_Chapter 3: The Stranger in the Shadows_
Emily's heart was still racing as she stood there, frozen in uncertainty. Had she really seen him, or was it just her imagination playing tricks on her? She took a deep breath and tried to shake off the feeling of unease, telling herself it was just her nerves.
But as she continued walking, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was being watched. She glanced over her shoulder, but there was no one there. The streets were empty, the only sound being the distant hum of traffic.
As she turned the corner onto her street, Emily noticed a figure standing outside her apartment building. Her heart skipped a beat as she realized it was the same person she'd seen earlier.
This time, he didn't disappear into the night. Instead, he stood there, watching her with an intensity that made her skin crawl. Emily felt a shiver run down her spine as their eyes met, a spark of recognition flashing between them.
"Who are you?" Emily demanded, trying to keep her voice steady.
The stranger didn't respond. Instead, he took a step closer, his eyes never leaving hers. Emily felt a surge of fear, her mind racing with possibilities. Was he a stalker? A thief?
Suddenly, he spoke, his voice low and husky. "I've been waiting for you, Emily."
Emily's heart skipped a beat. How did he know her name? She took a step back, trying to create some distance between them. "What do you want?" she asked, trying to keep her voice firm.
The stranger smiled, a small, enigmatic smile. "I want to talk to you," he said. "About something important."
Emily hesitated, unsure of what to do. Part of her was