Ryder's heart sank, and he pulled her closer, holding her tight. What had triggered this reaction? And how could he bring her back? He buried his face in her hair, inhaling deeply, trying to calm himself down. His anger would not touch her. Never again…
And yet, this was not the height of his anger.
Subtly, he felt her move in his arms and his heart skipped a beat. "Reana?" he whispered again, his voice full of hope.
She didn't respond, but she didn't need to. Ryder felt her hands wrap around his waist, holding him tight. It was a gentle touch, but it was enough. He felt a wave of relief wash over him, followed by a deep sense of tenderness.
He held her close, his face still buried in her hair, and let out a slow breath. "I'm sorry for frightening you. I tried my best to make it subtle," he whispered.
'Subtle?' Reana's mind registered. 'He called that subtle? Was that subtle?'
