"Hi," he greeted the woman across from him, his voice gentle.

My eyes widened in surprise as I registered who was speaking to me.

"Ryder!" I exclaimed, disbelief coloring my voice.

“Come back home, Nova,” Ryder pleaded, his gaze pleading as he looked at me.

I shook my head. “I don't want to go home right now,” I replied, my tone firm.

“Please? Our home feels different without you," he implored, desperation evident in his voice.

"But you brought another woman to replace me, so I don't think I am needed there anymore," I stated calmly, trying to maintain composure despite the emotions swirling inside me.

Ryder observed my calm...