Chapter 23

After Roxanne left, Callum finished the bowl of soup. But it no longer tasted the same. Five years away from the kitchen meant she could never have recreated that taste exactly. It was only his own self-deception that made him believe otherwise. And now that she had left again, he had no excuse left to cling to. Three days later, against the doctor's better judgment, Callum checked himself out of the hospital to attend Roxanne's farewell party. It was just as grand as it had been five years ago. This time, Project SkyDome aimed even higher—toward goals that seemed almost impossible. Yet, Roxanne wasn't a single bit deterred. She was devoted to her career, and whenever she spoke of the project, her eyes burned with dazzling light. Callum didn't sit at the front this time. He chose a quiet corner instead, silently watching the entire event from the shadows. Pain tore at him as he saw her step through the doors of the laboratory. The heavy doors shut behind her, seeing her w