As the train rattled along, Claire tried to calm her thoughts. Don't be paranoid, she told herself. But the feeling wouldn't go away. Her hands tightened on her bag.
When the next stop was announced, she made a sudden decision. Even though it wasn't her station, she would get off first. Something inside her told her it was safer that way.
She gathered her things quickly, almost too quickly, as if the man could sense her sudden urgency. Standing up, she headed for the doors. Just before she got out, instinct made her turn back.
The man was still watching her.
His heartbeat quickened as the doors closed behind him. The train pulled away, carrying him far away. He exhaled, a shaky breath of relief and confusion at the same time. What had just happened? Was he imagining danger where none existed?
He decided to wait for the next train. Perhaps the journey would be more peaceful, perhaps the anxiety would ease.
But fate had other plans.
