Derick’s POV

The meeting dragged on for hours, and just when I thought I’d finally make it out, Mr. Cole insisted we have dinner. A “celebratory meal,” he called it—his way of cementing our new business deal. I couldn’t refuse. Not without raising questions.

But every passing second away from her clawed at my chest. Macy.

I missed her—her laugh, her scent, her voice. I kept checking the time like a man possessed. As soon as I was free, I stopped at her favorite wine shop and grabbed that sweet red blend she loved. Roses too—deep red, the kind she always said made her feel like the heroine of a...