While waiting, Thea remained still in the car, while Ryder's eyes strayed back to his phone, his thumb browsing through the content.
"Ryder, you can go ahead," Thea said in a hushed tone. "The cab will arrive soon." Her words were a gentle excuse, allowing him to leave without feeling obligated to wait.
He lifted his gaze, and their eyes locked. "I'm in no hurry." Ryder said with a slight smile. "I can wait for the cab to arrive. It won't put me behind schedule." His words implied that he had grasped the underlying reason for her comment.
Thea didn't respond to his comment, instead pointing out the arrival of the cab. "There, the cab is here."
Ryder nodded, saying simply, "Okay."
As Thea got out of the car, she turned to him with a polite smile. "Thanks for the ride, Ryder. Good night."
Ryder returned the courtesy, his voice low and even. "Good night."
