CHAPTER FORTY-TWO - *BEACH GETAWAY*

Anna stood in front of the full-length mirror in her spacious new apartment, smoothing down the front of her designer dress. The fabric felt luxurious against her skin, a constant reminder of how much her life had changed in the past few weeks. She took a deep breath, still not quite believing that this was her reality now. A gentle knock on the door broke her from her reverie. "Come in," she called out, knowing it would be Erik. The door opened, and Erik's tall, imposing figure filled the doorway. His eyes lit up as they fell on Anna, a smile spreading across his face. "You look breathtaking," he said, his voice low and appreciative. Anna felt a blush creep up her cheeks. "Thank you," she replied, turning to face him fully. "You don't look so bad yourself." Erik chuckled, stepping into the room. He was dressed in a tailored suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and lean physique. "Are you ready for tonight?" he asked, offering her his arm. Anna nodded, grabbing her clutch fro