The following evening, Evie made a decision born from pain and desperation. If Aiden was determined to withdraw and marry Isabella, then she would try, even if only for one night, to pretend she could move on. When Damien texted her again offering to take her out “as friends, no pressure,” she said yes. She chose a simple but pretty black dress that fell just above the knee, paired with light makeup and her hair down in soft waves. Looking in the mirror, she felt a pang of guilt. This wasn’t for Damien. It was a quiet rebellion against the ache Aiden had left in her chest. Aiden was still at the office when she left. She didn’t tell him. The restaurant Damien chose was upscale but intimate, with soft lighting and live piano music. He was charming as always, with funny stories about campus life, genuine compliments, and attentive questions about her classes. He listened when she spoke, laughed at her small jokes, and never pushed too hard. On paper, it was a perfect evening. Bu
Last Updated : 2026-08-07 Read more