Chapter 5
He bent down to pick up the document, but Evelyn was faster, snatching it off the floor before he could.
Martin’s eyes followed her movements, landing on the file she clutched to her chest. Realization dawned. “Is that the document you had me sign last time?”
Relieved he hadn’t seen the details, Evelyn nodded. He chuckled.
“Why are you so protective of it? I already told you, what’s mine is yours. I can handle anything.”
She didn’t respond, afraid he’d dig deeper. Instead, she changed the subject. “You said you bought me a gift. What is it?”
“Come on, I’ll show you.” Martin pulled a key from the drawer and dangled it in front of her.
When they arrived at the destination, it turned out to be a villa.
As they walked through the grand entrance, Martin explained,
“You always said the old house felt too stuffy, not like a home. So I bought this one, decorated it exactly how you’d like.”
In the back garden, a sea of purple orchids caught Evelyn’s eye. Martin’s voice softened. “You said you loved orchids, so I had these planted just for you.”
He led her further inside, stopping at the nursery next to the master bedroom. The room was filled with baby furniture, tiny clothes, and toys.
Martin wrapped his arms around her from behind, his voice warm with affection.
“When the baby’s born, they’ll stay here. Close enough, but not too close to disturb us.”
“What should we name them? You’re my Evelyn, and I adore you. How about Lovelyn?”
Evelyn stayed silent, tears streaming down her face.
Martin noticed and gently wiped them away, amused.
“Why are you so emotional?”
She let him dry her tears but didn’t answer. Only she knew–her tears weren’t from joy.
Just then, a familiar voice called out from the doorway.
“Martin, Evelyn! What a coincidence!”
Stella walked in, her smile bright as she zeroed in on Martin.
“I was eyeing this villa, but the agent said it was sold. So it was you two! Martin, I just got back and need a place to stay. Could you let me have this one?”
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Cleared for Departure: So Is My Love
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Her tone was sweet, but her eyes were sharp, already claiming victory.
Martin’s usual composure faltered. He glanced at Evelyn, his expression darkening.
If it were any other villa, he’d have agreed without a second thought. But this one–he’d just promised it to Evelyn.
“I know it’s asking a lot, but I really love this place. And I’m in a hurry–it’s hard to find something like this.”
“Martin, just let me have it this once!”
Her voice was laced with a plea, and Martin hesitated. Finally, he nodded and turned to Evelyn.
“Evelyn, the baby’s not here yet. Let’s give this one to Stella. I’ll buy you another just like it.”
Evelyn smiled faintly, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.
It didn’t matter what she said–Martin had already made his choice.
As for the baby…
The baby was gone, and he still didn’t know.
To show her gratitude, Stella invited them to dinner. But as soon as the food arrived, Martin’s phone rang.
He gestured to Evelyn, then stood. “You eat first. I need to take this.”
Evelyn just wanted a quiet meal, but Stella had other plans.
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