After everything that had happened—from the hospital to Ryan's penthouse—Emily found herself moving with quiet caution. She wasn't afraid, not exactly, but she was wary. Wary of how close she had let Ryan get, wary of how her system had nearly shattered under pressure, and wary of what came next.
So, when she agreed to go on an exclusive date with Ryan, she made sure her system knew. There would be no unexpected switches this time. She needed control.
———
**Phone Call – Emily & Kia**
Emily flopped onto her bed, her fingers fiddling with the hem of her sweater as she held the phone to her ear. "Are you sure this isn't a mistake?" she asked, voice quiet.
Kia sighed on the other end. "Emily, you can't live your life waiting for people to leave. Maybe Ryan is different."
Emily bit her lip. "But what if he's not?"
"Then you'll deal with it. Like you always do. But Em… you deserve to be happy too."
Emily exhaled slowly. "I don't even know what to wear."
Kia grinned, though Emily couldn't see it. "Funny you say that. I may or may not have gotten you something."
"What?"
"Check your front door."
Emily hesitated before pulling herself up and walking toward the door. As soon as she opened it, her eyes widened at the sight of a carefully wrapped box. She picked it up, taking it inside before peeling back the lid.
Inside was the most beautiful baby blue dress she had ever seen.
"Kia…" she breathed, running her fingers over the fabric.
"Do you like it?" Kia asked, a little too innocent.
"I… I love it."
Kia smiled. "Good. Now, stop overthinking and let yourself enjoy this."
———
**Ryan's POV**
Ryan leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled beneath his chin as he reviewed the last-minute details of the evening. He had spared no expense. The entire restaurant was his for the night—no other patrons, no unexpected triggers. Just him and Emily, in a carefully controlled environment.
He had even selected the dress himself, knowing exactly how the soft baby blue would complement her golden caramel skin tone.
Of course, she wouldn't know it was from him. Kia had ensured that.
A slow, satisfied smirk played on his lips.
Tonight had to be perfect.
Tonight, he would make sure Emily saw that she belonged to him.