Chapter 5: Their encounter

Evelyn stood in the opulent dressing room of the boutique, her reflection surrounded by an array of exquisite dresses. The room was bathed in the warm light of a crystal chandelier, casting a glow that highlighted the tension in the air. Despite the luxury surrounding her, Evelyn's expression was one of detachment.

Her mother, Evangeline, perched on a plush chair, scrutinized Evelyn's appearance with a critical eye. "How about this one?" Evangeline asked, her voice carrying an edge of urgency as she adjusted her position on the velvet seat.

Evelyn barely glanced at the dress. "I don't care," she said flatly. "It's just a dress."

Evangeline's patience was wearing thin. "This isn't just about a dress, Evelyn. You're meeting Earl Silverwood today. You need to look perfect. It's crucial that you make a good impression."

Erin, Evangeline's biological daughter, lounged on a nearby sofa. Her gaze flicked between Evelyn and the dresses with growing frustration. The opportunity to marry into the Silverwood family should have been hers, she thought. The fact that Earl Silverwood, who had been previously involved with someone else, was now potentially going to marry Evelyn—a mere placeholder in Erin's eyes—stung deeply.

"Why does she get to marry into that family?" Erin muttered under her breath, her voice filled with bitterness. "She's just the fake daughter."

Evangeline caught the resentment in her daughter's voice but chose to ignore it for the moment. Instead, she continued to examine the dresses. As Evelyn tried on a series of gowns, her beauty seemed to shine through each one, despite her lack of enthusiasm. Erin's jealousy grew with each passing moment, her frustration evident as she watched Evelyn effortlessly outshine the dresses.

Finally, Erin, unable to contain her feelings any longer, picked out a modest dress—a high-collared, floor-length gown with long sleeves. She handed it to Evelyn with a forced smile. "Try this one. It's more appropriate."

Evelyn took the dress and put it on. Even though it was more conservative, she still looked graceful. Erin's frustration reached its peak. "Why does she even look good in that?" she complained, crossing her arms tightly.

Evangeline, noting Erin's frustration, sighed. She selected a stunning emerald green dress from the rack, hoping it would finally meet her satisfaction. When Evelyn put it on, she looked breathtaking. The shop attendants gasped in admiration.

"That's the one," one attendant said, her eyes wide with approval.

"Yes, it's perfect," another agreed.

Erin's jealousy flared as she watched Evelyn receive such praise. "It's just a dress," she muttered again, though it was clear she was deeply envious.

As the day of the meeting approached, Evelyn's parents were anxious. The Silverwood family had chosen a botanical garden restaurant for the meeting—a beautiful setting with lush greenery and vibrant flowers. When Evelyn, Evangeline, and Erin arrived, Camilla, Earl's mother, and Martin, Earl's father, were already there.

Camilla's eyes widened as she saw Evelyn. "Look at her, Earl. Isn't she stunning?" she said, nudging her son with enthusiasm.

Earl looked at Evelyn, his expression neutral. "She looks nice," he said, though his voice was devoid of warmth. His gaze was distant, as if he were already resigned to the outcome.

"Earl, try to be open-minded," Camilla said, trying to encourage her son. "This could be good for you."

Earl shrugged. "I don't see how."

Formal introductions were made, and Camilla quickly announced that the wedding was scheduled for two weeks from now. Evelyn's eyes widened in shock. "Two weeks?" she echoed, her voice tinged with disbelief.

Her parents immediately began to negotiate. "Is there any possibility of extending the date?" Evangeline asked, trying to maintain her composure.

Camilla shook her head firmly. "The date is set. It's what we agreed upon."

Martin added with a gentle smile, "We've had this planned for a while. It's important to stick to the schedule."

Evelyn's parents had no choice but to accept.

Camilla then suggested that Evelyn and Earl take a walk through the garden. Both agreed, though reluctantly. As they walked among the flowers and greenery, the initial stiffness between them was evident.

"So, what do you think of all this?" Earl finally broke the silence, his voice flat.

Evelyn glanced at him, her tone gentle but firm. "Honestly? I think it's unfortunate that neither of us really wants this. Marriage should be more than just a formality."

Earl's expression remained impassive. "You're naive. This is a business arrangement, nothing more."

Evelyn shook her head. "Maybe it's a business arrangement, but it's still a big deal. It deserves to be treated with respect."

Earl sighed, his gaze distant. "I don't have much heart left to give. My past… it's difficult to move on from."

Evelyn's voice softened. "I understand. But that doesn't mean you should shut yourself off completely. Sometimes, unexpected things can bring joy."

Earl looked at her, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. "I'll help you with your dreams, even if this marriage is just a duty for me. I won't be a burden."

Evelyn nodded, her expression a mix of compassion and sadness. "Marriage is more than just duty. It's about partnership and respect."

Earl scoffed slightly. "You're still too idealistic."

As their conversation continued, the awkwardness began to ease. Evelyn spoke about her dreams and ambitions, her passion evident in her words. "I've always wanted to be a painter. I want to travel the world, see different cultures, and capture them on canvas. That's been my dream for as long as I can remember."

Earl's expression softened a bit. "That's... ambitious. I never had the chance to pursue my own dreams. I was too focused on maintaining my past relationship."

Evelyn looked at him with empathy. "Maybe this marriage can be an opportunity for both of us to start fresh. Even if it's not what either of us envisioned, we can still find some meaning in it."

Earl's eyes met hers, a hint of vulnerability showing. "I suppose. It's just hard to believe in new beginnings when you're still holding on to old wounds."

Evelyn offered a reassuring smile. "Sometimes, healing begins with letting go. Maybe this marriage won't be perfect, but it doesn't mean it can't be something worthwhile."

Later that evening, Evelyn retreated to her bedroom and immediately called her best friend, Maria. Maria answered with her usual enthusiasm. "Hey, Evelyn! How did the meeting go?"

"It was... okay," Evelyn said, her voice weary. "Earl is distant, and the whole thing feels so impersonal."

Maria's tone turned playful. "Wow, this sounds like a drama series! Earl Silverwood as your fiancé? That's unbelievable!"

Evelyn chuckled, though her laughter was tinged with frustration. "It feels surreal, but not in a good way."

Maria continued, her voice teasing, "You know, you should make the honeymoon night special. It's important to create a memorable experience."

Evelyn's cheeks flushed slightly. "Maria, I really don't need all the details."

Maria laughed. "Come on, a little advice never hurts. For the honeymoon, you could try something daring. Like, dress in something seductive—think lacy lingerie or a silk robe. Set the mood with candles and soft music. Maybe even prepare a surprise, like a special dessert or a thoughtful gift."

Evelyn raised an eyebrow. "Really? That's... quite detailed."

Maria continued, her voice lower and more conspiratorial. "And don't forget to be confident. Sometimes, just taking charge and being a bit adventurous can really spice things up. Maybe surprise him with a playful gesture—like a little game or a bit of teasing. Show him that you're both enthusiastic and ready to make the most of your time together."

Evelyn managed a faint smile. "I appreciate the advice, but I'm not as inexperienced as you might think. I've had some experience."

Maria's laughter grew more lighthearted. "Oh, really? Well, you'll have to tell me more later. For now, just good luck with everything. You've got this!"

As the call ended, Evelyn lay back on her bed, her mind swirling with thoughts of the day. Despite the unexpected twists and challenges ahead, she hoped she might find some way to navigate this new path in her life. The conversation with Earl had given her a glimmer of hope, even if the road ahead seemed uncertain.