Chapter 29

Gregory Wilson spread his hands helplessly. "I lost my luggage when I returned home. That letter didn’t make it back either."

Vivian Dempsey pressed eagerly, "Do you still remember what it said?"

"It’s been so many years," Evelyn Carter murmured. "Love letters are all the same—just confessions of feelings, maybe with a few lines of poetry thrown in?"

"Greg, out with it!"

The atmosphere in the private room shifted instantly.

Those singing put down their microphones. Those drinking set aside their glasses. Everyone crowded closer.

Evelyn felt like she was under a spotlight, with nowhere to hide.

Gregory’s voice was calm. "I remember that letter very clearly. The first line was—"

He paused.

"Your zipper is down."

The air froze.

"Looks impressive."

Bang!

Someone kicked over the coffee table. The fruit platter shattered, sending pieces rolling across the floor.

Vivian slapped Evelyn’s back. "Evelyn, I had no idea you were so bold!"

Gregory added, "The writing was quite good. Rhymed perfectly."

Evelyn’s face turned as red as a boiled crab.

"Wait, that’s a mistake!" she stammered. "I didn’t write that! My roommate had a crush on someone and asked me to deliver the letter. There were too many people around—I must’ve given it to the wrong person... But no, I remember no one saw me leave it. How did you know it was me?"

A flicker of amusement crossed Gregory’s eyes. "Fate, I suppose."

The suggestive answer made the room erupt in even louder excitement.

Evelyn had never been in a situation like this. During her school days, though some had shown interest, she’d always kept her distance. After starting work, she spent her days with expectant mothers and newborns—the only man she interacted with was the married anesthesiologist.

She shot a pleading look at Vivian.

Vivian was too busy cheering to notice.

One of the guys cut straight to the point. "Greg, do you have feelings for Dr. Carter?"

Evelyn’s heart skipped a beat.

The room fell silent.

"No."

She exhaled in relief.

"I’ve liked her for a long time."

Crash!

Another beer bottle toppled over, glass shattering everywhere.

The room exploded with whoops and cheers.

"No wonder Greg actually showed up to the reunion today! He had ulterior motives!"

"Seven years, from freshman year till now? That’s some serious restraint!"

Vivian slammed her palm on the table. "I approve of this match!"

But Gregory turned to Evelyn, his voice soft. "I’m sorry."

"What?"

"I didn’t plan to say it this soon, but the conversation led here. I hope I haven’t made you uncomfortable."