Chapter 4

I held my cold phone tightly, listening to Ryan's voice on the other end.

Every word was honey-laced poison, gentle, but lethal.

I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and when I opened them again, my eyes were calm.

My voice carried just the right touch of vulnerability and reliance.

"Honey, you finally called," I said, my voice tinged with just the right amount of vulnerability.

Ryan let out a sigh of relief, his tone instantly lighter.

"What's wrong, honey? Did you miss me?" he asked, sounding playful.

"Mm."

"I did miss you, but I'm also feeling a little…