From Heartbreak to High Stakes: The Night I Caught My Patient Standing (5 of 5)

Ryan laid out every forged contract, every stolen deal. The board’s vote was swift. Eric was gone.

Laura Langley’s voice was a hiss. “You have no idea who you’re up against.”

Ryan’s gaze didn’t waver. “I know exactly who I’m up against. And this woman—” he nodded at me “—is the reason I’m standing here.”

A Different Kind of Beginning

The house didn’t feel cold anymore. We cooked. We laughed. One evening, he handed me a sapphire ring.

“I don’t need saving,” he said. “I just want you beside me.”

I slipped it on. “I’m not saying yes. But I’m not saying no.”

We’d both been left behind. But now, we were standing—together.