Why Aren't You Home Yet

Watching Julian and Isabella be publicly escorted away, a wave of relief washed over Evelyn. The tightness in her shoulders finally began to dissolve.

She turned to face the small crowd that had supported her. A few older women gave her sympathetic, knowing glances. Their advice was firm and direct.

"Sweetheart, a man like that doesn't deserve a second chance. A leopard never changes its spots."

"Absolutely. Married or not, you must never take him back."

"Choosing a partner is the most important decision. You must see his true character before committing your heart."

Evelyn managed a faint, strained smile and nodded. "Thank you. I'll remember your words."

As the onlookers gradually drifted away, an unexpected warmth filled her chest. The kindness from these strangers, who owed her nothing, began to heal the sting of Julian and Isabella's betrayal.

She had been alone since childhood. No parents had ever offered her such guidance.

For years, she had poured all her love and hope into Julian. She believed he could finally give her the family she always craved.

But reality had been a harsh teacher.

She had wasted five years on him. Five years that taught her a painful lesson: Julian would never be the man she dreamed of.

No matter what, she would never return to that life.

If he ever dared to interfere in her life again, she wouldn't hesitate to put him in his place, just as she had today. And if words failed, she was prepared to take action.

Her threats were not empty.

Suddenly, her phone vibrated, pulling her from her thoughts.

She glanced at the screen. Alexander.

"Hello?" she answered, already walking toward the mall's exit.

Alexander's voice was calm but direct. "It's late. Why aren't you home? Are you still working?"

Evelyn adjusted her bag. "I'm at the mall. Something came up. I'm on my way back now."

He didn't ask for details. Instead, he said, "Send me the address. I'll have a car sent for you."

The offer surprised her. Her instinct was to refuse. "That's not needed. I can take the bus."

Silence lingered on the other end for a moment. When he spoke again, his tone was more insistent. "It's dark outside. It isn't safe for you to be alone."

She looked through the glass doors. The streetlights cast long, dark shadows on the pavement.

He was right. She didn't argue further. A small, genuine smile touched her lips. "Okay."

When she first moved into Serenity Oaks, Alexander had been distant. Almost cold.

But now, he was showing concern for her safety.

Perhaps things between them were starting to shift.

Shortly after ending the call, a notification chimed. The car had arrived.

She stepped out into the cool evening air and headed for the curb.

Before she reached it, a small, excited group caught her attention. Several young women were clustered together, whispering animatedly.

"The window rolled down! I saw him! He's incredibly handsome!"

"It's not just his looks. His presence is something else entirely."

"Am I the only one staring at the car? I looked it up. I could never afford that in my lifetime."

"Crestwood has so many elites. I wonder who he is. I've never seen him before."

Evelyn's gaze drifted to the luxurious car they were admiring. It was the one Alexander had sent. The license plate matched the message.

Her heartbeat quickened.