Hearing those words from Michael and Sandra was one thing; seeing them entwined on the bed was another. Evelyn's breath caught in her throat, and the sting of betrayal cut deep. She backed away, her vision blurred by tears, and fled the house, her heart pounding. She drove away, wanting to escape them.

She considered going home but couldn't. She didn't want to see anyone, especially Sandra.

Driving, her tears blurring her vision, she collided with another vehicle. The screech of tires and the crunch of metal jolted her back to reality. Her car swerved violently; she slammed on the brakes, the force throwing her forward before the car shuddered to a halt.

Disoriented, she wrenched her head around, her heart hammering. Her hands shook as she gripped the steering wheel, her mind reeling. Across the intersection, a sleek black sedan sat at a jaunty angle, its bumper crumpled. A man in a crisp suit emerged from the backseat, his face contorted in anger.

Expecting a verbal assault, Evelyn braced herself. But as he approached, his anger morphed into concern, catching her off guard. The anger in his eyes softened slightly when he saw her tear-streaked face.

"What the hell were you doing? Do you want to get yourself and others killed?" he asked, his voice laced with concern despite his anger.

Evelyn could only choke out a sob, slumping back and burying her face in her hands. The man hesitated, frustration warring with worry.

"Hey, are you alright?" he asked, his voice softer.

Evelyn continued crying.

"Where are you heading?" he asked gently, despite the throbbing vein in his temple. "I'll take you there."

Evelyn shook her head, her voice muffled. Facing anyone and explaining her situation felt unbearable.

"Come on, lady," the man persisted, his voice firm but kind. "You're in no state to drive, and neither is your car. Let me take you."

Evelyn remained silent, the image of Sandra and Michael flashing before her eyes.

The man sighed, exasperation creeping into his voice. "Look," he said impatiently, "either you let me take you somewhere safe, or I'm calling the cops." The weight of his threat sank in. Dealing with the police and insurance was the last thing she needed. With a shaky nod, she conceded.

"Alright," she croaked.

"Good," he said, relief evident. "Get in my car. I'll have yours taken care of."

Reluctantly, Evelyn complied. He guided her to his vehicle, helped her in, and signaled his driver to handle her car.

She stole a glance at her companion. He was handsome, with dark hair sweeping across his forehead and piercing blue eyes that held a hint of curiosity.

"Where to?" he asked, his voice still concerned.

Evelyn bit her lip. Anywhere. "Anywhere. Just take me anywhere," she whispered.

He raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. "That's not very specific," he said, smiling faintly.

Evelyn hardened her resolve. She didn't want conversation or pity, only escape. A desperate thought crossed her mind.

"Your place," she blurted, shocking herself.

His smile vanished, replaced by bewilderment. "My place? What do you mean?"

"Anywhere you're going is fine," she insisted.

He sighed, clearly uncertain, but drove to his hotel, his mind racing. The ride was mostly silent, punctuated by her sniffles.

Pulling up to a luxurious hotel, he turned to her. "Are you sure you don't want to go home or to a hospital?"

Evelyn shook her head. The tears finally subsided, leaving raw vulnerability. He hesitated, then sighed.

"Alright," he said. "Look, I don't know what's going on, but if you want to talk, I'm here."

"Thanks," she mumbled as he helped her out and led her to his suite, leaving his driver to handle the cars. Inside, he guided her to the couch and brought her water.

"What happened?" he asked softly, sitting beside her. "Why were you crying?"

Evelyn couldn't speak; she just shook her head, fresh tears falling. Seeing her reluctance, he rose. "If you don't mind, I need to freshen up. I've had a long day," he said, and went into his bedroom.

Emerging from the bathroom, towel-clad, he found her standing in his room.

"What are you doing in here? Do you need something?" he asked.

"Are you married?" she asked, her expression unreadable.

He blinked. "No. Why are you"

"Engaged? Do you have a girlfriend?" she interrupted.

Puzzled, he answered, "No."

"Would you want to have sex with me?" she asked bluntly.