I like this one. Ryman's viewpoint isn't as unrealistic as it might sound at first. I've known people who do more or less think of life that way even if they term it differently. The at first subtle progression of how he thinks of Melina is good too as well as the meaning draw from the end. It's not drawn out anymore than necessary to get the point across. Well done.

Hm the idea of life being a game...interesting. I liked the comparisons you made and things you would referred to remarked about. The writing sure flowed well, and the style gave a nice touch to the overall feel of the story. It feels very light-hearted, yet at the same time has a soft fantasy-like experience within it. Nice ending too. A bit of a surprise.

Can't say I like Ryman at all, but I do like that zinger of a closing line!

Nice to see something new from you. =)