The wedding day was just a week away, and Ryder's anxiety was reaching new heights. He knew he couldn't go through with the wedding, but he didn't know how to get out of it. Sophia's father was breathing down his neck, reminding him of the business deal and the importance of following through with the marriage.
Ryder felt like he was trapped in a cage, with no way out. He thought about talking to his parents, but they were so caught up in the idea of the business deal that he knew they wouldn't listen. He felt like he was on his own, with no one to turn to.
As the days ticked by, Ryder's desperation grew. He knew he had to do something, but he didn't know what. He thought about running away, but he knew that wouldn't solve anything. He thought about talking to Sophia, but he knew she wouldn't listen.
Meanwhile, Emma was getting ready for her baby's arrival. She was excited to meet her little one, but she couldn't help but think about Ryder and the what-ifs. She knew she deserved better, but a part of her still loved Ryder and hoped that he would come to his senses.
As she decorated the nursery, Emma couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. She had envisioned a different life for herself and her child, one with Ryder by her side. But that wasn't meant to be.
Despite her best efforts, Emma couldn't shake off the feeling of heartbreak. She knew she had to move on, but it was hard to let go of the past. She took a deep breath and focused on the present, knowing that she had to be strong for her baby.
As the wedding day approached, Ryder knew he had to make a decision. Would he go through with the wedding and sacrifice his happiness, or would he fight for the woman he truly loved? He knew it wouldn't be easy, but he couldn't bear the thought of spending the rest of his life with Sophia.
Ryder thought about Emma and the way she made him feel. He thought about the baby she was carrying, and the possibility that it might be his child. He knew he had to do the right thing, but he didn't know what that was.
As the clock ticked away, Ryder knew he was running out of time. He had to make a decision, and he had to make it soon. The question was, what would he choose?
The days went by in a blur, and before Ryder knew it, the wedding day was just a day away. He felt like he was staring into the abyss, with no safety net to catch him if he fell. He knew he had to be strong, but he didn't know if he could do it.
Ryder's phone rang, breaking the silence. It was Sophia, reminding him of the rehearsal dinner that night. Ryder felt a sense of dread wash over him. He knew he couldn't avoid her forever.
"I'll be there," he said, trying to sound calm.
Sophia smiled, he could hear it in her voice. "I'll see you tonight, darling," she said, before hanging up.
Ryder felt a chill run down his spine. He knew he was running out of options. What would happen next?