Becoming strangers again (Lily and Ryan)

Chapter 32

Chapter 32 RYAN “Are we really leaving?” Angelo’s eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and disbelief, his voice laced with bewilderment. Despite his attempts to conce Without acknowledging his questions, I continued to pack my belongings into the bag, determined to complete the task efficiently. The pilot departs in thr minute items to collect, now’s the time,” Pausing by the door, Angelo’s playful demeanor gradually faded, replaced by a more serious expression. “Seriously, did something happen?” Frustration seeped into my actions as I forcefully shoved a shirt into the box, causing a dull thud. “Taven’t we spent enough time here!” I countered, my a He held his gaze on me for a fleeting moment, then delivered a crisp nod before gracefully exiting the room. With each garment I crammed into my suitc Having packed what was necessary, I took a brief shower and changed into attire suitable for traveling, before walking out of my room. to reach my car. A Seated comfortably in the back, I retrieved my phone and dialed Lily’s number. Angelo assumed his position in the driver’s seat, stealing a glance at me view mirror before setting the vehicle in motion Eventually, Lily answered the call. “Hey, I exhaled softly, mindful not to utter anything that might unsettle her. “How are you?” My words were measured, aimed at maintaining a sense of ease in our conversation. “I’m fine.” She replied. “Is everything okay?” I cleared my throat, still trying not dwell on the fact that there is an engagement ring on her finger. “I’m leaving Canada as we speak,” I informed her, “and She fell silent for a while. “Are you leaving because of what I said the last time?” She asked and I smiled at the fact that even though she is trying to den “I didn’t call you for you to apologize Lily, it’s fine.” I can’t eat my cake and have it. I had my time with her and I ruined it, so I should let her have her own She sighed. “I know Ryan, I figured it out the day I walked out of our marriage.” I heard something beep in the background. “I have to go Ryan, duty calls and please do not return, not unless it is very important.” She disconnected the call and I winced at her last statement. She could have avoided saying that, but I guess she just wanted to be brutal. 1 Throughout the journey back to New York, I maintained a solemn demeanor, opting not to engage in conversation with anyone, including Angelo. Instead Upon our arrival, I saw to it that my suitcase was promptly dispatched to the manor before making an impromptu stop at the office. The sight of my unexp Immersing myself in the day’s workload served as a temporary distraction, allowing me to momentarily forget about the troubles of my personal life, particularly the lingerin Despite my best efforts to focus solely on work, my mind occasionally drifted back to the things that happened in Canada. Angelo, ever attentive, seemned to sense my sore mood, wise and afford me the peace and quiet I evidently sought. 11:39 AM Chapter 32 “Sir,” Angelo’s voice pierced through my weariness, bringing me back to the present moment. “We’ve arrived, sir.” Blinking away the haze of exhaustion, I found myself parked in the familiar confines of my driveway. Rubbing my eyes to shake off the fatigue, I seized m the living room. True to my preferences, the house enveloped me in silence, with the staff discreetly avoiding my path. I had made it abundantly clear that encountering u avoid, and they diligently honored my wishes. Ascending the stairs with a near– silent tread, I made my way to my room. Pushing the door open, I was greeted by an unwelcome sight that instantly dampened my spirits. Stephanie lay sprawled across my bed, her attire leaving little to the imagination as she delved into the pages of a book. The creak of the door opening e bed to close the distance between us, enfolding me in a warm embrace. “Nobody mentioned you were coming home.” As we parted, she leaned in for a ki*s, but I instinctively turned my head, offering only my cheek in response. Stephanie’s expression briefly registered a “You should have called,” she remarked, a note of mild reproach in her tone. “I would have loved to pick you up from the airport myself.” Stepping into the closet, I began the task of unbuttoning my shirt while Stephanie lingered in the doorway, her gaze. “What brings you to my house in my absence?” fixed upon me. Her brows furrowed in a slight frown. I came because I missed you and needed a reminder of you, she admitted. Pausing in my actions, I glanced at her reflection in the full– length mirror. “And what about my parents? Did you stay with them for over two weeks just because you missed me?” I couldn’t quite comprehend why s

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“I saw the news about you and Lily, and I became concerned, Ryan,” she explained, attempting to justify her unexpected presence. “My parents are disa at your My jaw tensed as I listened to her explanation. “Don’t,” I growled, my voice edged with frustration. “Don’t approach my parents at own convenience, Step laws, so you have no business with them.” In the mirror’s reflection, I caught sight of her fist clenching tightly. “What’s that supposed to mean, Ryan?” she retorted, her voice laced with hurt and fru Turning to face her fully, I interlocked my fingers and met her gaze, a sense of clarity dawning upon me. Lily’s words echoed in my mind, resonating with a truth I couldn’t deny. Considering bringing a child into this kind of relationship with Stephanie would be selfish. It would only subject that child to the anguish of a broken home, a pain I kne “This is over,” I declared, and she froze. I’m breaking up with you, Stephanie.”