Ryan’s POV
Vanessa stepped out of the shadows, knife in hand, her eyes locked on me. Her presence alone made my blood boil.
“You think you can just run, Ryan?” she sneered. “You really think I’d let you walk away this time?”
“I didn’t expect to see you again,” I said, keeping my voice calm, even as my fist tightened around my knife. “But here you are.”
She laughed, the sound sharp and mocking. “Always so cocky. Always so sure you can handle me.”
I took a step forward. “I can.”
She lunged. Knife aimed at my shoulder. I dodged, letting her momentum carry her past me. I countered immediately, slashing low to force her back.
“You still think you’re untouchable,” she hissed, spinning to strike again.
“I protect what’s mine,” I growled.
Vanessa’s lips curved into a cold, teasing smile.
