Chapter 2 - The Engagement Night
The atmosphere around the turquoise swimming pool was electric with celebration. Soft jazz music drifted through the outdoor speakers, mingling with the light laughter of high-society guests and the clinking of champagne flutes. Ethan stood near the edge of the water, looking distinguished in a sharp navy blazer, though an underlying sadness still flickered in his eyes.
Beside him, Evelyn wore an immaculate ivory silk dress that shimmered under the golden patio lights. She smiled effortlessly, playing the role of the perfect host, frequently resting a soft hand on Ethan’s forearm.
"You've done a wonderful job holding this family together, Ethan," his old friend Marcus remarked, raising a glass. "It’s good to see light back in this house."
Ethan offered a solemn smile. "It’s been a long journey, Marcus. But we have to move forward. For Lily’s sake."
"Speaking of Lily, where is she?" Marcus asked gently.
Ethan looked toward the patio doors. Lily was standing near the edge of the shade, wearing her mother’s favorite silver pendant around her small neck. She refused to wear the dress Evelyn had bought for her, wearing instead a simple yellow sundress her mother had washed just days before disappearing.
Evelyn glided over to Ethan, her hand trailing down his shoulder. "Ethan, darling, the sun is setting. It’s time."
Ethan took a deep breath, reaching into his pocket for the ring box. He signaled the musician to lower the music. The guests gathered around the illuminated pool, their faces full of anticipation.
Ethan took Evelyn’s hands, looking down into her bright green eyes. "Evelyn, when my life fell apart, you brought stability back to this home. You gave me hope when I thought I had none left. Tonight, in front of our closest friends, I want to ask you—"
"NO! STOP IT!"
A sharp, hysterical scream shattered the romantic atmosphere.
The guests gasped as Lily darted past the crowd, her small shoes slapping against the slate patio tiles. She hurled herself between Ethan and Evelyn, her tiny body trembling with raw fury and terror.
"Lily, sweetie, what's wrong?" Ethan asked, dropping down to one knee, alarmed by the look of utter desperation in his daughter's eyes.
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Lily pointed a shaking finger straight at Evelyn’s shocked face. Tears streamed down her flushed cheeks as her voice rang out across the silent backyard, carrying a horror that chilled everyone to the bone.
"YOU CAN'T MARRY HER, DADDY! SHE LOCKED MOMMY UNDERNEATH THIS POOL!"
