The spray tan gave her skin a sun-kissed sheen and the dark circles under her eyes had softened, while the bruises seemed less noticeable.
The dress slid over her moisturised skin, fastening at the back with a discreet zipper. She paired it with silver strappy sandals and a matching clutch, letting her hair fall loosely around her shoulders.
With a light dusting of bronzer, a swoosh of mascara, and a slick of gloss, Shannon was ready.
A smile graced her lips, a first in weeks. Jamie had become a happy memory, one best locked away.
He’d never find out about Niall’s threats to hurt his father. That chapter had ended.
George and Trixie were safe, and Jamie would have moved on. Everything had settled.
Despite the relief, her chest tightened with emotion and the vacant hole in her heart hadn’t healed. These days, she simply survived.
A car horn pulled her from her thoughts. The morning sun fought through a misty haze, and the chilly air seemed a degree milder than the past few days.
“Holy shit, Shan. Is that really you?” Harry’s voice rang out as he leaned out from the back of the car.
His smile stretched wide, the corners of his eyes creasing with genuine pride.
“You’re a pretty wee thing in a mucky hoody, but you sure scrub up well.”
His expression was like a father watching his daughter on her wedding day.
Shannon hoisted the dress to her shins and climbed into the back seat beside him. “Isn’t it amazing what a fake tan and a few bucks can do?”
“Shannon, that tan only brightens your already beautiful face. You always make me so damn proud.” His voice caught on the last word.
She glanced over at him. “Harry, are you crying?”
“I don’t cry.” His laugh wheezed, raspy from too many cigarettes. “My son’s an asshole. He missed out on the best damn thing he ever had—you.”
The car rolled forward, and his hand covered hers, giving it a firm squeeze. “You deserve better than him, anyway.”
A prickling unease crawled up her spine at the mention of Niall.
“Hmm,” she murmured, barely acknowledging his comment.
“Right, then,” Harry said, leaning forward, “I need a brandy.”
He reached for the bottle on the shelf behind the driver and poured a generous measure for himself.
“I bought you champagne. You should take the day off tomorrow.”
Looking at his worn face, Shannon noticed the kindness and sincerity in his eyes. She let out a soft exhale, calling upon the strength within her to get through the day.
“Suppose I could spare one day off.” She smiled as the cork popped.
“I’m glad you came today, Shan. Maybe you and Mitch will hit it off. He’s always had an eye for you.”
He handed a glass of bubbles and sat back.
She tilted her head, meeting his gaze. “Don’t play matchmaker, Harry. You know my career comes first.”
He chuckled. “You’re certainly dedicated. I’ll give you that.”
Taking a sip of the champagne, Shannon’s lashes fluttered, her stomach flipping at the first taste of alcohol she’d had in a while.
“We’ve worked too hard to mess things up with boyfriends and all the drama that comes with them.”
