The Day Our Promise Breaks (Charles and Evelyn) novel Chapter 182

The party was set to kick off at eleven, but by the time Evelyn pulled up to the Jenkins' place at half-past nine, the driveway was jam-packed with luxury cars. This was no ordinary gathering; it was a who's who of the Capital, with nearly every significant figure present and media outlets already stationed in the interview zone.

Not too long ago, Charles had rented out Disney for his daughter's birthday bash. Even though Dahlia and Charlie stayed out of the limelight during the fireworks display, it was a clear nod to their presence in his life.

Today's shindig was Charles' way of officially acknowledging Dahlia and her daughter in front of the world. This kind of lavish affair was rare even among the city's elite families.

Evelyn, still in her car, took in the grandeur of it all with a cold detachment. When it came to Dahlia and her daughter, Charles spared no effort to ensure they were treated like royalty, going out of his way to give them nothing but the best.

While Charles and Patrick were busy greeting the VIPs, Charles checked his watch, excused himself, and slipped away. Everyone knew this event wasn't just about Dahlia's debut as the future wife of Charles’. It was also about formally adding Charles' daughter, Sandy, to the family tree.

As Charles and Patrick made their exit, Evelyn stepped out of her car and headed inside. Having spent much of her life around the Jenkins estate, she knew her way around and managed to weave through the crowd from a side entrance.

...

Dahlia was dressed to impress, standing proudly with Sandy at the top of the staircase, soaking in the spectacle below. It had taken seven long years, but her moment had finally arrived. After today, everyone in the Capital would know that Dahlia was Charles' officially recognized fiancée, the woman he adored and the future lady of the Jenkins household.

With this announcement, the title of Mrs. Jenkins would be firmly hers. Everything was unfolding perfectly, with one minor regret—Evelyn wasn't there to witness it firsthand.

Although the media would surely broadcast Dahlia’s victory, nothing could match the satisfaction of watching Evelyn see it live. Being publicly acknowledged by Charles was something Evelyn could only dream about. It was a shame that dream was all she'd ever have.

Dahlia was practically glowing with triumph, a sight not missed by Evelyn, who observed from a distance.

...

When Patrick and Charles arrived, Dahlia made her way down the stairs with Sandy in tow. "Charles, Patrick," she greeted.