Chapter 132
Evelyn strolled back to Rosa’s courtyard, replaying the last 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 playfully 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 a comforting peace that soon lulled her to sleep. Rosa, being older, was a light sleeper. Under the gentle glow of the night lamp, 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] flashed across the screen. Several victims had come 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 planned 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 glance which darkened his expression.
QUMS
…
After breakfast, Evelyn excused herself and stood to leave. Charles rose, too, interrupting Rosa’s plans 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 discomfort 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 welcome 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 relationship might not have been real, but Brooks was always thoughtful.