“You don’t need to thank me. It’s a pleasure to be the person you want to rely on.”

His gaze reminded her of the night, gentle and deep.

“I want to be the first person you think of when you find yourself in danger and in need of help.”

“...”

Madeline had no idea how to reply, but the look in his eyes was sincere.

It was evident that his feelings for her were no longer as simple as him ‘fancying’ her.

Still, Madeline did not find Ryan suitable for herself. She had three kids, was married twice, and got divorced twice.

As if sensing the awkwardness Madeline felt, Ryan smiled and changed the subject.

“Let’s go eat dinner. I’ve booked a place.”

Madeline nodded, internally thanking Ryan for realizing and changing the subject.

On the other end, Lana threw her phone with the newly acquired picture at Naomi.

A magnified image of Ryan holding a frightened Madeline just moments ago appeared before Naomi’s eyes.

She remembered how much she wanted to kill this idiot when Jeremy had alm