“She’s just my bro. Nothing more. No romantic feelings whatsoever.”
My steps faltered, my already shattered heart breaking into pieces once again.
I had known the truth for a long time.
But hearing him say it outright was still agony—like being cut alive.
“Ryan.”
I suddenly spoke up as I stepped toward the balcony.
Ryan froze, clearly not expecting me to appear out of nowhere. Instinctively, he asked,
“You… you heard everything?”
I didn’t respond. The silence turned so awkward that the guy next to him quickly made an excuse and left.
Eventually, Ryan broke it himself. He smirked, snuffing out his cigarette, and walked toward me.
“What, are you mad?”
“Come on, Sophia Hayes, there’s no need. Everything I just said was the truth. What happens in bed is mutual consent—you never disagreed, and it’s not like I could’ve forced you.”
“Don’t pout like that. You’re making me look like the bad guy here.”
He grabbed my chin, leaning in as if to kiss me.
I shoved him away as if I’d been burned, then slapped him hard across the face.
“Don’t touch me! You disgust me!”
Ryan started to get angry, but when he saw my tear-filled eyes, he froze.
“Yes, Ryan,” I admitted, my voice trembling. “I like you.”