Crash into love

Ryder's awakening feelings

Anya's cheeks flushed.
"Sorry to trouble you, Mr Ryder."

Ryder's expression softened.
"No trouble at all, Anya. You're hardly a burden."
He smiled.
"You're surprisingly light weight."

Anya's eyes met his, a hint of amusement.
"I'll take that as a compliment."

Ryder chuckled.
"Meant as one."

Their gazes lingered, the air thickening with unspoken tension.

Anya broke the silence.
"I should sit up."

Ryder's arm remained around her.
"Stay. We'll be landing soon."

Anya hesitated, then settled back into the warmth of his shoulder.

The jet's intercom crackled.
"Prepare for descent."
Ryder's voice whispered.
"Looks like our destination awaits."

Anya's heart skipped a beat.
What lay ahead?

After arriving at the hotel, Ryder and Anya stepped into the sleek, modern lobby.
The receptionist greeted them warmly.
"Welcome, Mr. Ryder and Miss Anya. Your rooms are ready."

Ryder nodded.
"Thank you. We'll freshen up and meet in my room to review the meeting details."

Anya nodded, taking her key card.

Their rooms were adjacent, separated by a connecting door.

Ryder handed her a folder.
"Meeting documents. Review them quickly."

Anya took the folder.
I'll be ready soon."

Ryder smiled.
"Take your time. I'll order room service."

Anya entered her room, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. She quickly showered and changed into a crisp business suit.

As she reviewed the documents, her mind raced with strategic and questions.
A knock on the connecting door broke her concentration.

"Anya, ready?" Ryder's voice called out.

Anya took a deep breath.
"Yes, coming."

She opened the door, finding Ryder in his room, looking impeccable in his tailored suit.

"Perfect timing," he said, gesturing to the room service spread.

Anya's stomach fluttered.

Over dinner, Ryder and Anya dissected the meeting's key points, their discussion flowing effortlessly.

As they ate, Ryder found himself stealing glances at Anya.
Her eyes sparkled when she explained a particularly complex concept. Her lips curved into a subtle smile when he praised her insight.
Ryder's gaze lingered on her face, noticing the faint flush on her cheeks. He sensed a vulnerability beneath her poised exterior.

Anya took, felt Ryder's gaze. She tried to focus on the discussion, but her awareness of him grew.
The way he listened intently, his eyes locked onto hers. The way his smile creased his face, warm and genuine.

As they finished dinner, Ryder leaned back in his chair.

Anya's eyes met his, and for a moment, they just looked at each other.

Ryder's thoughts whispered: "I think I'm getting to her." He noticed the faint flutter of her eyelids, the softening of her expression.

Anya's pulse quickened. She felt seen, understood.

The air between them vibrated with unspoken tension.

Ryder broke the silence.
"Shall we review the presentation one  last time?"

Anya nodded, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Yes, of course."

As they delved back into work, Ryder's mind lingered on the connection he sensed. Was he reading too much into it? Or was Anya truly responding to him?