My phone rings.
That was fast.
I answer his call.
“What’s wrong?” Rand asks, voice slightly gravellier than usual.
I consider quipping that he’s making a big assumption, but he’s absolutely right. I wouldn’t contact him if I didn’t need his help.
“I got another message,” I say quickly. “I think he’s watching me.”
“Where are you?”
“I’m on the river path near Water End.”
“Go back towards town,” he says tersely.
Is he annoyed at me for contacting him?
“If you’re busy I can just?—”
“I’m on my way. I’ll meet you on the path in less than ten minutes. Stay on the phone with me.”
“I really can handle myself. I didn’t mean to inconvenience you.”
He scoffs. “Your safety is hardly an inconvenience. In fact, you seem to minimize it more than is healthy. I didn’t take you for a fool, Lena.”
I bristle, but I start jogging back in the direction of town.
“I texted you, didn’t I?” I shoot back.
“And how long did you wait before you texted me?”
I huff. “You’re really living up to your nickname, Professor Asshole.”
That draws a chuckle from him. Some of the tension in my chest loosens.
Bantering with him is a merciful distraction from my fear.
“Save your breath for running,” he says. “You can insult me later.”
“I’m perfectly capable of running and talking. Plenty of breath to tell you you’re being rude and patronizing.”
“Then I suggest you increase your pace. If you can tell me off, you’re not running fast enough.”
“Maybe you’re the one who should be running towardmeif you’re so worried about me.”
“I am.”
“What, worried?”
“I’m running. But yes, I’m also concerned about your safety.”
“Oh.” He doesn’t sound remotely winded.
The thought that he’s running to my rescue makes my stomach flip. I’m not sure if it’s an uneasy response or feminine gratification.
I decide to ignore it.