“Could say the same about you,” she mutters but doesn’t look up from her phone.

So . . . I leave.

* * *

Ryot: I know you asked me to leave, and you think we’re broken up, but I’m going to tell you again, over and over until you hear me. I’m not leaving your side, Myla. You matter to me. You must know that.

Ryot: Morning, baby. Wanted to tell you how much I love you. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there for you the way you needed me, but I’m here. I’m always here with you. You just need to let me in.

Ryot: Remember the day you came to watch me play baseball? The first game ever? Do you remember our conversation in my car after the game? I told you I would always be honest with you. When I say you come first, you do. In my mind, you’re always fucking first, and even though there are times when my job won’t allow me to hold your hand or cradle you to my chest like I know you need, you are eating up the space in my head. That’s because I love you. Always have, always will.

Ryot: I’m stopping by to drop off some of your favorite soup. I’ll leave it outside so you don’t have to face me if you’re not ready. Love you, baby.

Ryot: I stopped by your restaurant tonight, after the game, in the hopes to at least catch sight of you, but they told me you don’t work there anymore. Myla, I would love to just talk. Please, just let me in.

Ryot: We made the playoffs. The boys are off celebrating, but I didn’t have it in me. I want to celebrate with you. Text me back. Maybe we can go grab some Drumsticks. Or some Cold Stone. You don’t have to twist my arm to splurge on the good stuff for you.

Ryot: Off to Atlanta. I left a package on your doorstep. It’s just some stuff in case you decide to watch the games. Some of your favorite popcorn, chocolates, and some Bobbies underwear. I’m not expecting you to wear it but, you know, if you did, I wouldn’t be opposed. Love you, Myla.

Ryot: Getting ready for the game, and one of the guys walked in after a long night out, and I swear to Christ he smelled like you. He was wearing some girl’s perfume, and it’s what you wear. I was turned on and confused all at the same time. You’re the only one I’m telling this to.

Ryot: Okay, I told Walker, and now he believes I’m in love with Charles, who was wearing the perfume. This is what happens when you consume my brain.

Ryot: I miss you, Myla. So much so that I looked through pictures of us tonight. Have I told you how much your smile lights up a room? Well, it does. I want to see that smile again. I want to see you happy. Please, Myla . . . please text me back. I love you.