And we check on Ryan before we shift gears.

Chapter 26: Turning Around

Around the same time, Mana comes over to Ryan's room to see how he's doing and on the way there, he heard some guitar sounds that leads closer to Ryan's room and he couldn't help but hear Ryan actually sing...really good and he was floored by the emotional angst in his voice that it grew much more vulnerable and powerful than ever.

He stood on the side of Ryan's door as he continued hearing him sing and didn't want to interrupt him and waited until he was done, but can be amazed by that voice and he smiled at him for a second and after he was done, Mana just couldn't wait to applaud him. Ryan turned around and didn't realize that Mana was actually standing there and he said, "That was amazing, man."

"Oh...thanks." Ryan said, in a shy tone.

Mana came in the room and he was still amazed and awestruck by Ryan's talent and he said, "I did not know you could actually sing that well."

"I already thought you knew." Ryan said, a little surprised.

"No. I knew you were good with the guitar and piano, but I never took the time to actually hear your voice. It's different from anything I've heard before." Mana added.

Ryan chuckled softly at this and he said, "Well...with all the shit I've been through, it actually helps me heal a little bit. Just my personal therapy to get every single parts of me out. From being bullied by those asshole jocks, the struggle to come to terms with my bisexuality, fear of being judged and discriminated and the appreciation of the pack and also with my boyfriend, Kendall."

Mana was deeply impressed by Ryan showcasing his talent and he said, "I commend you, Ry. It gives you the strength you need to overcome anything you set your mind to. I know that it's been a huge ordeal at campus, but you got us in the end."

"I know I do. I have you guys and my Kenny to thank for that." Ryan said, chuckling.

Mana nodded his head and is also proud of Ryan for finding love in someone and he said, "Speaking of Kendall...he's an awesome guy. I'm lucky that you guys are together. In fact, I was thinking about inviting him over for dinner sometime."

Now that sent Ryan in a joyful state and he said, "That'd be awesome. I can call or text him and let him know about it. He's been wanting to meet the entire pack."

"Please do, Ry. It'd be awesome to have him here." Mana added.

Ryan smiled in response and said, "Thanks."

The dinner scene will commence later in the story. For now...let's focus back on Casper and Justin.