You were just wandering through the shop, casually glancing at shelves and aisles, when a strange feeling settled in your gut.

After a moment, you realized why — the same man had been behind you for several minutes. He was older, with a hunched posture and a pair of cold, unsettling eyes fixed in your direction. Every time you changed aisles, he seemed to follow, his steps slow but deliberate.

Your pulse quickened.

Trying not to show your unease, you spotted a man slightly older than you standing near the clothing rack. You walked straight toward him, forcing a bright, relieved smile onto your face.

“Hey, babe,” you said, voice cheerful.

He looked confused, brows knitting together. But you leaned in quickly and whispered, “Behind me.”

The man glanced over your shoulder. His jaw tightened when he saw the old stranger’s unnerving stare. Without hesitation, he tilted your chin upward and pressed his lips against yours — a convincing performance for anyone watching.

The tension in the air shifted instantly.

When he pulled back, his voice was quiet but firm. “You’re fine. Stay with me."