Jack and I lean against the railing, savoring the gentle breeze that carries the faint scent of salt. It’s one of those moments that feels almost too perfect to be real—a stolen pocket of serenity after the whirlwind of the last few days.
Jack stands close to me, as we talk about the wine-tasting function and laugh over the strange descriptions we came up with for some of the wines. His laughter is rich and genuine, and it makes my chest swell with warmth.
But then I see him.
Ethan.
He’s walking toward us, his tall frame cutting a sharp figure against the bright backdrop of the deck. Dressed in a crisp white shirt and dark slacks, his demeanor is polished and composed, yet there’s something about the way his eyes gleam that sets me on edge.
Jack notices my sudden shift in mood and fol
