I pounded the dirt path, my feet rhythmically pounding out my stress. Running had always been my escape, my way to clear my head and process my emotions. As a college student, I had a lot on my plate, and running helped me keep everything in perspective.
The woods were my favorite place to run. The trees towered above me, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. The sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled shadows on the ground. It was peaceful, serene, and I felt alive.
As I rounded a bend in the path, I caught sight of a figure standing off to the side. He was tall, with broad shoulders and piercing yellow eyes. His gaze locked onto mine, and I felt a shiver run down my spine.
At first, I thought he was just a hiker or another runner, but as I got closer, I realized he wasn't wearing any hiking gear or running shoes. In fact, he wasn't even wearing a shirt. His chest was chiseled, his abs defined, and his skin was a warm, golden brown.
I slowed to a stop, my heart pounding in my chest. Who was this guy? And why was he standing in the middle of the woods, half-naked?
The stranger didn't move, didn't speak. He just kept staring at me, his eyes burning with an intensity that made my skin prickle.
I felt a surge of fear, but I didn't back down. Instead, I stood my ground, meeting the stranger's gaze with a fierce determination.
What did he want? And why was he staring at me like that?