Charles, Evelyn was just an option, not a priority. If he truly cared, how could he stay soposed with a serious contender like Brooks in the room?


    When Rosa arranged a blind date for Evelyn, there was a hint of personal motive. She had intentionally let Charles know about it, hoping to stir something in him. But based on Charles'' current attitude, it would only bring Evelyn misery. Rosa couldn''t rest easy with that thought.


    Abandoning the idea of getting


    Charles and Evelyn together, Rosa bluntly announced, "Brooks and Eve had a blind date today, and they really hit it off." Charles'' eyes


    clouded even more at the mention


    of mutual affection. A mentet


    was


    cast over his gaze as he watched Evelyn. His question was loaded. "Is that so?"


    That look was a warning Evelyn couldn''t ignore. She knew exactly what Charles was implying. In front of Rosa, he was urging her to deny any feelings for Brooks. His possessiveness was ring up. He wouldn''t stand for it. Evelyn''@smile was icy. She had no intention of following Charles'' bidding. Why should she?


    However, she didn''t want to drag Brooks into her tangled history with Charles and Dahlia. For a moment, Evelyn was caught in a tough spot. The word "Yes" was on her lips, but she couldn''t bring herself to say it.


    "Yes!" Brooks'' gentle tone brought her back. She turned to him, surprised. With a soft nce at her, Brooks then faced Charles, his voice calm but firm, "I n to pursue Evelyn properly." This was his answer to Charles'' earlier silent taunt. Those love bites were meant to scare him off, but he was unfazed.


    "Mr. Brooks, do you not know who she really is?" Charles challenged, a smile ying on his lips that didn''t warm his eyes. Only a chill lurked within their depths. Charles spoke in riddles in front of Rosa, who had forgotten about his and Evelyn''s connection. But Evelyn and Brooks caught on. He had already imed Evelyn, and beyond that, she had given him a daughter.

 Chapter 129

    When Rosa heard Charles'' remarks, she felt a stab of pain, believing Charles was dismissing Evelyn and using her status to hurt her. Rosa''s face clouded over, and she shot Charles a fierce look.


    Even though Brooks was present, Rosa didn''t entirely shield Charles from the consequences of his words. She didn''t bother to hide her displeasure either, gripping Evelyn''s hand tightly and silently offering herfort. With a hint of sternness, Rosa addressed Charles,


    "What status are you talking about? Haven''t I made it clear? Eve is my granddaughter and a part of the Jenkins family."


    This hadn''t been publicly dered before because of Charles and Evelyn''s situation. If it became official, they''d be siblings, making their rtionship inappropriate. Yet, she never imagined Charles would use this against Evelyn someday.


    "I''ll choose a good day to officially make Eve my granddaughter. From then on, she''ll be recognized as a member of the Jenkins family," Rosa dered, both to chastise Charles and elevate Evelyn''s standing in front of Brooks, decisively cutting off any chance of Charles and Evelyn being together.


    Charles''posure crumbled, his eyes darkening with a stormy intensity.


    "Brooks, it''s gettingte. You should head home and get some rest. Eve, would you mind seeing Brooks out?" Rosa, simmering with frustration, patted Evelyn''s hand and stood up from the couch. She didn''t spare Charles another nce. Charles was truly horrible, and nothing he said was bearable.


    "Sure," Evelyn and Brooks chimed in unison, locking eyes for a brief moment. From Charles'' vantage point, the room seemed to chill a few degrees. Evelyn ignored this and stood to escort Brooks out.


    Charles remained on the couch, watching the pair leave together. His expression grew colder, and his gaze almost menacing as it followed Evelyn.


    Silence hung in the air. As Evelyn passed by the household staff, she kept her words to herself. It wasn''t until they reached Brooks'' car that she spoke, "Mr. Brooks, can we chat for a moment in the car?"


    Hearing her formal address, Brooks'' eyes flickered with a hint of disappointment, though he kept it hidden, and responded warmly, "Of course."


    He courteously opened the car door for Evelyn, shielding her head as she got in, then moved to the driver''s side and joined her inside.


    "Mr. Brooks, going on that date


    wasn''t really my idea. Rosa has been incredibly kind to me, and when she suggested it, I couldn''t bring myself to refuse, so I went along with it," Evelyn exined candidly. "Rosa misunderstood me. When I said you were kind, I meant you''ve helped me a lot and are genuinely a good person."


    Brooks listened intently. "Are you still in love with him?" he asked, referring to Charles. His face was obscured by the shadows cast by the lights at the entrance of the Jenkins family estate.


    "No," Evelyn replied without hesitation. She knew he was talking about Charles. "I''m not in the right ce for love right now."


