Chapter 65. Disclosure.

"Ryan! Ryan!" Rio called out frantically, his eyes pleading for sobriety. Frustrated, Rio continued, "Hey, man, look at me and answer!" Ryan gave him a sheepish smile, clearly inebriated. Just as his head began to fall onto the counter, Rio caught him in time. Sighing heavily, Rio watched him closely. What did Ryan mean by protecting him from Elena? Were they acquainted in the past?

"I will always protect you, Rio, because I love you so much," Ryan murmured sleepily, causing Rio to curse under his breath as he helped him up. It was only 2 p.m., yet Ryan was already wasted. For a brief moment, Rio pushed aside his own troubles and focused solely on getting Ryan sober again. He needed answers, and he needed them as soon as possible.

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Elena descended the stairs slowly, taking her time. Sleeping in till noon had made her realize that staying home was more stressful than working at the studio. Luca was out at the office, and she wasn't sure if Andrea was home either. Earlier,