Chapter 159

KEIRAN'S POV

The voice stopped me in my tracks, freezing my muscles as if someone had poured ice down my back.

I didn’t turn around. I couldn’t. My mind raced as I tried to figure out what to do.

“Kieran? Is that really you?” the voice called again, louder this time. It was deep, commanding. A man’s voice.

I clenched my fists at my sides, trying to keep my breathing steady. My whole body was tense, like a cornered animal.

Why now? Why here?

The sound of approaching footsteps made my heart pound harder. Whoever it was, they were coming closer—too close.

“Kieran!” The voice was almost right behind me. Just then, I felt a strong hand grab my arm and I stiffened.

“I knew it! It’s you!” The voice was sharp, filled with surprise, maybe even a bit of anger.

Before I could think, I pulled my arm away and turned around, pushing the man back. He stumbled but didn’t fall, his eyes widening in shock.

“Hey!” he shouted. “What’s your problem?”