Emily squinted against the harsh sunlight reflecting off the pier, her head pounding with each step. The salty sea breeze did little to ease her hangover as she and Lucas approached the quaint cafe, its weathered wooden sign creaking in the wind.
"I need caffeine. Stat," Emily muttered, her voice raspy.
Lucas chuckled, his hand on the small of her back. "I think we all do after last night."
As they entered, Emily's eyes immediately locked onto Ryan, sitting at a corner table. Her stomach clenched, a mix of residual anger and unexpected nerves.
"Let's get this over with," she whispered to Lucas, steeling herself.
They made their way over, the floorboards groaning beneath their feet. Ryan stood, his usually impeccable appearance slightly disheveled, dark circles under his eyes.
"Emily,
