The Day Our Promise Breaks (Charles and Evelyn) novel Chapter 239

Charles watched quietly as the car wound its way through Maple Garden, coming to a halt in front of Evelyn's building. He stumbled out and made his way slowly to her door. His knees ached and were swollen from kneeling all night.

Evelyn hadn't slept either. The memories of Charlie were painful for both her and Charles, and she had spent the night in Charlie's room, clutching a photo and crying.

A soft knock interrupted her thoughts. She set the picture aside and opened the door to find Charles standing there, looking worse for wear. His face was ghostly pale, and his bloodshot eyes spoke of a long, sleepless night. Stubble shadowed his jaw, adding to his weary appearance.

Evelyn's gaze was icy as she spoke, "Charles, how dare you show up here?" She was seething. He should have stayed at Charlie's grave forever.

Aiden, who had followed Charles, couldn't hold back. "Ms. Evelyn, Mr. Jenkins was at Miss Charlie's grave all night and spent hours at the hospital retrieving her necklace..."

Charles cut him off, "Leave us, Aiden." He wasn't there for sympathy; it was simply what he had to do. Beyond that, he felt helpless.

With Aiden gone, Charles pulled the necklace from his pocket and offered it to Evelyn. "I brought Charlie back," he said softly. He wanted to keep her close but knew Evelyn needed her more.

Evelyn's hands trembled as she took the necklace. Her eyes were red and swollen. She held it like a precious relic, pressing it to her lips. "Charlie..." she whispered, tears streaming down her face.