    With Charlie''s revenge still unfulfilled, her heart wasn''t open.


    Brooks spoke gently, "In that case, how about we join forces?"


    "Join forces?" Evelyn looked at Brooks, puzzled.


    Brooks switched on the car light. Under its glow, he seemed different from the man in the living room earlier. The usual slight smile was gone, reced by a serious demeanor. His eyes were sharp, his voice steady and calm. "You''re not interested in blind dates but don''t know how to turn Rosa down. You''ve cleared things up with me today, but once Rosa hears our date didn''t pan out, she''ll continue setting you up."

 Chapter 130

    Evelyn was really in a pickle over this whole situation. She still hadn''te up with a surefire way to get Rosa to stop arranging blind dates for her without stepping on her toes. "And as for me, I guess you''ve heard the rumors flying around," Brooks said, his voice cool and collected.


    "Uh-huh." Evelyn couldn''t help but clear her throat a bit. Even though she wasn''t part of the Capital''s high society, she''d caught wind of some gossip about Brooks.


    Brooks was the same age as Charles, the eldest grandson of the Robinson family, which rivaled the Jenkins family. He''s also 28 and equally impressive, but Brooks had zero interest in women, unlike Charles, who had made his rtionship with Dahlia public back in their college days. On the other hand, Brooks never seemed to have any women around him, leading to rumors that he might prefer men. People even spected about every guy he was seen with, trying to figure out who he might fancy.


    She hadn''t been curious before, but now that Brooks brought it up, the nosy part of her wondered who caught his eye. She turned to Brooks, her curiosity written all over her face.


    "I''m not into men," Brooks said, a hint of exasperation in his eyes. Seeing Evelyn''s surprised look, he added calmly, "There''s someone I''ve been fond of for a long time."


    As he talked about this person, his eyes softened, giving Evelyn the fleeting feeling that maybe, just maybe, it was her. But she quickly dismissed the thought. How long had they known each other, really?


    Brooks continued, "I''m waiting for her, but my grandfather believes the rumors, too. I need someone to keep my family off my back, and you need someone to keep Rosa at bay. We''d make perfect partners."


    It made sense. He had someone he''d been smitten with for years, so he wasn''t about to fall for someone else. She wasn''t looking for love so she wouldn''t get tangled up with him either. They wouldn''t be a problem for each other. "Alright," Evelyn agreed after weighing her options.


    With their n set, Evelyn opened the car door to step out. "Goodbye, Mr. Brooks."


    "You''re still calling me Mr. Brooks?" Brooks asked, his hand resting on the steering wheel as he looked at her.


    Halfway out of the car, Evelyn met his gaze. Under his gentle look, she hesitated but finally managed to say, "Brooks."


    They were not all that familiar, so the change in how she addressed him made her ears burn. Worried he might notice, she quickly shut the car door.


    Brooks rolled down the window. "I''ll wait for you to go in."


    Evelyn wanted to mention that this


    was the Jenkins residence, and it was perfectly safe, but his gaze stopped her. She nodded, acknowledging the manners he''d


    been taught over the years.


    Not wasting any more time, she headed inside. Brooks stayed in the car, watching her until she vanished from view, then drove off.


    Evelyn made her way through the garden towards Rosa''s ce. Asz she passed a decorative rockery, a tall figure emerged from the shadows, blocking her path. It was Charles.


    Evelyn tried to ignore him, attempting to walk past. But Charles''rge hand suddenly mped around her wrist, almost crushing it.


    "Charles, let go!" Evelyn yelled, her


    voice sharp with pain. She didn''t bother keeping her voice down. Just moments ago, she''d seen several servants bustling around the garden when she was seeing Brooksoff.

 Chapter 131

    She was trying to get the household staff''s attention, but no one showed up.


    Charles saw right through Evelyn''s n and let out a mockingugh. She quickly realized that Charles had sent everyone away. No matter how loudly she yelled, no servant dared toe near this area.


    With no one to call for help, Evelyn raised her other hand to defend herself. Charles grabbed her hand, yanked her towards him, and pinned her against a decorative rockery, her back pressed against the rough, uneven stone. Evelyn winced in pain, furrowed her brow, and kicked out. "Charles, get off me!"


    With a swift move, Charles pinned her legs down with his, leaving her unable to move. His long fingers gripped her chin, forcing her to look up and meet his gaze. His voice wasmanding, "Reject Brooks and clear things up with Grandma." "Why should I listen to you?!" Evelyn''s eyes were icy. Who did he think he was?


    "Why? Because you''re mine, Evelyn! As long as I don''t give my nod, you can forget about being with anyone else. Got it?"


