Aaron The evening feels oddly surreal as I sit across from Chloe, the soft golden light of the restaurant’s chandelier above us casting a warm, almost romantic glow over the space. The quiet hum of soft music in the background mixes with the gentle clink of silverware against plates, creating an atmosphere that should be comforting, but tonight it only feels like a heavy cloak draped over my shoulders. My mind feels distant, floating somewhere between guilt and confusion, and no matter how hard I try, I can’t shake the image of Meghan from my mind. I glance across the table at Chloe, who’s smiling as she talks about a new boutique she’s discovered downtown. Her voice has that familiar lightness to it, full of energy and warmth, and for a moment, I let myself listen. She’s passionate abou

