Stepping out of the coffee shop, Leanne tucked the old notebook into her bag.

Her Phantom was parked quietly by the curb, with Jake holding the door open for her as Skyler's call came through.

Leanne answered, and he asked, "Hey Leanne, you free today?"

"What's up?" she inquired.

"I wanted to apologize in person for what happened last time."

Skyler had been sorting through his tangled relationship with Grace. It had been nine years, nearly a third of his life, woven into every aspect of his existence, including emotions, finances, and career. Cutting ties was time-consuming.

It wasn't easy. Skyler's voice carried a hint of fatigue, not physical, but emotional exhaustion.

"I was planning to turn the villa at Majestic Meadows into our marital home, but that's off the table now. I'm throwing a farewell party tonight. I'd be glad if you could make it."

that close to him. If it weren't for Curtis, they'd probably be strangers. Skyler's apology was clearly

to have let Grace's actions drive a wedge between them. Leanne knew she wouldn't want to lose her friend over anything if it were

"Send me the address."

the party was in full swing when Leanne arrived at

The pool's shimmering blue water reflected the lights,

by the poolside,

be here soon." His lip scabbed over, and the bruise near his cheekbone hadn't completely faded. His tone was sincere. "Sorry for the hassle, for

didn't hold him accountable. "It

she wouldn't have kept making mistakes. I'm responsible for whatever she

too late to realize that

harsh that day. But I

about who she liked and disliked.

Skyler on the back. "Bro, turning

there to clear my head," Skyler tried to sound upbeat. "Next time I'm back, Curtis might have that little girl

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