Hes sheepishly emerged from behind a tree. His tall frame looked almost comically out of place, trying—and failing—to blend into the scenery. He scratched the back of his head, giving her an awkward grin.
"Uh… hey, Emily," he said, his tone sounding far too casual for someone who had clearly been caught sneaking around.
Emily folded her arms, raising an eyebrow at him. "Were you… following me?"
Chris shrugged, still grinning like a kid caught with his hand in the cookie jar. "Following is such a strong word. I was keeping an eye on you. You know, just in case."
"In case of what?" she shot back, her lips twitching as she fought to keep a straight face.
"Hey, those fruit sellers can be tricky," Chris replied with a mock-serious tone. "I just wanted to make sure you didn't get swindled out of your hard-earned cash."
Emily rolled her eyes but couldn't help the giggle that escaped. "I think I can handle myself, Chris."
He stepped closer.
