CHAPTER 77

RONNELL POV

The dim, amber glow of my office lamp cast long shadows across my face, a stark contrast to the swirling storm outside. I watched the rain streak down the windowpane, each droplet a reminder of the storm brewing within me.

I was foolish, utterly foolish, to believe that Blair and I could be something. What had I been thinking, inviting another woman into my life, especially after everything that had happened? I'd learned my lesson, hadn't I? Or was I doomed to repeat the same relationship mistakes?

With a bitter laugh, I lifted my glass of wine, the liquid sloshing against the sides. The taste was sharp and bitter, a fitting reflection of my mood. I took a long, contemplative sip, the warmth spreading through my body. It was a temporary respite from the cold, bleak reality that had settled over me.

I slumped back into the soft leather couch, my gaze wandering aimlessly around the room. The once-familiar surroundings felt alien, cold, and empty. I ran a hand through my hair