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Part 36 – The Apology
Next day, Anna found Ryan sitting quietly under a tree, a faint bruise still visible near his lip. He looked up as she approached, his eyes cautious.
"Ryan…" Anna said softly, her hands twisting nervously. "I'm really sorry about yesterday. Ethan… he just—"
Ryan cut her off with a small, bitter smile. "He doesn't like people near you. That much is clear."
Anna lowered her gaze. "He overreacted. It was just a hug… but I should've stopped him from hurting you. I feel awful."
Ryan sighed, shaking his head. "It's not your fault, Anna. But…" he leaned in a little, lowering his voice, "if he really loved you, he wouldn't treat you like property."
Those words hit her harder than she expected. She forced a smile, but inside, something twisted. She quickly changed the subject, not wanting to think too deeply.
"I promise, I'll make it up to you," she said.
Ryan chuckled softly, trying to lighten the mood. "You can make it up by laughing at my stupid jokes again. But maybe… no hugs for now, okay?"
Anna laughed lightly, nodding. "Deal."
As she turned to leave, Ethan was already standing in the distance, his sharp eyes fixed on them. He didn't say a word—just gave Ryan a cold, warning look before walking away with Anna.
On the way, Ethan held her hand tightly, his grip possessive. "Don't waste your apologies on him," he muttered. "He doesn't deserve it."
Anna stayed quiet, her heart heavy. Somewhere deep inside, Ryan's words echoed—if he really loved you, he wouldn't treat you like property.
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