EVELYN’S POV:

He paused, his gaze piercing mine as though he was waiting for permission to speak. His intensity was palpable, but I said nothing. I just stood there, staring at him, my emotions swirling in a confusing storm of anger, hurt, and vulnerability.

Suddenly, a wave of nausea hit me, and I barely made it to the bathroom in time before throwing up. My stomach churned violently, and tears streamed down my face as my body heaved. Leonard appeared moments later, crouching by my side. He helped me clean up without saying a word, his hands steady and comforting.

“I’ll be fine,” I murmured, my voice hoarse. “Just… excuse...