The Day Our Promise Breaks (Charles and Evelyn) novel Chapter 206

Dahlia was brimming with confidence, certain that no man could resist her charm, especially not Charles, who was head over heels for her. But just as she was about to kiss his lips, she felt a firm grip on her shoulder. Charles' voice was deep and steady as he called out, "Dahlia!"

His voice was calm, his gaze steady. There wasn’t a hint of the struggle you’d expect from someone caught in the throes of temptation—just a cool, collected demeanor. Tears began to well up in Dahlia's eyes.

She looked up at Charles, hurt and embarrassed, and asked, her voice catching, "Why?"

Charles kept his lips pressed tightly together. He didn’t say a word. His silence made Dahlia’s eyes brim with tears, her lips trembling as she asked, "Charles, is it because of what happened five years ago... Do you think less of me?"

As soon as the words left her lips, tears rolled down her cheeks.

"Dahlia!" Charles' voice got even deeper, with a touch of frustration.

Seeing his expression change, Dahlia panicked and quickly reached for his hand. "Charles, I'm sorry, I didn't mean it like that. Please, don't be mad."

"I know you love me; you can't possibly despise me."

Then she switched gears. "But if you don't, and since you and Evelyn are done, why can't you stay?"

Dahlia played the part of the wronged and pitiful lover perfectly. She was trying to break down Charles’ defenses, make him feel for her, and make him cave.

Looking into her tear-filled eyes, he blurted out, "Dahlia, I just can’t focus on this until I find Charlie."

With that, Charles’ furrowed brow relaxed a bit. Dahlia realized she couldn't push any further and forced a smile. "Charlie’s important, Charles. I’ll wait for you."

"It’s late; you should get some rest."

Charles didn’t take the bait. Instead, he pulled away, turned on his heel, and left without a second thought.