I was taken aback that Ryan was delving into my personal life. Even though I knew he liked me, I didn’t appreciate him asking so straight–up about my relationships.

I pushed him away and said flatly, “That’s between me and him. Don’t ask.”

“Victoria, do you think I don’t deserve to be your man?” Ryan suddenly got emotional and

spoke with intensity.

I turned to him with a small smile. “You’re just like a little brother to me. There’s no way

anything inappropriate could happen. Ryan, I hope you understand.”

“I don’t.” Ryan leaned against the window, frustration in his eyes. “I saw you and him cooking together today. It made me feel weird, like the next thing I’d hear would be a

wedding invite or news of your baby’s one–month party.”

I froze for a second and then laughed at him. “You’ve got quite the imagination,” I said,

rolling my eyes.

“If it was just my imagination, fine. But I’m scared it’s real.” Ryan’s eyes were red as he

looked at me with a sad expression. “You just got divorced. You’re not thinking about

getting married again, are you?”

I shook

I’m not that reckless. And you should focus

head and

thought you’d be less

trying hard. But no matter how real a

at me. “I know I was wrong, I

forgave him easily. “You cared enough to try, and that counts.” As I said, some memories popped

and then laughed bitterly.

1/3

22

Chapter 282

asked, curious since we hadn’t known each

67%

me down right away.” Ryan’s eyes got intense. “Scared you’d think I’m too young and irresponsible and

block about younger guys. They always seem to

where I was born, but I

like.”

Ryan, enough.” I cut him off. “I’m not in the mood for romance. I’m glad

let’s be

his head suddenly. “No way. I’m leaving–Hachester soon. I don’t

slow horses and carriages. We can just text

something’s up.”

things have more meaning when said face to face.” Ryan

then, Silas’s voice called from nearby. “Mr. Jennings, the cake’s ready. You and Ms.

+23)

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