Page 7 of Love In Harbor Falls

“You can open an art gallery here in the city,” my mother said.

“I can’t believe you’re leaving.” A pout formed across Hannah’s lips.

“I need to do this. I can’t stay in this city anymore, not after what Darren did. I need to make a fresh start, and I believe Harbor Falls is the perfect place to do that. Everything felt so right when I was there.”

“Well, I don’t want you to leave, but you need to do what you feel is best for you,” my mother said as she stood up and hugged me.

“Thanks, Mom. And I want you to know that I approve of Antonio. He seems like a wonderful man, and I can tell he makes you happy. If you’ll excuse me, I have a meeting regarding my divorce to attend to.”

I sat beside my lawyer at the long table with the cherry finish across from my soon-to-be ex-husband. I couldn’t even look at him anymore after what he’d done. He didn’t know I was moving to Harbor Falls, and that was how I wanted to keep it. I didn’t want much—only my share of what was rightfully mine.

“He can have the penthouse and all the furniture,” I told Darren’s attorney. “The only thing I want is the money I’m entitled to. I have no interest in the company or anything else.”

“And what about the emotional distress suit?” Darren’s lawyer asked.

“I’m dropping it. I want this divorce finalized as quickly as possible.”

My attorney and I walked out of the room, and as we were exiting the doors to the building, I felt someone lightly grab my arm.

“Why aren’t you fighting me for anything?” Darren asked.

“Because no amount of money or possessions could ever repair the damage you’ve done to me.”

I turned on my heels and walked away, hoping that would be the last time I’d ever have to see him again.

CHAPTER6

Adalyn

The past two weeks went by quickly as I prepared to move to Harbor Falls. Between ordering furniture for the new house and getting everything for the art gallery, I had lost track of the days. To make it even sweeter, my divorce from Darren was finalized thanks to my lawyer's connection with the judge. Everything was all set, and the money was placed in my account. Now, it was time to say goodbye to my family and friends.

“I can’t believe you’re leaving me,” Luis cried as he hugged me.

“I’m not leaving you. I’m just moving to another state. We’ll still talk every day. After all, I will need your expertise for the art gallery as much as your friendship.”

He broke our embrace and gripped my shoulders. “As soon as the gallery is open, we’re coming to visit.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” A smile graced my lips. “I have plenty of guest rooms.”

After saying goodbye to Luis, I headed to my mother’s apartment. Saying goodbye to her and Hannah would be the hardest one yet.

“You be safe and call me every day. Do you understand me, Adalyn Marie?” my mother spoke swiftly as tears filled my eyes.

“I will, Mom. Don’t worry. I can take care of myself.”

“I know.” She pulled me into an embrace. “I’ll miss you.”

“And I’ll miss you. I’m only a plane ride away.”

The tears I fought hard to hold back made their way down my face. I promised myself I wouldn’t cry, but the tears won. After an emotional goodbye to my sister, I climbed into my brand-new white Jeep Wrangler and drove the ten-and-a-half hours it took to get to Harbor Falls. I was tired and hungry and only stopped for food once earlier in the day. I knew I should stop and get something to eat before heading to the empty house that awaited my arrival. After pulling into the parking lot of the Seaside Bar and Grille, I stepped inside.

“Grab any table you’d like,” a handsome man with dark hair and a bright smile spoke from behind the bar.

I looked around and seated myself at a small table for two by the window with a spectacular view of the water.

“Here’s a menu for you.”

I turned and caught the smile of the man who greeted me when I first walked in.

---