Clara Bennett
“I need a minute,” I whispered, pulling back from Ryder’s arms. My voice sounded small and raw. “I just… I want to freshen up. Everything feels so heavy right now.”
Ryder searched my face for a second, his eyes full of understanding. Just a while ago, he was just my boss and now, he was listening to my heart's cry. How could anyone disappoint such a pure heart? No way.
Suddenly, I felt so shamed just thinking about it. I lowered my head, feeling my cheeks flash pink.
He leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to my forehead, his lips lingering there for a moment. “Take all the time you need, Clara. I’ll be right out here if you want me.”
I nodded and slipped out of his hold, my legs still shaky as I walked toward the bathroom. I heard his footsteps outside, as if he was pacin
