The snow outside Silver Ridge had softened into a thin blanket, glittering under the glow of the streetlights. Ethan and Riley walked side by side down a quieter street after running into each other at the diner. Neither of them had planned it, yet neither of them wanted to part ways just yet.
Ethan stuffed his hands into his jacket pockets, trying to keep his nerves steady. “You really didn’t have to walk with me.
Riley smirked, tugging her leather jacket tighter. “Please, if anything happens, you’re the one who needs me. This town doesn’t scare me, but you? You stand out like a neon sign.
He chuckled under his breath. “You make me sound helpless.
“You kind of are.” She glanced at him sideways, her grin softening. “But in a good way.
That look made his chest feel unsteady. He tried t
