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I’m a patient man, but when I set my sights on winning, I win. Every time. That's why I am the best.
Although I wasn't ready to act on my feelings before, the truth is undeniable. I love her and want to spend the rest of my life with her.
Now is the time to act.
It’s time to claim what's mine.
Chapter10
Bells
Sabine
Ryland left the dining room ages ago. I've been sitting here for what feels like hours, my phone ringing out to Ryland's voicemail each time I call. I'm done waiting—it's time to do something.
Although I don’t have a room key, I figure Ryland needs to return to the room to collect his things, and I’ll meet him there.
I head to the reception desk, eyes open and looking for Ryland, but I can't see him anywhere. Moments later, card in pocket, I return to our room and push the door open, hoping against hope that he'll be here. He isn’t.
I’m alone with my thoughts, and all I can do is ruminate on the situation. Anxiety builds like a knot in my stomach.
Ryland said he'd take care of things with my brother, and I believe him. They need to deal with their relationship, but regardless of what they discuss, I need to explain the situation to Zane from my perspective.
I have my responsibilities too. I care about my business and will repay every cent I borrowed from Zane. If my business fails, so be it. I’ll pivot or come up with a new plan.
There are other ways to make money. Losing Ryland would hurt too much, and nothing is worth the sacrifice.
Will my brother give me crap when he finds out how I feel about Ryland? Will Zane get territorial and make out like I need to get a life and stop muscling in on his?
Maybe he’ll resent me and think I’m throwing myself at his best friend. It isn’t like that. I’ve always loved Ryland from afar, and my dreams are close to coming true.
How can I explain how I feel when I don’t understand it myself? I feel comfortable around Ryland, and our connection goes far beyond anything I can put into words.
Both he and Zane share certain protective traits, and that's why spending time with him is so calming. I only hope our relationship isn't the end of their friendship.
I won't stop loving Ryland, but I don't want to lose Zane. It's also important to me that Ryland doesn't lose his best friend.
Ryland enters the room, frustration radiating from his red face. He slams the door, causing me to jolt back in surprise.
“Thank fuck you’re here. I looked everywhere and couldn’t find you.” His voice booms in the small space.
“Are you okay?” I ask cautiously, my voice barely a whisper.
His gaze snaps to me, and he growls. “Where did you go?”
It isn’t like Ryland to lose it like this. He’s acting out of character, but I don’t know why.
“I could ask you the same thing!” I point my finger at him. Not that it helps because he towers over me.
He sighs heavily and takes a step closer. “I missed you so damn much,” he adds in a softer, more vulnerable tone.
“We weren’t apart for long.” I search his face anxiously for answers. Why is he acting this way? “You still haven't told me where you were.”
Ignoring my question, Ryland brushes his fingers against my cheek, lifting my chin to meet his gaze. My pulse races.
He drops his mouth to mine in a passionate kiss, only stopping to rain kisses down my jaw and neck. He scoops me into his strong arms and carries me to bed.
But as soon as he lets go, I jump off the bed and confront him, both hands on my hips.
