Chapter 19

"Hi," he greeted the woman across from him, his voice gentle.

My eyes widened in surprise as I registered who was speaking to me.

"Ryder!" I exclaimed, disbelief coloring my voice.

“Come back home, Nova,” Ryder pleaded, his gaze pleading as he looked at me.

I shook my head. “I don't want to go home right now,” I replied, my tone firm.

“Please? Our home feels different without you," he implored, desperation evident in his voice.

"But you brought another woman to replace me, so I don't think I am needed there anymore," I stated calmly, trying to maintain composure despite the emotions swirling inside me.

Ryder observed my calm demeanor, unable to discern my true feelings from my expression.

"You are furious at me," he deduced, his voice tinged with regret.

“I really don't want to say that,” I admitted, my words carrying a weight of resignation.

Ryder had anticipated my stubbornness, knowing it wouldn't be easy to