Chapter 22 "A Cold Stare"

Eva's hands fluttered in a silent plea as her uncles' voices buzzed around her, a symphony of well-meaning chaos. "Please, not now," she signed desperately, the frustration evident in her furrowed brow. "Uncle Owen, Uncle Axel, I appreciate your concern, but setting me up on a blind date is the last thing I need right now. Dating is nowhere near the top of my priority list."

A flicker of disappointment crossed their faces, quickly replaced by understanding. Uncle Owen, the elder of the two, squeezed her shoulder gently. "We understand, Eva," he signed back, his voice warm. "Your career is blossoming, and your focus should be there. We just wanted to see you happy, and sometimes, a little companionship can do wonders."

Uncle Axel, ever the optimist, winked at her. "But we won't push it further," he signed, a mischievous glint in his eye. "However, if you ever change your mind, remember, your cool uncles have the inside scoop on the best bachelors in town!"

A small smile tugged at Eva's