    The possessive look in Charles'' eyes was unmistakable. It was a man''s stubborn nature. Even if he didn''t love or ever considered marrying her, he wouldn''t let another mane near her because she had been with him.


    Evelyn shot back with a coldugh, "Charles, listen carefully. Don''t think you''re more important than you are. I''ll be with whoever I want, and I don''t need your permission!"


    "You wouldn''t dare!" A furious rage shed in Charles'' eyes, and suddenly, he leaned down and kissed Evelyn hard.


    He could see that Brooks genuinely


    liked Evelyn. The way he looked at her was far from innocent. A wave of jealousy surged, and Charles'' kiss became even more intense. Evelyn resisted and fought back with all her strength. As Charles tried to force his way between her lips, her face showed nothing but defiance. She resisted fiercely, not letting him win.


    Her resistance only darkened Charles'' expression, and his kisses grew wilder. It wasn''t just a kiss-it was a battle.


    When it finally ended, both were left breathless. Evelyn got tired of resisting, and Charles was infuriated by the anger her defiance sparked in him.


    "Evelyn, are you dreaming of being


    with Brooks? Don''t you know who you really are?" he repeated the


    hurtful truth. She was just a


    servant''s daughter. She wasn''t


    worth


    of him. Even when she was carrying Charlie, he did not consider marrying her. Likewise, she wasn''t worthy of Brooks.


    "You think he''s like you?" Evelyn''s words made Charles'' face darken ominously.


    "Evelyn, are you thinking of moving on to another man? Did you even ask Charlie?"


    At the mention of Charlie, Evelyn''s expression changed instantly. Charles noticed the shift and understood. Charlie wouldn''t approve. His daughter would never call anyone else Dad.


    Before he could say more, Tony''s voice echoed nearby, asking if anyone had seen Evelyn. Charles decided to drop the topic and released her.


    Before leaving, Evelyn gave Charles


    a hard kick and then turned to walk away. As he watched her leave, her attitude only made his gaze grow colder. He took out his phone and called Aiden.


    "Find out where Evelyn is hiding Charlie."

 Chapter 132

    Evelyn strolled back to Rosa''s courtyard, reying thest time in her head when Charles had managed to waltz into her room despite her locking the door.


    Determined, she sought out Rosa, linking her arm with hers and yfully pleading, "Rosa, can I crash with you tonight?"


    "Of course, sweetheart. I''d love that," Rosa replied, affectionately patting Evelyn''s head.


    That night, Evelyn cozied up beside Rosa, her presence bringing aforting peace that soon lulled her to sleep. Rosa, being older, was a light sleeper. Under the gentle glow of the nightmp, she watched Evelyn, who had always been so fond of her. Rosa felt genuine warmth from Evelyne. She''s not like Sena, who, despite calling her "Grandma," kept her distance because the natural signs of aging bothered her.


    Rosa''s gaze softened with affection as she watched Evelyn sleep.


    Late at night, Charles found himself outside Evelyn''s empty room, his expression clouding over. She was avoiding him.


    The next morning, Evelyn and Rosa, arm in arm, entered the dining room. Charles was already seated at the table.


    "Morning, Grandma," Charles greeted.


    "Morning," Rosa replied coolly, still a bit miffed at him. However, she knew better than to meddle in affairs of the heart and had no intention of forcing anything.


    Charles'' eyes lingered on Evelyn, who was absorbed in the TV instead of acknowledging him. On mornings when Charles wasn''t tied up with social engagements, he usually joined Rosa for breakfast, and the TV would be tuned to the finance channel just for him. But today was different; the screen was showing a news report.


    [Michael Robinson Arrested on Rape Charges] shed across the screen. Several victims hade forward with undeniable evidence against him. Despite the blurred face and name, Evelyn recognized him instantly as that man. Memories from the previous night flooded back-had she not escaped, she could''ve been one of those victims.


    After shaking off the effects of the drug the night before, she had nned to report Michael for attempted rape. But Brooks drove her home and had promised to handle it, and he sure did-Michael was facing serious consequences now. For a family like the Robinsons, reputation was everything, and she assumed Brooks would go easy on him. Justice was served and it gave Evelyn immense satisfaction. People like Michael deserved to be locked up for good.


    Charles noticed Evelyn watching the news intently. The servants brought breakfast to the table.


    "Eve, breakfast''s ready," Rosa called.


    "Coming, Grandma," Evelyn replied, returning to the table and sitting next to Rosa, directly across from Charles. She felt Charles'' eyes on her and shot him a cold nce which darkened his expression.


    ...


    After breakfast, Evelyn excused herself and stood to leave. Charles rose, too, interrupting Rosa''s ns to arrange a ride for Evelyn. "I''ll take her," Charles offered.


