Sophia's heart raced as Lyrien approached her, his strange yet captivating presence making her feel seen and understood. But, just as they began to connect, a familiar voice echoed through the station's corridors.
"Sophia, we need to talk."
Dr. Ryan Thompson, her ex-boyfriend and former research partner, stood before her, his piercing gaze a stark contrast to Lyrien's gentle eyes. Ryan's jealousy simmered beneath the surface, his possessiveness a trait Sophia had hoped to escape.
"What do you want, Ryan?" Sophia asked, her tone firm but laced with a hint of vulnerability.
"I see you're still chasing the unknown, Sophia," Ryan sneered, his eyes flicking to Lyrien. "But you'll never find what you're looking for with...this...alien."
Lyrien's eyes narrowed, his antennae twitching with a subtle warning. Sophia knew she had to navigate this delicate situation carefully, or risk losing the chance at a new love, and potentially, her very own happiness.