By the empty riverbank stood Ryan in a black suit, quiet as he stared at the body of water before him. The man exuded an aura of elegance.

Madeline had Jeremy wait in the car as she approached Ryan from behind with the cake in hand.

“I’m here, Rye. How’s your leg doing?”

Ryan slowly turned around.

The setting sun shone behind the man. There was a cold and dangerous look between his defined brows that Madeline had never seen before. Still, he gave her a warm smile.

“Happy birthday.” Madeline