Within the quiet corridors of Emily's mind, the alters congregated, each observing her date with Ryan with varying levels of curiosity and concern. Mira was wary, Ivy remained silent, and even Demi—the protector—watched with narrowed eyes.
*"This is too perfect,"* Remy mused, his logical tone cutting through the murmurs. *"He's too calculated."*
*"But he's careful,"* Luna countered. *"He hasn't pushed her boundaries."*
Despite their ongoing discussions, Emily remained present, engaged in the moment. She could feel them lingering, feel their watchful presence, but for once, they allowed her to just exist in the moment.
Ryan, on the other hand, was fully aware of how fragile the balance was. He knew Emily could switch at any moment, knew that the wrong move could startle her or—worse—push her away. And so, he maintained his unreadable demeanor, his expression perfectly poised, giving nothing away.
The evening had gone better than he anticipated, and as they reached the end of their time together, Ryan turned to Emily. Slowly, gently, he cupped her face in his hands, his thumb brushing over her cheek before he pressed a lingering kiss to her forehead.
The touch was soft, almost reverent.
Emily's breath hitched, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she simply looked up at him, searching his face for something—an answer, reassurance, maybe even a warning. But Ryan's expression remained calm, his voice smooth as he whispered, "Miko and Mae Mae will take you home safely."
Emily gave a small nod, her mind still reeling from the warmth of his touch.
As she was escorted to the waiting car, Kia sat anxiously by her phone, waiting for the inevitable call. She needed to know everything—every word, every moment. Because while Emily was caught up in the whirlwind of something new, Kia couldn't shake the feeling that Ryan was something else entirely.
Something dangerous.