Running

Ana

I closed for work and left the shop, eager to get back to my son Liam, and also relieve my sister so she could go for her music practice.

As I stepped out the door, I noticed a black car that looked a lot like the one from earlier, parked a few blocks away from the entrance.

A lot of people own black cars so I didn't worry about it.

I didn't have a car of my own and I had to walk some distance to catch the bus. I hurried along but soon noticed the black car idling alongside me on the sidewalk.

I swallowed hard and clutched my bag tighter. I increased my pace, looking back intermittently to see if I was still being followed. The car increased speed as it tried to keep up with me.

Why would the man who tried to save me a few hours ago be following me? I've had enough of stalkers and wasn't interested in adding another to my list.

I picked up speed and ran as fast as my legs could carry me. The car revved up too and sped along, nearly knocking down an elderly couple who were trying to cross the road.

My heart raced violently against my chest as I ran. I thought about my son, and what would become of him if anything were to happen to me.

I thought about it and decided that running into one of the shops on the sidewalk would probably be better. Once inside, I could wait it out until whoever was following me leaves.

I yanked the door open and burst in, my heart threatening to explode from beating too fast as I clutched my chest.

I leaned against the door and doubled down, struggling to catch my breath.

The place was busy, as waiters milled around serving diners. I thought I was now safe until I looked back to see Tony getting out of the car, and walking towards the same door.

Tony again? No surprise there.

Quickly, I scanned the busy lounge and my eyes fell on the last person I expected to see, the man who'd saved me at the coffee shop. He was sitting alone, nursing a drink.

Tony was gaining ground, getting to the door. I didn't think twice before I headed for the man. If he saved me before, he probably wouldn't mind doing it again.

I went up to him but faced the door so I would be able to see Tony coming.

“Hi, we meet again. What a coincidence.” I said, out of breath. I didn't look at him, as my eyes were busy looking out for Tony.

I sat on the chair beside him, but this time I wasn't trying to be friendly. I understood he wasn't interested either, and I don't go where I'm not wanted.

I just needed to make it appear like I was conversing with him so Tony would leave.

He looked up from his glass and a look of recognition flashed across his deep blue eyes. I could tell he remembered me.

“What are you doing here?” he asked, his tone emotionless.

“I don't want to bother you,” I replied. “I just need to sit here for a minute.”

He had an uninterested look on his face as he replied, “Then make it quick. I have an important meeting here in the next 20 minutes and I don't want you around when they arrive.”

Wow, what an asshole.

I opened my mouth to say something but thought against it. He was engrossed with texting on his phone and wasn't even looking at me.

I bet that was his girlfriend. Only a woman can make a man lose his damn mind like this.

It was time to get back to Liam, so I gathered my jacket and bag and turned to leave when I felt a warm strong hand grab mine. His grip was firm, yet gentle.

I turned and gave him a questioning glare. A look that could kill, but his head was bowed, as he typed on his phone.

“I think you can help me too,” he said, his eyes still fixed on his phone. Then, he looked up, his piercing gaze locking onto mine.

His eyes were the sharpest, calmest shade of blue I'd ever seen. He was a very handsome man by all standards, especially when the glasses came off.

My cheeks flushed red, and I looked away, trying to compose myself.

“If you think I'm going to sleep with you just because you helped me once, think again,” I said in a firm voice, as I snatched my hand away from his grasp.

He stared at me like I'd lost my mind.

“It's nothing like that,” he sounded disgusted that I would even suggest such a thing to him.

But I know rich guys like him. They have money and think that every woman would be fawning over them.

“What is it then?” I asked, ready to walk out on him if he started to say something I didn't like.

“I want to make you a deal.” He said, his blue eyes staring intensely at me.

“A deal?” I repeated back at him, unsure where the conversation was headed.

His gold wristwatch gleamed in the white light as he gestured to the seat. “Will you sit for a minute?”

I reluctantly took my seat again.

“I know you're running from something, someone. And you need protection from him. I can equally tell you need money, a lot of money probably.” He said, as he gave me a once-over.

I ignored it.

“And you want to provide me with all those?” I asked, doubt seeping into my mind.

“Easily. I can guarantee you $50,000 every week, and a security detail to make sure that guy stays away from you forever.” He stated, while watching me carefully.

My jaw dropped at the amount he mentioned. I would work consistently for years before I make such an amount. And Tony would be gone from my life? Forever?

I could really use the money, for Liam and for myself. Even my sister Beth would benefit hugely from it. But it sounded too good to be true.

If I learnt anything from my parents' marriage, it is that men are not to be trusted, no matter how nice they appear at first.

“And why would you do it? I'm not some charity case to make you feel good about yourself.” I said, trying to draw out the ulterior motive hiding beneath the deal somewhere.

He smirked, exposing a set of perfect white teeth, “I won't be doing it for free.”

“What do I have to do in return?” I asked and waited for the hammer to drop.

“Marry me.”