"Because you needed help. And because it's the right thing to do," I said, hoping to convey sincerity and compassion through my words. Riley looked at me, her eyes clouded with confusion.
She didn't respond immediately, just crossed her arms and furrowed her brow. I could see the wheels turning in her head, and it made me uneasy. Did she recognize me? Was she suprised by what I just said or was she just suspicious.
Finally, she broke the silence. "Well, I should go back to my hotel. It's going to be night soon." She turned abruptly and walked away, leaving me standing there, watching her retreating figure.
I took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. Riley's attitude was puzzling. She seemed conflicted, her behavior oscillating between distant and oddly personal. Did she see through my disguise? Was she just suspicious, or was there something more? I needed to figure out what she was thinking.
