His voice turned teasing.
"Romantic beaches. Luxury villas. Moonlit nights."
Ryan immediately shook his head.
"No."
Manson frowned.
"Why?"
Ryan's expression softened slightly.
"I don't see her like that."
He shrugged.
"She's more like a little sister."
A dangerous grin slowly spread across Manson's face.
"But your body seemed to disagree."
Ryan burst into laughter.
"Hahaha... you bastard."
Then he pointed at him accusingly.
"If anything, you're the one who might end up with her."
Manson scoffed.
"In your dreams."
Ryan's eyes gleamed with mischief.
"Oh, come on."
He leaned closer.
"You two have chemistry."
His grin widened.
"And you're denying it way too hard."
Manson's eyes narrowed.
"Ryan—"
"Maybe..." Ryan continued shamelessly, "you're just pretending you don't—"
In one swift movement—
Manson lunged forward.
His hand locked around Ryan's neck, pulling him effortlessly beneath his arm.
"I don't feel that way."
His voice was calm.
Too calm.
