"And if she tells you to fuck off?"
"Then I fuck off."I meet his eyes."But I'll still be watching.She doesn't have to know about it."
Rush studies me for a long moment then claps me on the shoulder."You've got it bad for this girl."
"It's not about that."
"Bullshit.But it's alright.Just, be careful.If she's running from someone dangerous, getting involved could put you in the crosshairs too."
"I know."
"And you don't care."
"No."
He shakes his head, half-amused, half-concerned."Alright then.Keep me posted.And Tank?Get some fucking sleep before you fall off your bike."
"Yeah.I will."
But I won't.I can't.Not until I know she's safe.
I try to rest for a few hours—lie on my bed, staring at the ceiling—but sleep won't come.I just keep seeing her face; the fear, the exhaustion, the way she looked at me like she wanted help but was too scared to ask for it.
By midday, I give up.I shower, change clothes, and head back out.
The pub opens at noon on Saturdays.I arrive just after and park down the street where I can see the entrance but stay out of sight.
Then I wait.
She arrives ten minutes later.Same routine as last night: head down, shoulders hunched, checking over her shoulder.She opens the door and slips inside.
I give it five minutes then follow.
The pub's quiet.Just a few early drinkers scattered at tables.Enya's behind the bar with Ciara, both of them setting up for the day.She glances up when I walk in.
She sees me, and her whole body goes rigid.
I don't approach.Don't try to talk to her.I just move to the far end of the bar—same spot as yesterday—and sit down.
Ciara comes over, a friendly smile on her face."Back again?"
"Guinness."
"Right so."She pulls the pint and sets it in front of me."You're becoming a regular."
"Good pub."
She glances down the bar at Enya then focuses back on me."Is everything alright between you two?"
"Why wouldn't it be?"
"It’s just...She's been tense the last couple of days.And you keep showing up."
"I'm just here for a drink."
Ciara doesn't look convinced, but she doesn't push."Alright.Shout if you need anything."
She walks away, and I settle in.Sip my pint slowly.Watch Enya work.
