Maya ~_< My phone’s been blowing up for the past hour, and I already know it’s Belinda texting—probably wondering why I’ve gone MIA after roping her into planning a surprise for Ryder. Why did I think one round would be under thirty minutes and I’d still have the energy to function? I can’t even move, and Ryder’s in the kitchen whipping up a snack for us like he didn’t just break my joints. I’m not complaining at all. One of my favorite things about being with Ryder—besides how f*****g good the s*x is—has to be the aftercare. He’s so soft with me. It’s like he shifts into a whole new person after he’s emptied himself. And honestly? I like how that feels. “Here’s your meal, Your Highness,” he says, handing over a bowl of steaming noodles, and I swear I almost drool at the sight.

