The city lights drifted past outside the windows of Riley's car.
Rush hour had begun to fade, leaving behind calmer roads and quieter streets.
Inside the vehicle, a comfortable silence settled between Riley and Stephanie.
It wasn't the awkward silence they once shared.
Nor the peaceful silence they enjoyed during their morning jogs.
This one carried hesitation.
Thoughtfulness.
Stephanie sat in the passenger seat, her fingers lightly intertwined on her lap.
Her gaze occasionally shifted toward Riley.
Then away.
Then back again.
Riley noticed.
Of course he did.
Several minutes passed before he finally spoke.
"There's something on your mind."
Stephanie stiffened slightly.
"...Is it that obvious?"
"Yes."
"Oh."
Silence returned briefly.
Then—
"...Can I ask you something?"
"You just did."
Stephanie glanced toward him.
"...Riley."
He looked at her briefly before returning his attention to the road.
"Go ahead."
Stephanie hesitated.
Then quietly asked,
