The Day Our Promise Breaks (Charles and Evelyn) novel 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 uncomfortable. She furrowed her brows slightly and met his gaze.

Her expression turned a bit cold. She wondered if he was playing with her. Could it be that his good reputation was undeserved, and he was actually a playboy?

"Do you really not remember me?"

Just as Evelyn was secretly harboring doubts, Brooks spoke in a deep, unhurried, magnetic voice.

"Sorry?" Evelyn was puzzled and stared at Brooks.

What did he mean? Did they know each other?

"When do you plan to return my pen?" he asked again.

"What?" Evelyn was bewildered and completely 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 your latest design for one million dollars. Would that be acceptable?"

"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 placed the check in her bag, zipping it up before taking one more glance at the million-dollar 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 to compose herself.

...

After regaining her composure, Evelyn exited the restroom.