Avery's heart was heavy as she stood before Ryker , her eyes locked onto his . They had shared so much , their bond forged in the fire of adventure and danger .
But now , as she looked at Ryker , Avery knew that she had to let go . She was married to Julian , and she couldn't keep Ryker dangling in limbo .
" Ryker , I - - - " Avery's voice trailed off , unsure of how to begin .
Ryker's eyes narrowed , his jaw clenched . " You don't have to say it , Avery ," he said , his voice tight with emotion . " I know you're with Julian now ."
Avery nodded , feeling a pang of guilt . I'm sorry , Ryker . I never meant to hurt you ."
Ryker's expression softened , and he reached out to brush a strand of hair behind Avery's ear . " You didn't hurt me , Avery" he said . " You just moved on . And I'll do the same ."
Avery felt a lump form in her throat as she looked at Ryker . She knew that she would always care for him , but she also knew that she had made the right choice .
As Ryker turned to walk away , Avery called out to him . " Ryker wait ."
He turned back , his eyes questioning .
" Thank you ," Avery said , her voice sincere . " Thank you for being there for me when I needed you ."
Ryker's expression softened , and he nodded . " Anytime , Avery . Take care of yourself ."
And with that , Ryker walked away , leaving Avery to close the chapter on their relationship .
As she turned to Julian , Avery felt a sense of peace wash over her . She knew that she had made the right choice , and that she was exactly where she was meant to be .
Julian's eyes locked onto hers , and he smiled . " Hey ," he said , his voice low and husky .
Avery's heart skipped a beat as she smiled back at him . " Hey ," she replied .
As they stood there , wrapped in each others arms , Avery knew that she was ready to face whatever lay ahead . She was ready to build a life with Julian , to explore the depths of their love and their destiny .
And as they walked off into the sunset , Avery knew that she would never look back .
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