Chapter 112

Evelyn's fingertips lightly traced the delicate seashell brooch. Sunlight streamed through the shop window, casting fragmented glimmers across its surface.

"Wrap it up, please." She offered the shopkeeper a faint smile.

The shopkeeper efficiently packaged the item, slipping a postcard inside. "Writing down your troubles might help ease your mind."

Evelyn accepted the bag, her fingers brushing the postcard's edge briefly before she remained silent.

Back at the hotel, she carelessly placed the gift bag on her nightstand. Emerging from her shower, she found the Maldives-themed postcard lying quietly on the desk.

After several seconds of staring, she turned and tossed it into a drawer.

......

Morning sunlight flooded the restaurant.

Ethan Winston scanned the room for the third time before his gaze settled on Sophia Laurent dining alone.

"Looking for someone, Mr. Winston?" Sophia speared a piece of fruit with her fork, her smile laced with implication.

Ethan sat directly across from her.

"Morning." His eyes flicked to her drink. "The milk looks good."

"This is soy milk." Sophia shook her glass. "Can't even tell the difference?"

Ethan remained impassive. "Where's Evelyn?"

"So concerned about my best friend?" Sophia set down her fork. "Did your investment bank hit this year's targets already?"

Ethan chuckled. "Never too busy to see someone special."

Sophia suddenly turned serious. "I thought you and Nathan were brothers."

"Not anymore."

"Because of Evelyn?"

His silence spoke volumes.

Sophia burst into laughter. "Nathan Evans finally gets his comeuppance!"

Ethan arched an eyebrow.

"Fine then." Sophia dabbed her lips. "Good luck."

"Where is she?"

Sophia checked her watch. "At this hour..." She drew out the words. "She should be at the airport."

Ethan shot to his feet.

Watching his hurried departure, Sophia recalled Evelyn's words from last night: "If I can't escape, then I'll simply change locations."