The Day Our Promise Breaks

"Brooks, sorry if I startled you."

Evelyn seemed to have pulled herself together, offering Brooks a small, tentative smile. But that little curve of her lips tugged painfully at Brooks' heart. He didn't say much, just gently ruffled her hair and took her cold hand in his.

Evelyn hesitated for a second, her gaze falling on their intertwined hands. She lingered for just a moment longer, not pulling away. Her heart felt like ice, craving the warmth.

"Thanks, Dr. Grant. I'll head out now."

"Call me anytime," Dr. Grant reminded her.

"Sure," Evelyn nodded softly, leaving with Brooks.

After watching them go, Dr. Grant returned to his office. Around the hallway corner, Dahlia stepped out, replaying the conversation between the psychologist and Brooks in her mind. She was certain now that Evelyn had severe psychological issues, ones that could lead her to drastic actions if triggered. All that echoed in her mind were those words: "something drastic."

A sinister, cold smile spread across Dahlia's lips. She was eager to see how Charles could ever make amends to a dead woman. Charles could only ever belong to her!

...

Once in the car, Evelyn was quiet. Her emotions had settled, and she wasn't trembling anymore, but she hadn't fully bounced back and her mood was still off. Her eyes wandered outside, her mind a blank slate. Brooks stayed silent too, driving without a word.

It was only when the car stopped that Evelyn snapped back to reality. She unbuckled her seatbelt and stepped out, realizing they weren't at her apartment but at a popular indoor amusement park downtown.

Brooks came over to her, his voice gentle, "It's still early. How about we have some fun?"

Evelyn knew Brooks brought her here not to play himself, but to help her unwind and be happy. "Okay," she nodded lightly, appreciating his gesture.

When Brooks reached out his large hand, Evelyn took the lead this time, placing her hand into his warm palm. Brooks led her inside, bought tickets, and took her straight to the go-karts.

Initially, Evelyn wasn't interested; in her current mood, nothing seemed appealing. But once she was geared up and listened to Brooks play the instructor role, explaining the rules she got into the go-kart. With a glance at Brooks in the kart beside her and encouraged by his look, she pressed the accelerator.

M

Transitioning from slow to fast driving, Evelyn gradually started to enjoy herself, and a smile crept back onto her face.

After go-karting, Brooks took her to the archery range. Evelyn had no clue how to shoot. Brooks stood behind her, teaching patiently. Evelyn picked up the pointers

quickly, attempting her first sel

It

didn't hit the bullseye but wasn't far off. Brooks made a smallnoveldrama

adjustment for her.

With her third arrow, Evelyn hit the bullseye. Her previously dull eyes lit up noticeably. "Great job," Brooks praised warmly.

Evelyn smiled back at him, nocking another arrow and drawing the bow. In her mind's eye, the bullseye transformed into Charles and Dahlia. Arrow after arrow, she released her pent-up anger and resentment. At that moment, she felt a wave of relief. The heavy weight on her chest had lifted slightly, offering her a moment to breathe.