He turned to look back at the property, his arms crossing over his chest. “We own it. My brothers and I. And the place can rot to the ground for all I care.”
“Right. Sure. No good memories here?” she asked.
“None.”
“I get that. I don’t have many good memories from my childhood, either.”
He turned to her again. “I don’t like that.”
“I don’t like that for you, either.” She cleared her throat. “So, is there a reason you wanted to talk to me?”
“Yes, there’s a reason. It’s early in the morning.”
“Um, yes, it is.” She watched him closely. Was he all right? Why was he stating stuff that was obvious?
“And you’re out for a run.”
“Yes, I am. So are you. Do you want me to help you get home?” she asked.
He gave her a look like he thought she was crazy.
“And you’re alone.”
“Well, not now. You’re here! Come on, let’s go back to see Eli.”
“Why are you talking to me like I’m a child?” he asked.
“Umm. Sorry. I didn’t mean to. Is there some sort of issue? Problem?”
“Yeah, there’s a problem. You’re out running early in the morning on a deserted road on your own. You don’t even have that dog with you. Can you see the issue with that?”
“Not really. You’re doing the same thing.”
“Yes, but I’m not a tiny woman who could get attacked or hurt. I’m a big guy who knows how to take care of himself. I’m not helpless.”
“Hey, I’m not helpless!”
“Do you know any martial arts? Any self-defence moves?”
“Um, well, no.”
“Do you have a weapon on you?”
“No.” She shifted from foot to foot. She could see where this was going and she didn’t like it.
“Does anyone know where you are?” He moved closer, looming over her.
If he meant to intimidate her, well, he was succeeding. She swallowed heavily.
“They might.”
“Yeah? Who?”
“Mr Johnson. He lives next door to me. Big, buff guy. He’ll come to my rescue if I need him.”
“Is that so?”
“Yep.”
