Lysa's voice trembled as she began to speak. "Ryder, I wanted to talk to you about us... about how I feel."
Ryder's expression softened, his eyes filled with empathy. "Lysa, I care about you deeply, but I think of you as a friend."
Lysa's heart sank, but she had expected this response. "I know, Ryder. But I needed to be honest with you... and with myself."
Ryder placed a gentle hand on her arm. "Lysa, you deserve someone who loves you for who you are. I hope you find that person."
As they spoke, Malaysia walked into the library, her eyes scanning the room until they landed on Ryder and Lysa. A flicker of unease crossed her face before she quickly masked it with a smile...