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Alexander pulled a sleek, heavy titanium card from his inner pocket and tossed it onto the ivory tablecloth. It clattered against the crystal water glass, sliding to a halt inches from the restored silver cuff link box. / Chapter 17 / 30

Chapter 17 - The Riverfront ViewAt 8:00 PM sharp, Erin stepped out of her town car in front of Riverpark, a stunning upscale restaurant overlooking the East River.

The night air was crisp, and the Manhattan skyline glittered across the water like a scattered constellation of diamonds.

Marcus was waiting for her near the outdoor terrace, looking striking in a tailored charcoal suit. When he saw her approach, his face lit up with an affectionate, effortless smile. He stepped forward, pulling her into a warm, grounded embrace and pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.

“You look breathtaking,” Marcus murmured, holding her hand as they walked toward their private table by the glass doors.

“Thank you,” Erin replied, settling into the plush leather chair. “It feels good to finally close the book on every lingering piece of the past.”

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Marcus raised his glass of sparkling water in a toast. “To closing old books, and writing brilliant new ones.”

Erin clinked her glass against his, the crystal chiming softly in the quiet night air.

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