Ethan wasn't just messing around. He wasn't just playing some mind game. He meant it.
Riley felt something inside her crack.
He realized he likes her more?
Riley's breath came out in short, ragged bursts. A sharp, bitter laugh bubbled up in her throat, but it came out strangled.
Is he kidding me?
Then what was she?
Throughout college, she had been by his side. And now she had come for him. She had supported him, worked for him, sacrificed for him. She had told herself she didn't need a label, that it was fine as long as they were together in some way.
But now?
Now, it was Celeste he wanted?
Now, after everything, she wasn't even in the running?
The realization sank in slowly—deep, gut-wrenching, and unbearable.
First, Alexander had been stolen from her.
And now Ethan.
Her hands clenched into fists, nails digging into her palms so hard it hurt.
Something inside her broke completely.
