The Anniversary

by Cole Baxter

Genres: Women's Fiction; Domestic Thrillers

Synopsis

I gaze across the candlelit table into the eyes of the man I love. It’s our anniversary dinner, a celebration of our marriage, of how far we’ve come. But within hours our romantic date has ended in murder…

When I wake in a hospital bed, blinking painfully under the blinding white lights, I hear a voice saying there has been a car accident. My heart misses a beat when they say I was driving—and that I’ve killed someone.

My panic turns to relief when I see my husband rush into the room. But then he nods along with the officers explaining the charges against me.

I can’t breathe. I know I wasn’t the one driving. Tom was.

I’m told I just don’t remember because of the shock. But when I catch Tom’s eye, I don’t see the protective, honest man I’ve loved for five years. He’s now a stranger to me.

As I drift in and out, I hear Tom inventing stories about my violent history and drinking. The love of my life has betrayed me, and I must find out why.

Before I lose my freedom—or my life…

An absolutely gripping psychological thriller packed with jaw-dropping twists. For fans of The Doctor’s Wife, The Marriage and The Housemaid.

See what readers are saying about Cole Baxter:

“Will keep you turning the pages… a wild rollercoaster ride that will leave you breathless!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I truly do not know how Cole Baxter continues to turn out these absolutely incredible books! Each one is better than the last… the suspense level is off the chart!… mind-blowing… plot twists and turns that are literally jaw-dropping.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Cole Baxter always gives us great twisty turny stories that keep you guessing until the end and this is no exception… a surprising ending… I never see these coming.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Thrilling… hooked me and would not let me go. I lost many hours of sleep, just could not put it down.” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I really couldn’t put this book down!” Goodreads reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

 

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Release date: April 19, 2024

Publisher: Bookouture

Print pages: 320

Sample

As they approached the grand entrance of the restaurant, Catherine’s heart swelled with anticipation. She had never been to any place quite as fancy as this as they usually kept to their small town of Eldon when they dined out. The exterior boasted a harmonious blend of modern design and a touch of rustic charm, drawing in her attention. Sleek, floor-to-ceiling windows graced the façade and offered a tantalizing glimpse into the vibrant world within. A delightful sidewalk patio extended in front, featuring wrought-iron tables and chairs adorned with plush cushions. Lush greenery, carefully arranged in ornate planters, added a touch of nature to the urban landscape.

Stepping through the opulent doors of Subito was like entering a realm of refined enchantment. The interior design was a symphony of modern elegance and timeless charm, carefully curated to provide an unforgettable dining experience. An impressive chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a soft and inviting glow over the space, framed art pieces lined the walls, and the atmosphere was an exquisite blend of warmth, sophistication, and conviviality.

The host was the epitome of polished professionalism and genuine warmth. With a poised demeanor and a welcoming smile, he exuded an air of sophistication. A smile greeted them as they wandered closer toward him, and his eyes lit up with enthusiasm as they engaged in friendly conversation.

“Good evening. Would you be the Morris party of two?”

“Yes, we’re here for our six o’clock reservation. It’s for our fifth wedding anniversary.”

Tom was always the first to speak up for the two of them. Catherine didn’t mind. After all, it would save her draining her social battery before dinner. Over the last ten years, it had grown hard for her to trust and interact with new people. Despite knowing she only needed to speak with this new man once, it would remain socially taxing for her.

“Ah yes! I recall our conversation, Mr. Morris. If I may suggest, our lamb chops are exquisite this time of year. And I must recommend the calamari as an appetizer. It’s the perfect palate cleanser.”

“Thank you. We’ll take your recommendations into account when we order. Lamb sounds like a lovely meal.” Tom’s voice exuded confidence.

Again, it did not bother Catherine that he hadn’t consulted her on if she wanted the lamb to eat, and she knew he probably wouldn’t before he ordered. Tom nearly always ordered for them both, and she had become used to it over the years.

“Perfect! Please, allow me to show you to our private dining area. I’m sure you will love the atmosphere of the oak room.”

The host guided them to their table with grace. As they proceeded further into Subito, the main dining area unfolded before them in all its grandeur. The open kitchen allowed guests a captivating view of the culinary magic happening behind the scenes. Stainless steel surfaces gleamed, and state-of-the-art cooking equipment were a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to excellence. Catherine watched as skilled chefs orchestrated their craft, creating gastronomic masterpieces with precision and artistry.

Tom extended his arm, guiding Catherine toward a small table in the secluded Oak Room. As they settled into their chairs, a sense of coziness washed over her. The intimate setting encouraged couples to draw closer, and the room’s windows framed the outside world as a tranquil scene that provided a serene backdrop to the evening’s festivities.

Catherine’s fingers brushed against Tom’s as they exchanged tender smiles.

“Happy anniversary, my love.” His beautiful blue eyes held hers.

Catherine’s gaze filled with curiosity as she stared back at him hoping to rekindle her love for him. “Happy anniversary, Tom. I can’t believe it’s been five years already.”

Tom nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. “Time flies, doesn’t it? But every moment with you has been a cherished memory, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.” The timbre of his voice was deep and warm.

