Bound by the Past, Locked by the Heart novel Chapter 131

She quickened her pace toward the bus stop, her peripheral vision constantly sweeping the area behind her, but she only saw a few scattered pedestrians and no suspicious figures.

Yet the feeling of being watched clung to her back, making her muscles tense.

She got off the bus a stop early, turned down a crowded commercial street, and deliberately took the long way around.

Only after repeatedly confirming that no one was following her did she let out a sigh of relief and continue toward her apartment.

The sky was getting dark, and just as she was about to cross the street, an e-bike suddenly rushed out from the side at lightning speed.

Fortunately, her reflexes were fast enough to dive to the side right before the vehicle could hit her.

The e-bike brushed past her arm and crashed into the guardrail, prompting the rider to curse, yank his ride upright, and speed off.

Willa fell to the ground, her scraped palms and knees burning with pain, while her arm was already blossoming with purple bruises.

She sat on the pavement, shaken, and after calming her racing heart, she replayed the scene in her head, feeling a sudden chill run down her spine.

She was certain this was no accident.

That strike was clearly aimed right at her.

Was this a warning? Or were they trying to get rid of her for good?

Once the sharpest pain faded, she propped herself up against the ground and slowly stood, her legs still trembling.

She let out a self-deprecating laugh.

She really was useless; without Randal's protection, those people were already eager to make their move.

After getting home, she received a text from Sophie.

"Willa, what time are you getting back today? I'm coming over to your place."

Willa's fingers shook as she typed back: "Sophie, don't come. It's not safe. I think someone is following me again."

Fearing her friend would worry too much, she left out the part about the e-bike trying to run her down.

Sophie's call came through immediately. "What do you mean someone is following you again? Are you home right now? I'm coming over!"

He paused. "Ms. Vance, could... could you come over and take a look for me? You're the only one I trust."

"Mr. Cavanaugh," Willa hesitated, feeling torn. "Don't panic just yet. Let me figure something out..."

"If you're busy, please don't worry about it," Mr. Cavanaugh quickly added. "I was just asking. I don't want to put you on the spot..."

"It's okay," Willa said, making up her mind. "I'll be right there."

She went to her bedroom to change, then dug a surgical mask out of a drawer to cover her face, trying to make herself look as inconspicuous as possible.

When Willa arrived at the shop, Mr. Cavanaugh was inside packing up some boxes. He froze when he saw her.

"Ms. Vance, are you sick?"

Willa pulled down her mask, inventing an excuse. "No, just a bad pollen allergy."

Mr. Cavanaugh hurried to grab a stool for her, then sat across from her, awkwardly rubbing his hands on his knees.