Loxley is getting a shipment at the bakery this morning, so I make quick work of my routine before walking along the path towards my car. I'm enjoying my morning when I feel the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
I frown before looking over my shoulder. I scan the area, but don't notice anyone besides the other man out on his morning run. He’s headed in the opposite direction, paying me no mind.
Weird.
I try to shake the feeling, but my internal alarm goes haywire. I shoot another look over my shoulder, quickening my pace before I smack right into a solid wall. I nearly stumble, but firm hands grab my biceps to steady me.
“I’m so sorry…” My voice dies as I look up into familiar blue eyes. My brow pinches, and my lips stay parted on the next part of myapology, but no sound comes out.
“What did I say about watching where you’re going?” His voice is rough, as if he just woke up. It sends a jolt of awareness zipping down my spine as I step back. His hands fall away from me as my eyes scrutinize him.
He’s wearing another t-shirt and jeans. Thick brown hiking boots cover his feet, and I take note of the odd dark stain across the top of one.
“What are you doing here?” My question comes out curt and guarded. I can't place why, but I don't trust this man. His whole aura is off, and I feel like the proximity to him is screwing with my head.
“This is a public place,” he answers as if it’s obvious. “Why are you running before the sun rises?”
I blink, trying to shake off the weird hold this stranger seems to have over me. I need to focus. “I’m an adult. I can do as I please.”
“Right,” he shakes his head, rubbing a hand across his mouth. “But being out alone in the dark can attract unwanted attention.”
“I’m seeing that,” I answer slowly, taking another hesitant step back.
“Go back to your car, Addison.”
My eyes narrow at his command. Who does this guy think he is? “Or what? Maybe I’m not done.”
“You’re done.” He answers resolutely. “Go back to your car, and keep your eyes forward. Watch your surroundings.”
This jackass!
I cross my arms, cocking a hip. “Actually, I think I have another two miles in me. Have a good day.” I go to step around him, but he grabs my bicep again, stopping me in my tracks. “Hey! Let go—”
He leans in so close I can smell the mint on his breath. Something masculine and strong washes over me, and my eyes nearly flutter at the scent. He smells good, and I hate that I noticed that. “Go. Home. Addison.” He grits.
I bare my teeth in return, not backing down. “Fuck. Off.”
His jaw ticks. “If I have to fucking carry you back to the parking meter, I will.”
I snatch my arm back, giving him one last glare. “Whatever.” I stomp in the direction of my car, muttering under my breath. “Asshole.”
That also cemented in my mind that this man was following me. Two run-ins in such a short span of time in a massive city like Columbus? I had my own stalker, and didn't know what to do about it. Instead, I focused on Loxley and what was going on in her life.
At least she knew who was following her around. I don't know anyone from Ohio besides her. This is what nightmares are made of, and nowhe'scoming to pick me up.
“Wonderful,” I mumble sarcastically as I toss my purse and duffel bag strap over my shoulder. I grab my travel cup and test its weight. “At least I can knock him out with this thing if he gets weird.” I give it a few swings and purse my lips. “Not bad.”
I peer out the window and notice the massive black truck parked in front of my complex’s stairs. It’s resting idle at a meter, and my chauffeur is leaning against the passenger side door. He checks his watch before his eyes trail to my window.
I step back, letting the curtain fall as uncertainty claws at my insides.
There’s no way he just saw me. He doesn't know where I live, but I swear we made eye contact…
“Oh, my god, I’m going insane.” I groan before opening the front door and taking the steps down to the sidewalk.
It’s still early, so the walkway isn't as packed as it usually is. I maneuver around people until I reach my chauffeur, who rudely snatches my bags off my shoulders and tosses them into the back seat. He slams the truck’s door before peering over at me. “What else do you have?”
He looks like he’d rather be anywhere else, and I can gladly say the feeling is mutual.
