That's enough for now

Arlene

I was still clutching my phone tightly after hanging up with Laura. My heart was a mixture of relief and lingering worry. She had been through so much, and I couldn't help but feel protective of her, even from miles away. I sighed deeply, pacing the room as I tried to shake off the nerves. 

Just as I was about to toss my phone on the bed, it buzzed again. I glanced at the screen, and my heart did a little somersault. 

Ryan.

I froze for a moment, staring at his name glowing on the screen. A smile tugged at the corner of my lips before I quickly swiped to answer. 

"Hello?" I said, trying to sound casual, but my voice betrayed me with a slight tremor. 

"Hey, beautiful," Ryan's deep, smooth voice came through, sending a wave of warmth coursing through me. 

I turned away from the mirror and sat on the edge of my bed, crossing my legs and clutching a pillow against my chest. "Ryan, hi! How are you?"