    "No thanks," Evelyn shot back. She did not want anything to do with him.


    Rosa noted her difort and signaled Tony to arrange her transportation. "It''s fine, Grandma. Brooks is picking me up," Evelyn assured.


    Charles'' frown deepened at the mention of Brooks while Rosa seemed pleased. "Alright, dear. Tell Brooks he''s wee for dinner anytime," Rosa said with a smile.


    "Will do," Evelyn nodded, making a beeline for the door, determined not to give Charles a moment to corner her. His gaze grew darker as he


    watched her leave eagentent


    ...


    Brooks saw Evelyn approaching and stepped out to open the car door for her, ensuring she got in safely.


    "You really didn''t have to go out of your way to pick me up," Evelyn said, touched by his kindness.


    Their rtionship might not have been real, but Brooks was always thoughtful.

 Chapter 133

    "Let''s keep up the act. Rx." Brooks chuckled softly.


    Hearing that, Evelyn felt a weight lift off her shoulders. "Brooks, can you swing by the restaurant I was at yesterday? I identally left my purse there."


    Just the way she said, "Brooks," made his eyes light up with a twinkle. "I already grabbed it for youst night; it''s in the back seat."


    Evelyn turned around, spotted her purse, and reached back to snag it. "Thanks."


    She pulled out her phone, noticing it had powered down. Naturally, Brooks took it from her and plugged it in to charge. "Thank you," Evelyn said again. Brooks gave her a yful look. "Hey, you are my girlfriend. You don''t have to be all formal with me, you know."


    Evelyn felt a sudden warmth in her cheeks. She had never really been in a rtionship. Since her first crush, she''d only had eyes for Charles and couldn''t see anyone else. It wasn''t like she didn''t have admirers; she just couldn''t see them. Then Charles ended up with Dahlia. And five years ago, an ident brought Evelyn and Charles back into each other''s lives, but it was all just physical...


    "Okay," Evelyn replied softly.


    The car started moving. Evelyn remembered the morning news in the living room and turned to Brooks. "I saw the news about Michael today. Thanks. You''ve got to ept this ''thank you.'' It''s not just for me, but for all the girls he hurt."


    She knew. Michael had hurt those girls, but they hadn''t spoken up-not because they didn''t want to, but because they were scared. Michael was a Robinson, and with that surname, he could pretty much do whatever he wanted to ordinary people. If it hadn''t been for Brooks stepping in, those girls wouldn''t have dared toe forward.


    Brooks was taken aback. Bringing Michael to justice and convincing the victims to testify so quickly wasn''t his doing. Though he hadn''t investigated, he knew Charles was the only other person in the Capital who could pull off something like that so fast. It seemed Charles cared more about Evelyn than he let on.


    But...


    "About what happened..."


    Brooks hesitated for a moment, then decided toe clean with Evelyn, just as his phone rang. It was his uncle, Michael''s dad. They had begged Brooks the night before pleading with him to intervene and get Michael out. Michael was their only son and couldn''t get into trouble.


    Brooks hadn''t promised anything and just asked them to leave. By this morning, everything had settled. It was a done deal, and they couldn''t change it.


    Without stepping aside, Brooks answered the call.


    "Brooks, you think you''re something now, huh? We begged you to squash this, and what did you do?


    "You''ve destroyed Michael''s life!


    "Regardless, he''s your cousin, you¡ª"


    "He got what he deserved," Brooks cut Michael''s dad off, his voice turning icy. Even if Charles hadn''t acted, Brooks wouldn''t have let Michael off the hook. The Robinson family couldn''t tolerate such behavior.


    With hisst words, there was no room for negotiation, and Michael''s dad hung up in frustration.


    Brooks was about to return to their previous conversation when Evelyn''s phone buzzed to life, fully charged. As soon as it powered on, it vibrated with a flood of messages. Evelyn quicklyswitched it to silent and noticed several missed calls from a contact named SJ. She saw SJ''s name, and her expression hardened.


    She didn''t bother continuing to charge it and immediately picked it up. SJ was a private investigator she had hired Thest time she exposed Dahlia''s real nature to Charles, he had given her two million to keep quiet. With that money, she hired a PPto keep tabs on Dahlia,


    Evelyn didn''t return the call in front of Brooks. She noticed they had left the private road and were approaching a subway station. Evelyn said, "Mr. Brooks, can you stop at the subway station up ahead? I''ll take the subway from here." Brooks gave her a searching look. He didn''t correct her formality; it was clear her mind was elsewhere. Brooks realized she wanted some space, so he didn''t press further and pulled over at the station.


    After thanking him, Evelyn got out of the car, found a quiet spot, and called SJ back.


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