Crash into love

Ryder's daughter?

Suddenly Ryder's phone buzzed with a notification about flight.

He checked his watch.
"Flight's delayed by four hours. We have time to review the itinerary and discuss key points."

Anya nodded, relieved.
"Good, I was worried we'd be rushed."

Ryder gestured to the living room.
"Let's sit and go over the details. Tomorrow's meeting is crucial."

As they settled in, Ryder handed Anya a cup of coffee.

"Thank you," she said, their fingers touching briefly.

Anya sipped her coffee, focusing on the documents.

Ryder began explaining the meeting's objectives.
"Key stakeholders will be present. We need to secure partnerships and finalize deals."

Anya listened intently.
"What's the main agenda for tomorrow's meeting?"

Ryder leaned forward.
We're discussing a potential merger. The other party is interested, but we need to negotiate terms."

Anya nodded.
"I've reviewed the files. What's our leverage?"

Ryder smiled.
"Your quick grasp of the situation impresses me, Anya."

Their eyes met.
For a moment, Anya felt a connection beyond the professional.

Just as Ryder was about to respond to Anya's question, the doorbell rang.

Ryder's expression changed, and he stood up.
"Excuse me for a moment."

He walked to the entrance, revealing his mother, elegantly dressed, holding a beautiful baby girl.

"Ryder, darling!" His mother said, "I brought Sophia by for a visit."

The baby girl, with bright blue eyes and curly brown hair, reached out.

"Papa!" Sophia squealed, throwing her arms around Ryder's neck.

Ryder's face softened, and he hugged Sophia tightly.

Anya's eyes widened in surprise.
She hadn't expected Ryder to be a father.

Ryder's mother smiled.
"Anya, this is Sophia, Ryder's daughter. Say hello."

Anya's heart melted.
"Hello, Sophia. You're adorable."

Sophia giggled.

Ryder's expression turned tender.

"Sophia's mother passed away a year ago," he explained. "My mother helps care for her."

Anya's understanding gaze met Ryder's.
"I'm so sorry," she said." You're doing a great job with Sophia."

Ryder's eyes lingered on Anya's.
"Thank you," he said, his voice low.

The atmosphere shifted, and Anya saw a new side of Ryder.

Ryder's mother, sat beside Anya on the couch, Sophia playing at their feet.

"Anya, dear, tell me about yourself," Mrs. Ryder said, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "What do you like to do in your free time?"

Anya smiled.
"I enjoy reading, hiking, and spending time with friends."

Mrs. Ryder nodded.
"And what about relationships? Have you had any serious ones?"

Anya hesitated.
" To be honest, I've never really dated."

Mrs. Ryder's eyebrows rose.
"Never dated? That's remarkable. You're beautiful and intelligent. What's held you back?

Anya shrugged.
"I've focused on my education and career. Besides, I haven't met someone who's made me feel... different."

Mrs. Ryder's gaze turned thoughtful.
"I see. Ryder's had his share of relationships, but none have worked out. His ex, Victoria, was a piece of work."

Anya's curiosity piqued.
"What happened?"

Mrs. Ryder leaned in.
"Victoria was more interested in Ryder's wealth and status than in him or Sophia. He deserves someone genuine."

Anya listened intently.

Mrs. Ryder's eyes locked onto hers.
"Anya, I think you might be just what Ryder needs. You're kind, intelligent, and uninterested in his wealth."

Anya's cheeks flushed.
"I'm just here to assist Ryder with work, Mrs. Ryder."

Mrs. Ryder smiled knowingly.
"We'll see about that , dear."