An impeccably dressed and dedicated server interrupted their intimate conversation. A warm smile graced his lips. “Good evening, Mr. and Mrs. Morris. All of us here at Subito are glad to have you as guests for such a wonderful celebration of love. My name is Clint, and I will be your server for the evening.” With a delicate flourish, he presented the menus, beautifully bound books that promised a symphony of flavors and textures. “This is our menu. It contains well-thought-out lists of all the culinary delights our cooks can create. To begin, please allow me to guide you through our drinks list on the second to last page. Do either of you have anything in mind that you would like to start with?”

“What do you have for wine?” Tom asked.

Catherine looked at him with a frown. He was supposed to be the one driving tonight, and they’d already had some at home prior to coming here. Still, Tom was going to do what Tom wanted and Catherine sighed, knowing full well there was no telling him what he could and could not do. If he wanted to have a glass of wine, he would. She figured it would be absorbed by their meal in any case, so she shouldn’t have to worry too much about it. If worse came to worse, she could always drive them home as she wasn’t planning to drink.

“Well, our most popular are Riondo, Moët & Chandon Impérial, Mumm Napa, and Meranda-Nixon Catawba Estate. Do any of those pique your interest, Mr. Morris?” the server dutifully replied.

“I’m not too sure. What’s the most expensive you carry?” Tom’s electric blue eyes perused the menu.

He was clearly unaware of the shocked gaze Catherine was sending his way. Tom had never been a big spender. Quite the opposite, in fact. Catherine’s eyes glossed over the menu with intent. She had become immensely interested in the prices, all of which she found to be way out of Tom’s normal spending range. Some items didn’t even have price tags, which usually meant if you had to ask, you couldn’t afford it. What did Tom have up his sleeve? Sure, it was their anniversary, but to spend so much? Something was definitely going on.

“Ah, that would be our Nicolas Feuillatte. It is the best champagne on our menu. They make it from brut rosé in France. It is a hundred dollars per six ounces. If you are curious about its taste, I’ve been told by many customers that it reminds them of a tropical vacation, and I’d have to agree. Would you like to try a glass, Mr. Morris?” The server tilted his head.

“No, no.”

A wave of relief washed over Catherine.

“I would like a bottle for the table.”

Catherine’s eyes widened. Had Tom gone mad? This was nothing like the husband she had been married to for five years. Even in the years she’d known him before that, he’d never ordered anything so extravagant.

The server clasped his hands together, a wide smile forming across his pale face. “Of course, Mr. Morris. Is there anything else I can do for you? Appetizers?”

Tom waved the man off. “No. I think we would both like some time to peruse your menu. Thank you for the offer.”

The server bowed and took his leave.

Catherine’s mind was alive with curiosity. The intimate, luxurious ambiance of the restaurant now seemed suspicious, as if they’d been transported into a world of luxury that Tom surely had not meant them to have. At least, he never had before. What was he up to? A seed of doubt took root, casting a shadow over her mind that should have been filled with nothing but pure joy.

On the other side of the table, Tom had pulled out his phone and was typing away, sending a message to an unknown person, which wasn’t unusual. Tom was always conducting some sort of business or answering the questions of various townspeople who phoned him or texted him for advice at all hours.

Catherine’s wandering thoughts trapped her gaze on her normally cheap husband. The selection of the venue, the ordering of the expensive champagne, it didn’t fit into the life she’d known with him. She couldn’t help but feel a nagging sense of unease, and finally, she voiced her concerns.

“Tom.” She kept her voice soft but determined. “Can we talk about something?”

Tom looked up from his phone, his dark brow arching slightly as he sensed the seriousness in her tone. “Of course, dear. What’s on your mind?”

Catherine took a deep breath, trying to gather her thoughts. “Please don’t take this the wrong way. I’m having a wonderful time, and I truly appreciate the effort you’ve put into making tonight special. But, well, I couldn’t help but notice that the cost of that champagne is not what you would normally spend on such luxuries.”

Tom’s expression shifted from curiosity to understanding. He set his phone on the table and turned to face her fully. “I suppose it is odd for me to order something so above our means normally. Are you worried I can’t afford it?”

Catherine nodded; her gaze fixed on the tablecloth. “Yes. I’m also a little worried about you. This isn’t your normal behavior.” She played with the fabric napkin, folding it between her fingers as she continued to avert her gaze. “I know this is a special occasion, but I wouldn’t mind if you wanted to spend less. I mean, the gas price to get here alone must have been crazy. Do we even have the budget for all this?”

She continued to sit, waiting for him to answer, but Tom remained silent. Finally, she turned her head toward him and raised her eyes to find him staring at her with a smile and something unreadable in his eyes. As her gaze met his, his smile widened.

“I appreciate your concern, sweetheart. I should explain. My decision to celebrate here was made with careful consideration, and I’ve already taken everything into account, so don’t worry your pretty little head over it. How about we just enjoy the evening? When the champagne arrives, you will have a glass to celebrate, and I’m sure that will go a long way to helping you enjoy the evening.”

