Noah stormed away from the mall, his heart pounding with fury and adrenaline. He didn't want to think about Ryder—he didn't want to see his face or hear his voice.
But as he increased his pace, hoping to put as much distance between them as possible, he heard Ryder calling after him.
"Noah, wait!" Ryder's voice was desperate, but Noah didn't slow down. If anything, he quickened his stride, refusing to give Ryder the satisfaction of a response.
But Ryder was persistent. He caught up to Noah, grabbing his wrist. The sudden contact sent a shock of anger through Noah's body, and he yanked his hand away furiously, whirling around to glare at Ryder with a look that could kill.
"Don't touch me!" Noah's voice was sharp, laced with venom. "Why the hell are you following me? Just leave me alone!"
