I remained on the steps for a long moment, listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below.

The air was cold, but for the first time in three years, I felt like I could breathe.

“Mrs. Arden?” Mr. Han said softly. “The guests are waiting for your address in the ballroom.”

I looked down at my hands.

The simple gold band I had worn for Daniel was gone, replaced only by a faint, pale mark on my skin.

“Let them know I will be there in a moment,” I said.

“Yes, ma’am,” he said, turning to go inside.

I looked out at the dark ocean one last time.

The storm had passed, leaving the air clear and the stars visible above the water.

I turned my back on the road, walked through the glass doors, and stepped into my resort.