Chapter 21: The past

Annie and Damien walked in silence, the sounds of the town gradually fading as they ventured further away from the bustling streets and into the quieter outskirts. The trees grew thicker, offering them a secluded spot far from curious eyes and ears. It was exactly what Annie needed—privacy.

Damien's restlessness became palpable. He couldn't stay silent for long.

"So tell me what you've been doing. I want to hear all about it," he said, his voice cutting through the quiet.

Annie kept her gaze straight ahead, her face a careful mask of indifference. "I've just been working," she replied curtly.

"Just working?" he echoed, his tone laced with disbelief. "That's it? That's all you have to say after all this time."

Annie sighed internally. She knew where this was headed. She'd been bracing for it ever since he had reappeared in her life.