Just as Clyde opened his mouth to respond, his phone vibrated, breaking the tense silence with the intrusive buzz of an incoming message.
Clyde pulled out his phone, his brows furrowing slightly as he read the message.
The light from the screen cast a cold glow on his face, contrasting sharply with the warmth of the firelight.
Ryley watched him anxiously, his heart pounding in his chest. The sense of desperation grew stronger, twisting inside him like a knife.
He didn't know why he felt this way, why the thought of Clyde leaving filled him with such dread.
But the feeling was undeniable, an ache that he couldn't ignore.
After reading the message briefly, Clyde finally spoke, his voice carrying an authoritative yet gentle command. "Close your eyes. It's getting late."
Ryley scrunched his brows defiantly, his frustration evident. "I can't sleep unless you tell me what you want so I can see my daughter again—"