UNRAVELING AMAYA.

12

Cordelia's house buzzed with energy as the bridesmaids and groomsmen gathered for the pre-Hawaii planning session. The living room was filled with chattering and excitement—the complete opposite of my inner turmoil. I hadn't spoken to Ryan in three days and it was taking its toll on me.

Savannah, Cordelia's energetic cousin, and Taylor, her calm and collected gym partner, were both there. They were strangers to me, but their enthusiasm for the upcoming trip was kind of infectious.

"Okay, everyone," Cordelia called out, clapping her hands to get our attention. "Let's go over the itinerary for the trip and the details for the wedding rehearsal in Hawaii."

We all gathered around the large dining table, where Cordelia had spread out a stack of brochures and a detailed schedule. Ivan was busy handing out shots and snacks, trying to keep the mood light and fun.

"So, we have a lot of exciting activities planned," Cordelia began, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "First, we'll kick off the trip with a welcome dinner on the beach. Then we have snorkeling, a luau night, spa day and a guys' day out."

Taylor, who was seated next to me, leaned in. "This is going to be so much fun. I've always wanted to try snorkeling!"

"Me too," I replied, trying to match her enthusiasm. "It sounds cool."

Savannah, who was on the other side of the table, smiled at Ryan. "And the luau night will be so cute. I can't wait to see everybody all dressed up. Maybe we can sneak off for a dance, Ryan," she added with a playful wink.

I felt a twinge of jealousy but kept my expression neutral. Ryan glanced at me briefly before responding to Taylor with a half hearted chuckle. "Yeah."

As the planning continued, I couldn't help but steal glances at Ryan, who seemed to be engrossed in Savannah's flirtatious banter. He was polite, but his eyes occasionally flicked over to me, a hint of concern in them.

Cordelia continued, "Remember, the wedding rehearsal is the day before the wedding, so everyone needs to be there and ready. It's going to be a busy few days, but it'll be worth it."

Everyone nodded in agreement, the excitement for the trip palpable. I tried to focus on the details and immerse myself in the planning, but my thoughts kept drifting back to Ryan and our last conversation.

After we finished going over the itinerary, Cordelia suggested a quick break. People dispersed around the room, chatting in small groups. I took a deep breath and decided it was time to face Ryan.

I found him in the kitchen, pouring himself a glass of water. He looked up as I approached, his expression guarded.

"Ryan," I said softly, "can we talk?"

He nodded, his eyes searching mine. "Sure."

We stepped outside to the back patio, where the evening air was cool and refreshing. The sound of laughter from inside the house provided a comforting backdrop.

"About the other night," I began, unsure of how to express my feelings. "I didn't mean to make it seem like I'm still hung up on Jared. It's just that... he was a big part of my past, and I just needed closure."

Ryan sighed, leaning against the railing. "I get it, Amaya. I really do. But I don't want to be in the middle of nothing; niggas don't want closure. It's just an excuse to see if it's still space left for them."

"You're right," I admitted, my voice low.

He reached out and grabbed my waist, his touch sending a shiver down my spine. "I care about you, Amaya. I'm real and so are my feelings."