Chapter 7

I tossed my phone aside and rushed into the bathroom for a quick, hot shower.

As I was drying my hair, the doorbell rang.

I thought it was Liam, back again, so I quickly threw on my pajamas and opened the door.

"Did you forget anything—"

The words caught in my throat.

Standing outside was Ryder, holding a paper bag.

"Your clothes."

"How did you know where I live?"

"Hardly. Star debater for the Law School. Just had to ask around a bit."

I reached for the paper bag, but he suddenly raised his arm, using the momentum to slip inside.

"What are you doing! You delivered the stuff, now leave!"

Ryder closed the door behind him and took a step closer.

"Alex, did you forget something?"

"W-what?"

He backed me against the wall, one hand braced beside my head.

"Last night, you promised to go on a date with me today."

"...Do drunken promises count?"

Before I could finish, Ryder pinched my chin, rubbing my lower lip. "This place… it was very enthusiastic in responding to me last night."

I was both mortified and angry, and pushed him away hard.

"Ryder! What do you want?"

His eyes darkened, and he dropped his playful expression.

"Simple. Give me a chance."

"A chance for what?"

"A chance to pursue you. I know you've liked Liam for years, but since he doesn't appreciate it…"

My heart jolted. "You… how did you know?"

"Alex, did you really think Liam was the only one paying attention to you?"

Before I could fully process the meaning of his words,

He suddenly leaned in and kissed my forehead lightly. "Get some rest."

By the time I came to my senses, he was gone.

At the same moment, my phone vibrated. Liam had sent a long message.

I hesitated for a moment, then opened it:

"Alex, we need to talk. About what I said last night… that wasn’t what I truly meant. Can you give me a chance to explain?"

I stared at the message for a long time, my fingertip hovering above the screen, but ultimately, I didn't reply.