Chapter 137
~ Clinton ~
The drive to the Hamptons felt lighter than the week that had come before it. Sunlight danced across the windshield as I steered the car toward Juniper's, the fancy waterfront restaurant I had chosen for our afternoon together. Annie sat in the passenger seat, her window cracked just enough for the sea breeze to tease strands of her hair across her face. She looked happy—genuinely happy—and for a few precious hours, I let myself enjoy the feeling of normalcy.
We were shown to a quiet table with a view of the sparkling water. Annie's eyes widened the moment we sat down, taking in the elegant décor: soft linen tablecloths, crystal glassware, and walls adorned with original maritime art that gave the place both sophistication and soul.
"Wow, this restaurant is beautiful," she breathed, gaze sweeping across the room. "Look at the art it has—those paintings feel alive."
"It has character," I agreed, nodding as I settled into my chair.
