Chapter 57

The round glass table lacked a vintage ceramic vase or fresh flowers. The refrigerator wasn't stocked with delicious food. The walls bore no decorations, and the curtains weren't in Tessa's preferred color. Zachary closed his eyes, but the image of Tessa entwined with Stephen surfaced in his mind again. At this very moment, could they be engaged in something intimate? The pain in his heart was sharp and unmistakable. Before coming here, he had considered many possibilities, but not once had he imagined that Tessa might already be with someone else. They said heartbreak happened twice in a relationship. The first time was at the moment of the breakup. The second time was when you saw her with someone new. It turned out to be true. … The next day, the autumn air was crisp, and the sky was bright and clear. Having made plans to go out with Stephen, Tessa slept in until she woke naturally. After a simple breakfast, she began to dress and apply makeup. She chose a black long-sleev