Evelyn, What Did You Buy?

Isabella's words were sharp and cutting.

Evelyn remained perfectly calm.

She saw the brief flicker of shock in Isabella's eyes before the mask of innocence slipped back into place.

Isabella quickly turned to Julian, her expression morphing into one of pure hurt.

Her eyes welled up with unshed tears, seeking his protection.

Julian felt a familiar surge of defensiveness.

He moved immediately, pulling the 'fragile' Isabella close against his side.

He glared at Evelyn with clear disapproval. "Evelyn, she didn't mean it like that. Was that really called for?"

Evelyn didn't even look at him.

Her face was an unreadable mask. She gave a slow, deliberate nod. "I know she didn't. But I did. Are we clear? Now, do me a favor and stay away from me. I've had a long day. My patience is gone."

"Evelyn, you—" Julian started, but her utter indifference stopped him cold.

He was thrown. He remembered a different Evelyn. A softer one. One who always spoke to him with warmth and affection.

When had she become this cold, this detached?

The answer hit him instantly. It had to be because of the wedding. She was still punishing him for leaving.

His thoughts were interrupted when Isabella's gaze landed on the shopping bag in Evelyn's hand.

She hesitated, choosing her words carefully while watching Julian's face.

"Evelyn, what did you buy?" Isabella's voice was sweetly curious. "A gift for Julian? You're always so thoughtful. Still thinking of him after everything. I wish I could be that considerate."

Hearing this, Julian's eyes snapped to the bag.

His tense expression softened considerably.

A part of him had been waiting for this. Waiting for Evelyn to come back to him. She always did. She would get upset, but after a few days, she would inevitably return.

Her moving out had been a surprise, but he was sure it was temporary.

Yet, days had passed with no sign of her.

Doubt had begun to creep into his mind. Was she really gone for good?

Isabella's comment felt like a revelation. Of course. Evelyn hadn't let go. She had bought him a gift.

His confidence flooded back.

A smug, satisfied smile spread across his face. "Evelyn, I knew you wouldn't forget my birthday. Fine, I forgive you. Just come home. We can start planning the party together. Make sure you invite all my friends, like always."

As he spoke, his attention was fixed on the bag. "So, what did you get me? Let me see it."

He reached for the bag.

Evelyn snatched it back before his fingers could even brush the handle.

Her expression was pure contempt.

Her voice was sharp with irritation. "Julian, are you deaf or just stupid? Did you not hear a single word I said?"

Julian froze, stunned by the venom in her tone.

Then, realization dawned. His face darkened instantly.

Anger boiled in his chest. "Evelyn, how long are you going to keep this act up?"

He had given her a perfect opportunity to save face. And she had thrown it back in his face with nothing but cold disdain.

The audacity. She clearly didn't know how good she had it.