He'd remembered. That I'd wanted to expand. That my jewelry design business was my dream but I'd been struggling to grow it.

"And after the year?"

"We go our separate ways. Clean break. You'll never have to see me again if you don't want to."

Never see him again. That's what I'd wanted two years ago. What I'd needed.

So why did the thought make my chest ache?

"I need to think about it."

"I understand." He stood, pulling out his wallet. "But Derek's lawyers are moving fast. I need an answer by Friday."

Three days.

"I'll call you."

He left cash on the table for both our drinks and...