The night air was cool and still, the kind that crept up your sleeves and settled into your skin. I had dressed simply—dark jeans, a fitted black jacket, boots. I stood near the door, glancing at the time again. It was almost 8 p.m. Dinner at Vinie’s.
I couldn’t show up empty-handed.
It wasn’t just about manners—it was Vinie’s home, his wife, his daughter. After everything, they deserved more than just my presence. I headed out, deciding I’d stop by a*****e nearby. A nice bottle of wine, maybe a cake Elizabeth would love.
The upscale gourmet store near Ravencrest Plaza was still open when I arrived. The warm light glowed through the glass windows, and the scent of baked goods teased the air even before I stepped inside.
I went straight for the wine shelf—my fingers brushing over import
