Crash into love

The tension

As they walked towards the elevator, Anya's voice cut through the silence.
"She's your ex, isn't she? The one your mother mentioned?"

Ryder's stride flattered. His eyes narrowed, annoyance flashing. "How did you...? My mother had no right."

Anya's gaze met his. "I couldn't help but notice the tension. Is there still something between you two?"

Ryder's jaw clenched. He halted, spinning Anya to face him. His hands grasped her shoulders, fingers digging deep. "Don't involve yourself in my personal life, Anya," he warned.

Anya's eyes widened. Trapped between Ryder's face and the wall. Their faces inches apart. The air thickened. Anya's voice remained steady. "I'm concerned about how it might affect our working relationship."

Ryder's eyes blazed. "Don't pretend to be concerned. You know nothing."

Anya's heart stung. But she wouldn't back down. Ryder's grip tightened. For a moment, they stood locked. The elevator doors slid open. Ryder released Anya. Stepping back. His chest heaved. " Let's keep this professional."

Anya's composure masked the hurt. " Naturally, Mr. Ryder." The distance between them grew. As they entered the elevator. Anya's thoughts swirled. Had she overstepped? Or uncovered something Ryder wanted hidden?

The elevator ride was oppressive, tension hanging heavy between them. As they reached their floor, Anya hastily opened her room door. She fled to the washroom, locking the door behind her.

Tears burst forth, streaming down her face. "Why am I hurting so much?" She whispered. She gazed at her reflection. "Do I... love him?"

The possibility terrified her. "No, no, no. I barely know him." But the ache in her chest wouldn't subside. Anya's words to herself grew desperate.

"Stop it, Anya. He's your boss. He told you to keep it professional." She splashed water on her face. Trying to wash away the emotions. But they lingered.

Memories of Ryder's touch. His intense gaze. The possessiveness in his voice. Anya's heart trembled. She couldn't afford to feel this way. Not now. Not ever.

With a deep breath, she dried her tears. Composing herself. She emerged from the washroom. Determined to maintain distance. To shield herself from Ryder's unintentional allure.

But as she glanced out the window. She saw Ryder standing on his balcony. Staring out at the city. His profile etched with tension.

Anya's resolve wavered. She dialed Emily's number, seeking distraction.
Voice mail.
"Hey, Em. Caught up in work. Call you later."

Undeterred, Anya scrolled through contacts. Vivan's name popped up. She grinned, dialing. Vivan answered on the first ring.

"Hey, beautiful what's up?"

Anya giggled. "Just needed some sanity."

Vivan launched into a ridiculous joke. Anya's laughter flowed freely.

Ryder, lost in thought on his balcony, noticed. The melodious sound carried across the divide. He turned, curiosity piqued. Who was Anya talking to?

Her animated expressions. Her unrestrained laughter. Ryder's gaze lingered. A pang of... something...formed. He shook his head. Focus.

But his attention drifted back. Anya's voice rose. Vivan's flirtatious tone echoed through the phone. Teasing, playful. Ryder's brow furrowed. Was Anya... flirting back?

Their conversation seemed carefree, easy. Unlike the tension interactions with Ryder.
Ryder's thoughts swirled. Who was this Vivan? Why did Anya's laughter sound so different?

As Anya continued talking. Ryder found himself listening. Unintentionally drawn in.

Vivan's voice turned serious. "How was your day, Anya?"

Anya summarised the meeting. Vivan listened attentively.

"Sounds intense. You handled it well,
I'm sure."

Anya smiled. "Thanks, Vivan. You're always a stress -reliever."

Vivan chuckled. "Anytime beautiful. Take care."

They bid each other goodbye. Anya hung up, feeling lighter. A knock on her door broke the silence.

"Anya?" Ryder's voice.

She opened the door. Ryder stood, looking handsome.
"Dinner?" He asked.

Anya shook her head. "No appetite for now."

Ryder raised an eyebrow. "Room service?"

I'll order when I need." Anya replied.

Ryder nodded. "Alright. Goodnight."

"Goodnight," Anya echoed.

The door closed. Ryder's thoughts lingered. Anya's tone seemed distant. Was she still upset? He headed back to his room. Ordering dinner for himself.

His mind drifted to their earlier tension. And the mysterious phone call. Who was Vivan? Why did Anya laugh so freely? Ryder shook his head. Focus on work. But his thoughts betrayed him.