Emma's mind raced as Jack took the call, his voice hushed and urgent. Who was on the other end, and what did they want?
As she waited, Emma's thoughts drifted back to her own past, to the heartbreak and betrayal she'd endured. She had thought she'd moved on, but the scars still lingered.
Jack returned, his expression tight. "I'm sorry, Emma. I have to go."
"Who was that?" Emma asked, trying to keep her tone light.
Jack hesitated, then shook his head. "Just someone from my past. It's complicated."
Emma's instincts screamed warning signs. She didn't want to get entangled in Jack's secrets, but a part of her wanted to trust him.
"Okay," she said finally. "But can I ask you something?"
"Anything," Jack replied, his eyes locked on hers.
"Do you have something to hide?" Emma asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Jack's expression faltered, and for a moment, Emma saw a glimmer of fear in his eyes.
Then, he smiled, and the moment was gone. "No, Emma. I promise. I'm just... complicated.