Chapter 4

Cohen House

Seth: So Ryan getting upset is a good thing?

Sandy: Absolutely. Look Ryan hasn't been showing any emotions since Thanksgiving. It's like he's just been going through the motions. Him responding to something is a good sign.

Later that night

Seth: Ryan it's 1:30. What are you still doing up?

Ryan: Not really tired Seth. Actually I haven't been for a while now.

Seth: Alright well until that happens I'll watch some movies with you until you fall asleep.

One hour later

Seth is asleep on the couch. Ryan is awake but slightly drowsy.

Another hour later

Both are now asleep on the couch, each dreaming of beautiful brunettes albeit for different reasons.

Several days later.

Taylor approaches Ryan in the restaurant

Taylor: Well Ryan Atwood I came to wish you farewell.

Ryan: Yea, you going somewhere?

Taylor: Well thanks to your stubborn refusal to help me, I have no choice but to return to France where my husband is.

Ryan is stunned beyond words.

Taylor: Well now I must go say goodbye to Seth.

She leaves before the tears fall. Ryan watches her leave.

Theresa: Seems like you've really let her down.

Ryan: Yea well what can I do.

Theresa: I talked to her earlier, all you had to do was sign a piece of paper. The old Ryan Atwood would have gone above the call of duty.

Ryan: And what good did that do? Bruises? Hospital visits? Besides isn't this why you walked out a few months back?

Theresa: Ryan I never said you shouldn't help people out, all I wanted is for you to stop fighting. I was wrong to leave you behind, I admit it. But don't take what I did out on somebody else.

They stare at each other for a few seconds. Taylor walks by, head held down.

Ryan: Taylor! Wait up. I'll sign your little paper now.

Taylor: It's too late Ryan. My husband's attorney is waiting for me right- oh here he comes now.

Thinking quickly Ryan leans forward and kisses Taylor.

Ryan: Taylor can't go to Paris to her husband, because….I like her

Attorney: Well I have my doubts about your love, but clearly you have been unfaithful Mademoiselle Townsend. I will inform Henri about this…development.

He leaves leaving behind a seemingly nonchalant Ryan, a stunned into a rare silence Taylor and a slightly jealous Theresa.