Chapter 31: Unexpected connections

Emily, still focused on Ryan, didn't notice Chris at first. She kneeled down to hug Ryan tightly, her relief palpable.

"There you are! You scared me, running off like that," she scolded gently, though her tone was more relieved than upset.

Ryan giggled, holding up his sticky fingers. "I found a new friend!"

Emily's breath hitched as she took in the sight of the tall, handsome man standing before her. He had warm, brown eyes that seemed to see right through her and sandy hair that was tousled just enough to give him an effortlessly rugged look. His broad shoulders and muscular build hinted at a body that lived in the gym—one that probably knew its way around a weight rack better than most.

Chris seemed equally transfixed, his brown eyes studying her as if he couldn't quite believe what he was seeing. His gaze lingered on her black hair, which was a bit windswept from the fair, before moving down to meet her wide amber eyes.