Chapter 77

Evelyn gently stroked Scarlett's back and whispered in her ear, "I'm back. I'll spend tomorrow with you. Who needs men? Let's focus on our careers."

Scarlett loosened her embrace, her eyes glazed with intoxication. "I'm just glad you're home. Business is all that matters. Men only drain our energy."

Nathan stood nearby, his lips twitching. He was right there, yet completely invisible.

He considered himself a good man, one who would cherish the woman he loved.

Evelyn thought the same. Love was overrated. Family and friendship were enough.

"See you tomorrow. Get some rest," Evelyn said softly.

Scarlett buried herself in her arms again, voice trembling. "You kept me waiting four years, you brat. Losing that lead role was a blessing—now I can finally relax."

"Four years changes people," Evelyn handed her a sobriety pill.

Scarlett swallowed it, the bitterness sharpening her senses. "Promise you'll come tomorrow, darling."

Evelyn watched Nathan escort her away before turning to Vienna's nightscape.

The distant glow of the night market stirred memories. After four years, she'd nearly forgotten what she even liked.

The pedestrian street buzzed with life. A cotton candy vendor approached. "Try some, miss? It'll brighten your mood."

Evelyn chose pink. The sugary melt on her tongue lifted her spirits slightly.

She texted Gabrielle about Natalie's medication.

Gabrielle replied instantly. "The medicine will be ready by tomorrow afternoon. Made you supper—when are you coming back?"

Evelyn eyed the food stalls. She'd planned dinner with Scarlett, but her friend had only wanted to drink.

"Eating out tonight. You go ahead," she typed back.

Pocketing her phone, she spotted a hawthorn vendor. The tart aroma suddenly made her hungry.