Ethan sat on the edge of the plush hotel bed, his phone still in his hand after sending the text.
The city lights outside the large window painted the room in a dim glow, their neon reflections flickering across the sleek, modern decor.
The hotel was high-end, but not overly extravagant — just enough to provide the comfort and privacy he needed for the night.
He had no intention of staying at Riley's parents' place, no matter how grateful they were. It wasn't about them, really.
He just wasn't the type to settle into someone else's home, not when there were too many unspoken expectations, too many polite formalities to navigate. They needed space, and so did he.
A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. He turned his head, already knowing who it was.
"Come in," he called, slipping his phone onto the nightstand.
The door pushed open, and Riley stepped inside, slightly out of breath, her cheeks flushed.
