Chapter 16

That night, Ethan went to “Lost & Found” by himself. It was the bar Natalie used to visit all the time before their marriage—and even after, sneaking out more than once until he dragged her back. Deafening music, psychedelic lights, and a packed crowd—everything about this place clashed with his world. He found the darkest corner booth and sat down. Then he ordered a whole line of the kind of showy, fancy cocktails Natalie had loved. He tried to imitate her as he remembered—tilting his head back and draining each glass in one go. The sharp liquor burned his throat and stomach, bringing no relief, only overwhelming bitterness and emptiness. The alcohol hit fast. Soon, his vision started to blur. In the spinning lights, it almost looked like Natalie was dancing right in the center of the floor—wearing a fire-red slip dress, moving wild and free to the music. She turned around, and through the noisy crowd, flashed him a dazzling, provocative smile—just as bright as when they first me