You don’t stop running until your lungs burn and your legs scream, the hem of your dress torn from catching on every branch in your path. The barn appears like salvation—tucked in the quiet of a field, its doors cracked just enough for you to slip in. You duck behind a stack of hay bales, heart pounding. You don’t know where you're going, only that you’re not staying.
A voice breaks the silence behind you. “Rough day?”
You freeze. Slowly, you stand, turning toward the sound.
He’s leaning against a post, sleeves rolled up, hair slightly messy like he’d been working—like he belongs here. The smirk on his face is equal parts amused and curious. Then you realize something else.
You know that face.
“Wait… you’re Jamie?”
His brow lifts. “Guilty.”
Your stomach drops. “You’re the one they want me to marry.”
He nods, tone even. “Guess that makes this awkward.”