Chapter 115: A gift

Evan leans against on the couch, feeling tired and drunk. He loosens the collar on his shirt and undoes the top buttons, revealing his strong, tan chest. He gazes at Avery like a panther targeting its prey. They stare each other down for a moment, but Avery talks first.

"I gave her the dress," she said simply.

She can't tell him the reason she gave Janetta the dress: Evan would be furious to hear about Charles' ring.

"Did you hear me?" she asks.

Evan's eyes are dark as he responds, "I know."

"Then why did you slap her?" Avery asks in confusion, "Why couldn't you allow her to wear the dress. If it was so important you should be mad at me, not her."

"I couldn't bear that," Evan whispers, almost to himself.

Avery wonders if the frantic beat of her heart is audible. For a brief second, she sees something in her eyes that makes her throat feel thick with emotion.