The morning sun filtered through the hospital room's blinds, casting soft golden rays on Serena's face. She blinked awake to find Ryan sitting in the chair by her bedside, his head tilted back, eyes closed in a light sleep. His jacket was draped neatly over the back of the chair, and his tie was loosened, giving him a casual, almost boyish look.
Serena's heart warmed at the sight. He must've stayed awake the whole night.
As if sensing her gaze, Ryan stirred and opened his eyes. A slow smile spread across his face when he saw her awake. "Good morning," he said, his voice soft but tinged with relief.
"Good morning," she replied, her voice still groggy.
"How are you feeling?" he asked, leaning forward, concern etched on his face.
"A bit sore, but much better," Serena admitted. "The headache's gone, at least."
Ryan nodded. "That's good to hear. The doctor said you'll be discharged today."
As if on cue, a nurse entered the room with discharge papers and instructions for Serena's care. After a few formalities and reminders to rest, Serena was free to leave.
Ryan insisted on helping her. He gathered her things, supporting her gently as they made their way out of the hospital. The ride to her apartment was quiet, comfortable, with Serena occasionally catching Ryan glancing at her, his expression a mix of protectiveness and something she couldn't quite name.
When they arrived, Ryan opened the car door for her and carried her bag up to her apartment. He moved with an ease that suggested he wasn't going anywhere soon, and Serena found she didn't mind.
"Make yourself at home," she said as they stepped inside.
Ryan set her bag down by the couch and looked around. The apartment was warm and inviting, filled with personal touches; cozy throw blankets, framed photographs of her, and shelves stacked with books.
"Nice place," Ryan said, his smile genuine.
"Thanks," Serena replied, sinking onto the couch with a sigh. "It's nothing fancy, but it's home."
Ryan sat beside her, his gaze lingering on her. "Can I get you anything? Tea, water, food?"
"You don't have to do all this," she said, though she couldn't help but smile at his attentiveness.
"I want to," Ryan insisted. "Let me take care of you today."
Serena relented, giving him directions to the kitchen. While Ryan busied himself making tea, she leaned back against the cushions, feeling a mixture of exhaustion and gratitude.
Minutes later, he returned with a steaming cup of tea and a plate of biscuits he'd found in the pantry. "Here," he said, placing them on the coffee table.
"You're spoiling me," Serena teased.
"You deserve it," Ryan countered, his tone serious.
The sincerity in his voice caught her off guard, and for a moment, she didn't know what to say.
The two spent the day with Ryan making everywhere comfortable for Serena.
As the rays from the evening sun shone into the living room displaying two lovebirds in discussion, the front door opened, and Anna walked in, her heels clicking against the wooden floor.
"Serena..." Anna called, tossing her bag onto a nearby chair. She froze mid-step when she saw Ryan sitting on the couch beside Serena. Her eyes darted between them, a smirk forming on her lips.
"Well, well," Anna said, crossing her arms. "What do we have here?"
"Anna," Serena said, her voice filled with equal parts amusement and embarrassment. "This is Ryan. Ryan, this is Anna; my work colleague and best friend."
Ryan stood, extending a hand. "Nice to meet you, Anna. I've heard a lot about you."
Anna shook his hand, her smirk widening. "Likewise. Serena's mentioned you...a lot."
Serena groaned, burying her face in her hands. "Anna, please."
"What?" Anna said innocently, sitting in the armchair opposite them. "I'm just saying it's pleasant to finally see him."
Ryan chuckled, clearly unfazed by Anna's teasing. "I take it you're the one who keeps Serena grounded."
"Someone has to," Anna quipped.
Anna's teasing demeanor softened as she looked back at Serena "How are you now?, people at the office sent their regards." she asked, turning to Serena with concern.
"I'm fine," Serena assured her. "Just a little bruised. Ryan's been a lifesaver."
Anna raised an eyebrow at Ryan, her gaze appraising. "Well, thank you for looking out for her. She can be stubborn about accepting help."
"Don't I know it," Ryan said, his tone light but affectionate.
Anna grinned, clearly approving of Ryan's response. "Alright, you pass the first test. Now, who's hungry? I'm starving, and I make a mean pasta."
Ryan started to protest, but Anna waved him off. "You've done enough. Let me handle this."
As Anna disappeared into the kitchen, Serena leaned toward Ryan. "Sorry about her. She can be... a handful"
Ryan smiled. "She's great. I can see why you two are close."
Serena felt a warmth spread through her chest. Ryan had handled Anna's teasing and protective nature with ease, and it only made her like him more.
Over dinner, the three of them fell into an easy rhythm. Anna kept the conversation lively, alternating between asking Ryan playful questions and embarrassing Serena with stories from their past. Ryan, to his credit, answered every question with charm and good humor.
By the time the plates were cleared and the evening wound down, Anna gave Ryan an approving nod. "Alright, you're officially in my good books," she said. "But don't think I won't come after you if you hurt her."
Ryan nodded solemnly. "Understood."
As Anna headed to her room, she shot Serena a sly wink, leaving her and Ryan alone in the living room.
"Thank you for today," Serena said, turning to Ryan. "I don't know how I would've managed without you."
"You don't have to thank me," Ryan replied. "I'm just glad you're okay."
They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the day settling over them. Finally, Ryan stood, grabbing his jacket. "I should let you get some rest."
Serena walked him to the door, her heart tugging at the thought of him leaving. "Ryan," she said as he turned to go.
He looked at her, his expression soft. "Yes?"
"Thank you," she said again, her voice quieter this time.
Ryan smiled, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Goodnight, Serena."
"Goodnight," she whispered, watching as he disappeared down the hallway.