Catherine smiled, knowing he wouldn’t answer her on the money subject any further. For now, she needed to dissuade her husband’s next line of conversation. “I’m sure it would, but you know I can’t have alcohol with my medication.” Her forehead creased in worry as she bit her lip.

Tom’s lips curled into a playful pout. “Ah, yes, your medication. Always impeding life’s brief pleasures.” He sighed and shook his head as his fingers tapped on the table.

Catherine chuckled. “It’s not just about the medication, Tom. You know I’m a lightweight with alcohol, even without the meds.”

Tom leaned forward, resting his sharp chin on his fist. “Darling, this isn’t just any champagne. It’s a celebration in a glass from France. A symphony of bubbles that dance a tropical tune on your tongue and whisk your worries away. You heard Clint it’s like joy in liquid form,” he said, apparently trying to entice her into trying it.

Catherine raised an eyebrow; a hint of amusement filled her at his words, and she smiled. “Joy in liquid form, huh? You make it sound like some kind of happiness elixir.”

He nodded, a humorous grin tugging at the corners of his lips. “Exactly! An elixir that can transform you from mundane to magical, if only for a moment. You’ll have boundless amounts of fun. After all, I know it makes you more fun to be around.” He sent a sly wink in her direction.

Her cheeks flamed. It didn’t surprise her at all that Tom was probably planning to take advantage of her loopiness later if she were to mix the alcohol with her medication. There were certain things about her husband that she expected. Like his voracious sexual appetite. And not just with her—when she didn’t exactly fall in line with his ideas, he went looking elsewhere.

The reminder of his infidelity left a sour note on her tongue. She didn’t exactly love Tom anymore, but she was married to him, and she believed in her vows. She wanted to try to make things work, and he’d promised her he would be faithful after the last time. So Catherine gazed at him with a mixture of intrigue and caution. “You certainly have a way with words, Tom. But I shouldn’t let your eloquence sway me this time. I already shared a glass of wine with you at home. That is more than I should ever have with this medication.”

Tom feigned a dramatic sigh, placing a pale hand over his heart. “Catherine, sweetheart, you make it sound like I’m trying to lead you astray. All I want is for us to enjoy our anniversary to its fullest. Besides, I’m here at your side, what could actually go wrong other than you loosen up a bit? It’s our fifth anniversary, darling, let’s live a little.” He reached for her hand and squeezed her fingers.

Catherine laughed. “You’re quite the charmer, Tom. I’ll give you that. Alright, I won’t deny that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to taste joy in liquid form.”

Leaning back in his chair, Tom regarded her with a victorious expression. As their animated conversation meandered to an end, Tom shifted slightly in his seat and leaned closer to Catherine. “Excuse me, darling, I need to use the men’s room.” He raised her hand and kissed the back of it before standing.

As Tom walked away, Catherine’s gaze fell on his phone. A subtle curiosity tugged at the edges of her mind, the allure of exploring the digital realm of Tom’s life becoming increasingly tempting. Who was he talking to all the time? And who was so important that he had to answer them tonight of all nights? Her fingers toyed with the fabric of the tablecloth, her thoughts momentarily divided between the present desire to look away and the potential secrets held within the phone before her.

Her gaze flickered to the phone once more, a surge of temptation flooding her senses. Her heart raced with the exhilaration of the forbidden, and with a mixture of anticipation and guilt, Catherine reached for the phone, her pulse quickening as her fingertips brushed against the smooth surface. As she held the device in her hands, a moment of hesitation washed over her. Did she really want to know who Tom had been texting with? Catherine set the phone back down, her sense of propriety ultimately prevailing over her curiosity.

But just as she was about to release the device, a soft vibration shook it in her fingers—the unmistakable alert of an incoming message. Catherine froze, her heart skipping a beat as her eyes widened in surprise. She focused her gaze on the screen; her internal struggle reignited. The message notification illuminated the screen, casting a soft glow on Catherine’s features as she stared at it, torn between curiosity and the guilt that threatened to engulf her.

She glanced toward the bathrooms, then tapped the screen to see who had messaged her husband. Her heart dropped at the name that flashed on the screen for half a second. She regretted looking at it now. She drew her hand back, leaving the phone in its original position.

Tom returned, his smile warm and inviting as he took his seat next to her. “Everything okay, sweetheart?” His voice was laced with concern as he reached for her hand.

Catherine offered him a reassuring smile she didn’t really feel at that moment. “Yes, everything’s fine.” She quickly decided not to let the woman’s text ruin her evening with Tom and brightened her smile. “I was just lost in thought for a moment.”

Tom nodded, his eyes lingering on her for a beat longer before their conversation resumed its natural flow. The waiter returned a moment later with the champagne, and Tom placed their dinner orders, opting for what the host had suggested when they’d first arrived. For the remainder of the dinner, Tom had put his phone away and focused solely on her, his loving gaze lingering on her throughout the meal. Despite the text message and the way her head swam from the champagne, Catherine felt it had been an amazing meal and one of the best nights she’d had in a long time.

“This has been wonderful, Tom,” she murmured as they headed to the car.

Tom squeezed her fingers and tugged her a little, causing her to stumble. “Careful, now, sweetheart, the evening isn’t over yet.”