Love Rivals: The Day I Saw Your Tears

14. Ignorance Is Bliss?

These days, I usually asked someone else to deliver coffee to the hospital. I wasn't ready to bump into Ryan again, not after everything. But today, Amreesh insisted I make the delivery myself. Reluctantly, I agreed, moving through the halls as quietly as possible, hoping to stay invisible.

I handed the bill over at the counter and, just as I turned around, Ryan walked past me. My heart skipped a beat, but he didn't even look in my direction. He acted like I wasn't even there, as if I were just another stranger in the hallway. That hurt more than I wanted to admit. But I mirrored his indifference, pretending not to notice him either.

As I made my way out, lost in my thoughts, I stumbled near the door. Before I could hit the ground, a strong hand caught mine, steadying me. The moment our skin touched, a familiar surge of electricity ran through me, sending shivers up my spine. My heart started racing uncontrollably.

I turned around, ready to thank him but before I could get the words out, his phone rang, and without a word, Ryan let go of my hand and walked away to take the call.

As he left, I caught a glimpse of his palm-the faint scar still there which was made by the divider.

After leaving the hospital, I headed straight to the restaurant where Krystal had asked me to come urgently. As soon as I entered, I spotted her sitting at a table near the window. I made my way over, still catching my breath from the rush.

"What's the matter?" I asked, almost gasping for air.

Krystal glanced up, her expression serious but calm. She first turned to the waiter to place our orders before finally responding. "I need your help with something."

"What kind of help?" I inquired, bracing myself for whatever she was about to throw at me.

As the waiter set our drinks on the table, she took a leisurely sip of her orange marmalade before explaining, "Our school is organizing a small field trip in two days. We're in need of a photographer for the school magazine, and we're running short."

I looked at her, puzzled. "And how does that involve me?"

She leaned forward, her eyes glinting with a mix of urgency and hope. "You mentioned before that one of your classmates is a photographer now. Could you ask him if he's available? The school will pay him for his work."

I let out a deep sigh, feeling overwhelmed. "Why do you always have to get me tangled up in these things?" I said, my frustration clear. "It's already difficult enough dealing with them. And now you're asking me to-" I paused, letting out another long sigh, "-to reach out and ask for help."

She gave me a pleading look, clearly hoping I'd come through. Her eyes softened, making it hard for me to refuse. Reluctantly, I agreed.

The next day, I called Vicky and asked if we could meet up. There was a slight pause before he agreed, albeit reluctantly, suggesting we meet at his studio. He quickly texted me the address.

I grabbed a cozy sweatshirt and slipped into my favorite jeans. Staring at my reflection, I debated between leaving my hair down or pulling it into a ponytail. Ultimately, I went with the ponytail, figuring it would give off a neat, casual vibe. A quick swipe of lip gloss for a hint of polish, and I grabbed my purse.
With one last glance in the mirror, I headed out.

When I arrived at the studio, I pushed open the door, causing the little bells above to jingle softly.

"Come in," Vicky's voice called out from behind the counter. He was busy, hunched over a camera, carefully adjusting its settings. The studio itself was charmingly organized, with neat shelves and stylish décor that spoke of his professional flair.

As I stepped inside, I noticed him casting quick glances in my direction, as though he was waiting for me to break the silence. I took a deep breath.

I asked, "Are you busy?"

He barely glanced up from his work and said, "Not really."

I hesitated, looking around at the neatly organized studio before continuing, "Would you mind if I asked you for a favor?"

He glanced at me again and said, "Go ahead."