Emily told herself she was only pausing because it would be rude to ignore him. That was all.
Ethan pushed off the lamppost, his movements unhurried, almost lazy — but there was something in the way people gave him space without a word that made her pulse quicken.
"Library, right?" he asked.
She blinked. "How—"
"I pay attention," he said simply, falling into step beside her.
It wasn't like she had invited him, yet he moved as if escorting her was the most natural thing in the world. The students they passed did what they always did: whispered, stared, and pretended not to. Emily felt every glance, as though the air itself was buzzing with questions she didn't know how to answer.
They reached the quieter path near the old chapel, the stone walls casting cool shadows. That's when it happened — a man in a leather jacket stepped out from behind the archway, blocking their way.
Emily froze.
The man's gaze was fixed on Ethan. "We need to talk."
Ethan's expression didn't change, but something in the air did — heavier, sharper. "Not here."
"Now."
There was a pause, thick enough to choke on. Then Ethan tilted his head, smiling in a way that didn't touch his eyes. "You really want to do this in front of her?"
Emily's grip on her tote tightened. She didn't understand what "this" was, but every part of her body told her it wasn't good.
The man hesitated, then muttered something under his breath and backed away, disappearing the way he came.
Ethan looked at her again, his smile softer now. "Library's this way."
Emily followed, her legs a little unsteady. She wanted to ask who that man was, but some instinct told her the answer would change everything.
By the time they reached the library steps, she still hadn't spoken. Ethan opened the door for her, his voice low as she passed.
"See, angel? You're safer with me than without."
She wasn't sure if that was supposed to reassure her — or warn her.