Page 59 of The Most Perfect Wrong

“Oh!” I say laughing. “You just confessed to five orgasms. I think that speaks for itself.”

“Well, I’ve always orgasmed easily, so don’t let it go to your head.”

“Still… five?” I shake my head in disbelief.

I watch her for a moment longer, not wanting the night to end, but knowing we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow. We’ve settled into something comfortable, and part of me wants to stay right here, keep talking. But we both know where this is headed if we keep it up, and it’s probably not the best idea.

“We should probably head upstairs,” I say reluctantly. “Looks like they’re closing up, plus we have a busy day tomorrow.”

“You’re probably right.” She slides out of the stool, turning to wait for me as I close our tab.

We walk back to our rooms in a comfortable silence, side by side. And for the first time since the Christmas party, it doesn’t feel like we’re at war.

When we get to her door, she turns to me. “Thanks for talking to me, Ryan.”

I don’t bother hiding the seriousness in my voice. “Anytime. Just… think about what you want. And if you need to talk, you know where to find me.”

She swallows, her eyes flicking to my lips for a split second. I could kiss her right now, pull her into my room—pick up where we left off at the pool. But I don’t. Instead, I pull her in for a hug. She wraps her arms tightly around my waist, and I grin. We’ve broken past the angry barriers she put up. We’re friends again—though I want so much more. I want her so badly it hurts.

When she steps back, she lingers, staring at my mouth. “Good night, Ryan.” She slips into her room without another word.

Chapter 19

COOPER

“Are you going home for the holidays?” I ask, kicking back the last drop of wine from my plastic cup.

“Yeah, but not until Christmas Eve,” Ryan replies. “What about you? You spending Christmas with your dad or your mom?”

“My dad. I spent last Christmas with my mom, so I’m going to Newport this year.” I smile. “I’m excited to spend time with my sister. I haven't seen her since…” I pause, looking at him. “Well, since… you know, the last time I was in Newport.”

The plane hits turbulence, and I instinctively grip Ryan’s thigh, my whole body tensing as I squeeze my eyes shut. “Shit,” I whisper.

Realizing my hand’s on him, I start to pull back, but his hand covers mine, weaving our fingers together. His thumb brushes gently along my skin, each stroke sending a fire through my veins, igniting something deep within my core.

“You okay?” Ryan’s eyes meet mine with a tenderness that makes me melt.

I take a deep breath, trying to focus. “Yeah, I’m okay.” I say, forcing a small smile. “I just… hate flying. Turbulence freaks me out.”

He gives my hand a squeeze before letting go. “Well, I’m right here if you need me.”

“Thanks… Are you spending time with your sisters while you’re in Arizona?” I ask, eager to keep the conversation going.

“Yeah, for the holiday stuff. The whole family will be at my parents’ place on Christmas Day—my sisters, their families… and me, alone, for the first time in eleven years.”

It’s me that reaches for his hand this time. I place mine on top of his, resting on his leg. “I’m so sorry, Ryan.” I furrow my brows. “I can’t imagine what you’re going through.” And I mean it. Ryan’s leaving someone he actually gets along with, someone he’s loved for so long. Plus, I know he’s worried sick about Beth.

“Thanks. I appreciate that.” His gaze holds mine, and for a moment, I forget that I’m engaged—that my fiancé is waiting for me at home. It’s just me and Ryan, like we’re a team. He breaks the moment, clearing his throat. “Is your dad bringing anyone new this year?”

I laugh. “God, I hope not. Not that I know of, but a lot can happen in a week with my dad.”

“And what about Brad? Where does he fit into your holiday plans? Is he going to Newport with you?”

The discomfort of his question lingers between us, and I break our gaze, looking down at my hands. “Yeah. Brad’s coming to Newport. He has a work trip right before Christmas, so he won’t come until Christmas Eve. But we’ll do Christmas morning with my dad. Casey and her family will come over for brunch and presents around noon.” I can feel his eyes on me, daring me to look at him, so I do. “It should be fun.” I add, forcing a smile.

“That's great,” he says, though his sincerity falls flat.

I sigh loudly. “Look, Ryan, I know I said things last night—things I probably shouldn’t have. But I had that edible, and those shots… I was feeling vulnerable and on edge from my argument with Brad… and my day with you.”

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