Chapter 17 The snow covered landscape was eerily silent .
I stared at him , stunned .
Ryder , in his crisp uniform , stood tall and straight , his insignia gleaming in the sunlight .
Compared to three years ago , his features were sharper , more defined .
A sense of weariness touched his face .
I quickly dismissed the thought .
It couldnt be .
He should be married , happy , successful .
While I studied him , he studied me .
Up close , he saw the details I was taller , no longer reaching only his shoulder .
My hair was shorter .
I was thinner .
I hadnt taken care of myself .
Time seemed to stop .
Then , a casual voice broke the silence .
Who are you ? Ethan Fullers gaze fell on Ryders insignia , his eyes narrowing slightly .
This was a big shot .
Ryder ignored him , his dark eyes fixed on me , never wavering .
As if afraid Id disappear if he blinked .
His grip on my wrist tightened .
Claire , tell him who I am .
11:38 < Chapter 17 He made me answer .
I hesitated , then whispered , Uncle .
The two words hit Ryder like a physical blow .
His heart throbbed .
Menu He couldnt remember the last time hed heard that .
His dormant heart began to beat again ; his blood flowed anew .
Ryders eyes darkened , his grip tightening further .

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Only Uncle ? He pressed , needing that confirmation .
My slender wrist was reddening .
I frowned , about to pull away when Ethan Fullers hand covered Ryders .
The usual casualness was gone from Ethan Fullers eyes .
He smiled , but it wasnt a genuine smile .
Officer , even if youre her relative , you need to maintain some decorum .
Ryder finally looked at him , a storm brewing in his eyes .
Simon Jones arrived , quickly separating their intertwined hands .
Nephew , my good nephew , what are you doing ? Were family ! Simon Jones chuckled nervously , drawing Ethan Fuller into a conversation , attempting a hearty brotherly hug .
Ethan Fuller avoided it , turning to I shook my head .
Go ahead .
Hes my uncle .
me .
Need help ? The exchange was simple , but Ryder sensed an unspoken connection between me and Ethan .
11.20 2.4 % < Chapter 17 His breath hitched .
Menu Ethan Fuller gave Ryder one last look , his voice normal .
Okay .
Come over for cola chicken wings tonight .
Ill make them .
Okay .
I agreed readily , revealing their intimacy .
Simon Joness heart skipped a beat .
Im hungry too ! Nephew , share some with me ! Lets go … I want to see your cooking skills … He linked arms with Ethan Fuller , gently guiding him away .
Only Ryder and I remained .