CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SIX - The Unexpected Threat

"Lucas," she whispered, nudging him discreetly. "That man over there. I've seen him before, at the restaurant. He gives me a bad feeling." Lucas tensed beside her, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the area. "Let's get out of here," he said quietly. "We'll come back another day." But as they turned to leave, Ella saw the man begin to move towards them. In that moment, something inside her snapped. She was tired of running, tired of being afraid. "No," she said firmly, surprising even herself with the steel in her voice. "I'm going to confront him. I'm done with this cat and mouse game." Before Lucas could stop her, Ella strode purposefully towards the man, her heart pounding but her resolve unshakeable. "Who are you?" she demanded as she approached him. "Why have you been following me?" The man seemed taken aback by her direct approach, his eyes darting around as if looking for an escape route. "I-I don't know what you're talking about," he stammered. "Don't lie to me," Ella pres