As it reading her mind, Ryan quickly added, “I mentioned we went to college together and recently reconnected”
Laura relaxed slightly, grateful for his discretion. As they all settled onto the blanket, Lisa began unpacking an impressive array of gourmet sandwiches, fruits, and pastries
“So, Laura,” Tim said, passing her a plate. “Ryan tells us you’re from Connecticut. What brings you to the Big Apple?
Laura froze for a moment, unsure how to answer. She couldn’t exactly tell them she’d fled her failing marriage and ended up in Ryan’s bed. “Oh, um, just a little impromptu vacation,” she said lightly. “Needed a change of scenery, you know?“!
Lisa nodded sympathetically. “I hear that. Sometimes you just need to shake things up a bit. How are you liking New York so far?“”
Grateful for the change of subject, Laura launched into an enthusiastic description of her whirlwind tour with Ryan. As she spoke, she found herself relaxing, drawn in by Lisa and Tim’s genuine warmth and easy conversation.
“You should have seen her on the golf course this morning,” Ryan chimed in, a note of pride in his voice “She absolutely schooled me
Tim laughed. “Now that I would’ve paid to see. Our boy Ryan here fancies himself quite the golf pro”
“Hey, I’ll have you know I’ve won the club championship three years running, “Ryan protested good–naturedly
Lisa rolled her eyes. “And we never hear the end of it. Laura, you’ve done us all a favor by taking him down a peg.”
As the conversation flowed, Laura found herself opening up more. She told them about her “job as a graphic designer“, carefully editing out any mention of her marriage or the real reason for her “vacation.”
“That sounds fascinating,” Lisa said. “I’ve always been in awe of creative types. I can barely draw a stick figure.”
Laura laughed. “It’s not all glamorous, trust me. Sometimes I feel like I spend more time arguing with clients about font choices than actually designing”
“Speaking of work,” Tim interjected, turning to Ryan. “How’s that new project coming along? The one with the, uh, controversial
client?
Ryan’s expression tightened almost imperceptibly. “It’s… progressing. You know how these things go. Lots of red tape to cut through.”
Laura’s curiosity was piqued, but she sensed Ryan’s reluctance to discuss it further. She fled the information away for later, wondering what kind of “controversial” work Ryan was involved in.
As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, Lisa and Tim started packing up the remnants of their picnic “This was wonderful,” Lisa said, pulling Laura into another hug. We should do it again soon. Maybe dinner next week?”
Laura felt a pang of regret. “Oh, that would be lovely, but I’m actually heading back to Connecticut tomorrow.”
She saw the flash of disappointment on their faces, quickly masked by understanding smiles. ‘Well, next time you’re in town then,” Tim said warmly. “You’ve got our numbers now. Don’t be a stranger.”
As they said their goodbyes, Laura felt a mix of emotions swirling in her chest. She’d genuinely enjoyed meeting Ryan’s friends, felt a connection with them that she hadn’t experienced in years.
CHAPTERNNI
But it also hammered home the reality of her situation. This wasn’t her life. She couldn’t pretend it was, no matter how much she might want to
The walk back to Ryan’s car was quiet, both of them lost in thought. As they approached the sleek wehicle, Ryan finally broke the
silence.
“I hope that wasn’t too overwhelming “he said softly. “Lisa and Tim can be a bit much sometimes, but they mean well ”
Laura shook her head, managing a small smile. “No, they were lovely. Really. I had a great time.”
Ryan studied her face for a moment, concern etching his features. “But…?”
Laura sighed, leaning against the car. “But… this isn’t real, Ryan. As much as I’ve enjoyed these past few days, as much as I wish things could be different… I can’t stay. You know that, right?”
Ryan’s expression softened. He reached out, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. “I know,” he said quietly. “I just. I can’t help hoping, you know? Being with you again, it feels right. Like maybe we were given a second chance.”
“Ryan, I…” she began, but he cut her off with a gentle tinger to her lips.
“You don’t have to explain,” he said. “I understand. Let’s just… enjoy the time we have left, okay? No pressure, no expectations. Just us.
Н
Laura nodded, relief and gratitude washing over her. “Okay,” she whispered “Just us
”
CHAPTER TEN–YOU’VE BEEN SERVED
1/2
CHAPTER TEN–YOU’VE BEEN SERVED
The next morning, Laura slipped out of bed, careful not to wake him. She dressed quietly, gathering her few belongings. As she zipped up her bag, she heard Ryan stir.
“You’re leaving,” he said softly. It wasn’t a question.
