Standing behind Ryan, I felt an inexplicable sense of safety, like no one in the world could harm me as long as he was there.
His broad shoulders and firm stance were a protective shield I hadn’t known I needed.
My heart pounded in my chest, the adrenaline from the encounter with Devon still coursing through my veins. I clenched my fists, trying to steady myself, but I couldn’t help but think back to the moment before Ryan arrived.
If he hadn’t shown up, what would I have done? My plan was hardly heroic—kick Devon where it hurts and run like hell.
I bit my lip at the thought, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and pride for even considering such a move.
“Funny thing,” I muttered, breaking the silence between us. “Before you showed up, I was ready to kick him in the crotch and m
