CHAPTER 19

Sienna walked down the busy street, her thoughts tangled in a web of confusion. The city was alive around her—cars honking, people talking, the occasional laughter ringing through the air—but she felt strangely disconnected from it all.

She needed this.

A moment to breathe. A moment to be alone. A moment to feel like herself again, without Damian’s presence clouding her thoughts.

Her feet led her to a small park a few blocks away, where families gathered, couples strolled, and the world seemed a little more peaceful.

As she walked, she spotted an ice cream truck parked near the sidewalk, a small line forming in front of it. Without thinking much, she joined the queue, waiting her turn.

Maybe something sweet would help.

Maybe it would distract her from the ache in her chest.

When it was her turn, she ordered a simple vanilla cone, paid the vendor, and walked over to an empty bench.

She sat down, watching the world move around her.