Chapter 36

"What's wrong with me?" Nathan Evans opened his eyes, his voice hoarse.

Dylan Lowell stood by the bed, holding a medical report. "The doctor said your irregular eating habits and excessive drinking caused a stomach perforation."

Isabella Evans' eyes were red. "You scared me to death! When I walked in and saw you collapsed on the floor, your face was as pale as paper..." Her voice cracked. "The doctor said you need proper rest and can't keep neglecting your health."

Margaret Evans had been glowering silently until she finally snapped. "Where's Evelyn Langley? Her boyfriend is hospitalized, and she can't even show her face?"

Isabella also looked puzzled.

In the past, even if Nathan had a minor cold, Evelyn would stay by his side. Yet for something this serious, she was nowhere to be found.

The room fell silent.

Nathan stared blankly at the ceiling. Dylan and Julian Roscente exchanged glances, neither daring to speak.

"They broke up," Ethan Winston broke the silence. "Nathan ended it."

Margaret frowned. "Still throwing a tantrum? It's been days! She's really pushing her luck!"

Nathan's expression darkened further.

"Mrs. Evans," Ethan gave her a meaningful look, "this time is different."

"What do you mean? Is she playing hard to get?" Margaret's voice rose sharply.

"Mom," Nathan cut in coldly, "we're done for good."

Margaret froze.

Isabella's eyes widened.

Come to think of it, Evelyn had been unusually absent for a long time...

Margaret stormed out of the room and immediately dialed Evelyn's number in the hallway.

"Evelyn Langley!" she hissed the moment the call connected. "Who do you think you are? My son choosing you was a blessing you didn't deserve!"

"Do you know how much money he's spent on you? Even a dog would wag its tail in gratitude!"

Her voice dripped with venom. "Get your ass to the hospital right now—"

On the other end, Evelyn listened quietly before replying calmly, "I'm sorry, but Nathan and I are no longer involved."

She hung up, swiftly blocked the number, and deleted the contact.

After completing these actions, she exhaled deeply, as if a heavy weight had been lifted.

Margaret stared at her phone in disbelief at the dial tone. When she tried calling again, the line was dead.

"Fine! Just fine!" She trembled with rage.

......

Ryan Clementson noticed the faint smile on her lips. "Good news?"

Evelyn shook her head. "Just took care of some trouble."

Night had fallen as they left the library. Streetlights stretched their shadows long, and autumn leaves rustled in the wind.

Gathering courage, Ryan glanced at the girl's serene profile. "About that dinner we mentioned—how about tonight? Unless you're busy..."

Evelyn considered it. "I have ingredients at home. If you don't mind, I can cook?"

Ryan's ears turned pink. "Y-Your place?"

"It's a fifteen-minute walk," she added. "Or we can eat out. Your call."

Seeing her composed expression, Ryan suppressed his nervousness. "Home sounds perfect. Thanks."