He looked exhausted but still smiling, like the man I once loved without hesitation. “Happy anniversary,” he said gently. “I’m sorry about dinner. Ethan needed me. But I didn’t want to end the day without celebrating with you.”
I stared at the flowers, then at his face, unsure whether to cry or laugh.
He stepped closer and opened the velvet box, revealing a delicate diamond necklace. “I chose it myself,” he added softly.
“Damien…” My voice trembled.
He brushed a strand of hair away from my face, his touch gentle. “You said earlier you had something to tell me. A surprise, right?”
I opened my mouth, but no words came out. Too many thoughts crowded my mind—too many truths that suddenly felt dangerous to speak.
Before I could respond, his phone rang.
I didn’t need to look. I already knew.
Camille.
His hand paused briefly before he exhaled. “I need to take this.”
“Right now?” I asked quietly.
“It’s important. Work matters.”
I forced a faint smile. “Can’t it wait until later?”