It was Charlotte’s birthday and Christopher had gone to extravagant lengths, arranging an entire city-wide fireworks display just for her.
As the explosions echoed in the background, Evelyn stood, grabbing her bag. Her voice, small and almost swallowed by the noise, was tinged with quiet resignation. “The contract is signed. If anything comes up, just let me know.”
Only then did the others acknowledge her. The couple hurriedly pulled out a check and a business card, pressing them into her hands.
“Ms. Carter, here’s $300,000. Please take it. If there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.”
“This is just a small token of our appreciation. Please accept it!”
Evelyn shook her head and refused the check. This wasn’t a sale—she wouldn’t dare take their money. Quietly, she accepted the business card instead.
But as her eyes scanned the card, her fingers froze. Her breath hitched and her heart seemed to stop.
[William. CEO of Sinclair Industries.]
Her hands trembled as the truth hit her. These weren’t just any parents. They were Charlotte’s parents.
The air felt suffocating and panic surged through her veins. Without a word, Evelyn fled the hospital.
***
The fireworks were still painting the sky as Evelyn arrived back at her empty villa.
Christopher was already waiting by the entrance. One hand rested in his coat pocket, while the other tapped impatiently on his watch. His face darkened with each passing moment.
It was nearly ten and Evelyn still hadn’t come home.
Beside him, Charlotte shivered in the biting December wind. Winter in Redwood City was harsh, with snow blanketing the streets for most of the month. She tugged at Christopher’s sleeve, her voice soft and saccharine.
“Chris, let’s go back inside. The cake hasn’t been cut yet…”
Christopher’s brows furrowed as he stood at the villa's entrance, his sharp gaze fixed on the empty driveway. His voice, low and unwavering, broke the silence.
“Go back and cut the cake yourself.”
Charlotte’s bright smile faltered, her voice softening into a familiar, hesitant tone as she played her usual card.
“But Chris... my heart’s feeling a little fragile and it’s so cold out here.”
At that, Christopher finally turned to look at her. His piercing, icy stare gradually softened, shifting into the warmth and indulgence Charlotte had come to expect.