Too soon for my aching head to process, the knock came. After Andrew's unannounced visit and Ryan's revelation, I had hardly slept. I had to pick up the shattered bits after the two men had left a trail of destruction in their wake.
Anticipating Andrew's stern demeanour or Ryan's arrogant expression, I dragged myself to the door. But it was only a delivery man with a little envelope when I opened it.
"Miss Carter?"
I took the envelope with trembling hands and nodded. He left me alone with whatever new agony was thereafter tipping his cap.
Ryan's handwriting, crisp and recognisable, was on the front. As I tore it open and took out a single folded sheet of paper, my chest constricted.
**"Amelia,
After giving last night some thought, I realised I should give you an explanation. At noon, meet me in the lakeside park. Let's chat. It's crucial.
— Ryan**