Alexis let the silence stretch between them, letting him believe, for just a moment, that his words had sunk in.Then she smiled.Not the soft, vulnerable kind of smile he was probably hoping for.But a slow, knowing, and dangerous one."You really are something, Ryan," she said, shaking her head slightly. "But let me make one thing clear to you." She leaned in, just enough to lower her voice, her gaze unwavering. "I don't need you. I don’t need Julian. And I sure as hell don’t need to be manipulated into fighting battles that aren’t mine."Ryan’s smirk faltered.She stood up, smoothing out her dress. "Thank you for the entertainment, but I think we’re done here."Ryan grabbed her wrist just as she turned."Alexis, wait..""Let. Go."There was no room for argument in her voice, and Ryan hesitated before releasing her.She straightened, exhaling sharply. "Enjoy your little schemes, Ryan. Just don’t expect me to play along."With that, she walked away, leaving Ryan staring after her.Al
Last Updated : 2025-03-06 Read more