Jack took Emma to a quiet café, his eyes scanning the room before he began to speak.
"I've been in witness protection," he said, his voice low. "I testified against a powerful criminal, and now I'm hiding from his associates."
Emma's eyes widened. "That's why the secrecy?"
Jack nodded. "I didn't want to put you in danger. But I think someone's found me."
The mysterious call, the cryptic messages – it all made sense now.
"Why didn't you tell me?" Emma asked, feeling a mix of emotions.
Jack's eyes locked on hers. "I was scared of losing you. I know it's selfish, but I couldn't bear the thought of you walking away."
Emma's heart softened. She saw the vulnerability in Jack's eyes, and her trust in him grew.
But just as she was about to respond, a figure appeared at the café entrance.
A figure who made Jack's eyes go cold with fear.
"Run," he whispered to Emma.