Chapter 42

Ryan's POV I stood there watching Serena drive away with Julian, the roses hanging limp in my hand like my crushed hopes. The car's taillights disappeared around the corner, taking with them any chance I had of talking to her tonight. Damn it. I loosened my tie, feeling like I couldn't breathe properly. The realization hit me like a physical blow—Serena was truly moving on. That designer with his smug smile and casual familiarity was stepping into the space I'd left vacant. I tossed the roses into a nearby trash can with more force than necessary. How had I forgotten that? Sophie had loved roses. "Mr. Blackwood?" Simon's voice came from behind me. My assistant had been waiting discreetly in the car. "Should we head back to the office?" "No," I said firmly. "We're not giving up." "What's the plan for tomorrow then, sir?" I stared at the now-empty street where Serena had just been. "Lilies," I said decisively. "She never liked roses. Serena preferred lilies." Simon cleared his throat unc