Deep in concentration, Richard's brow furrowed sharply as the door creaked open. He snapped, "Didn't I say not to disturb me? Can't you follow instructions? Get out!"
"Richard."
Just as his anger reached a boiling point, a soft, familiar voice drifted in from the doorway, carrying an air of gentle intimacy.
The woman standing there wore an elegant evening gown, her wavy hair cascading over her shoulders. Her eyes, glistening like a serene lake, were locked on Richard, with a faint shimmer of tears adding a note of vulnerability.
Richard froze, startled by the voice that was both achingly familiar and tinged with grievance. His head shot up abruptly, and his gaze landed on Ruby standing before him.
The figure he had buried deep in his memories was suddenly here, as real as the day
