~~~Freya~~~

The next day arrived faster than I expected. I stepped out of the sleek black car with Ryder’s hand firmly holding mine, his grip warm and possessive. Devon and Hefty bodyguards immediately surrounded us, creating a protective wall as bright camera flashes exploded from every direction. Paparazzi shouted questions, their voices overlapping in a chaotic frenzy.

I kept my head slightly down, heart racing, but Ryder didn’t even flinch. He simply pulled me closer, his expression cold and detached as we walked toward the entrance of the luxurious waterfront mansion.

You must be wondering what we’re doing here, right? A nervous but excited flutter in my stomach. Ryder had...