Nick picked the worst moment to cross my path. I was still burning from the misunderstanding earlier, my chest tight with irritation, and all I wanted was distance and silence so I could breathe again. I kept my eyes forward and walked straight toward the apartment, forcing myself to ignore everything else.
I didn't notice him behind me until his grip closed around my hand. His hold was firm, almost too firm, like he was trying to anchor me in place rather than let me slip away. His voice came out sharp, edged with anger and something deeper. "Are you still treating me like a kid?"
I tried to pull free, but he didn't let go. "Nick, stop this."
He stepped closer, his presence pressing in like a storm I didn't want to stand inside. I snapped, my patience finally breaking. "Yes! You're really annoying. I—Ahh!"
