Chapter 175

Evelyn Carter gave a slight nod.

Peter Harrison's torn pants clung damply to his legs, the frayed fabric swaying with each step. Staying longer wasn't an option.

The sweet aftertaste of cake lingered on her lips as the simple birthday gathering drew to a close.

Grace Anderson stood by the restaurant entrance, brows furrowed.

Her eldest daughter had just endured her ex-husband's engagement party, and now her youngest had gone missing. The exhaustion weighed heavily on her.

Peter pulled up smoothly in his sedan. "Mr. Anderson, Mrs. Anderson, let me drive you home."

His modest car had ample space for everyone.

But Auntie Lucy was the guest of honor—they couldn't let her leave alone.

Andrew Anderson waved him off. "Emily isn't back yet. We'll wait a bit longer."

Grace anxiously scanned the street corner. "She's not answering her phone. I'm so worried."

Peter's gaze settled on Evelyn, silently seeking her opinion.

She knew her sister was likely lost in the throes of young love and wouldn't return anytime soon.

"Mom, Dad, go ahead. I'll find Emily."

Andrew's temper flared. "Off to see that good-for-nothing boy again!"

Grace hastily tugged his sleeve. "Peter's right here. Mind your words."

"I'm just saying—Peter's ten times better than that teacher! At least we know him!" Andrew grumbled.

Grace clapped a hand over his mouth. "Stop talking nonsense!"

Auntie Lucy smoothly interjected, "How about this? I'll ride the bus with you two, and Peter can take Evelyn to find her sister."

"We couldn't impose..." Grace protested.

Auntie Lucy smiled knowingly. "Who knows? We might all be family soon."

She raised her voice pointedly, "Peter, take good care of both sisters!"

His ears burned as he quickly ushered his parents into a taxi.

Only when the cab disappeared around the corner did he exhale. "Mom's always like this. Don't mind her. Let's just keep things as they were between us."

Evelyn gazed at the distant neon lights and softly murmured, "Mm."

The night breeze brushed through her hair, carrying the first chill of autumn.