Satisfied, Charlotte straightened up, choosing not to press the issue further.
But inside, resentment burned hotter than ever, simmering beneath her polished facade.
This was the first time Christopher had denied her anything—and it was because of that woman, Evelyn, who had only entered their lives five years ago.
In the past, Christopher had entertained other women in his life, but none of them had ever mattered. Charlotte had always been his priority, his constant. If she’d asked him to end things with someone, he wouldn’t have hesitated.
Why was Evelyn different? What made her so special?
If Charlotte hadn’t left for her studies abroad, Evelyn would never have had the chance to worm her way into Christopher’s life.
But no matter. Soon, Charlotte’s health would be restored and time would be on her side. She had no intention of losing to Evelyn.
***
Later that night, when Christopher returned home, he found Evelyn still kneeling in the snow.
Her body trembled from the cold and snowflakes had piled onto her shoulders, forming a thick, undisturbed layer. She hadn’t even bothered to brush them off.