Chapter 4 The Stalker

Rory's heart was racing as she clutched Alex's arm. "What's wrong?" he asked, his eyes scanning the darkness.

Rory nodded towards the figure lurking in the shadows. Alex's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in anger.

"Stay here," he growled, pushing Rory behind him.

Alex strode towards the figure, his fists clenched. But as he approached, the figure melted into the darkness, disappearing from sight.

Alex turned back to Rory, his eyes still blazing with anger. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice low and urgent.

Rory nodded, still shaken. "Y-yes," she stuttered.

Alex pulled her into his arms, holding her close. "I'll protect you," he whispered. "No one will hurt you while I'm around."

Rory felt a wave of relief wash over her. She knew that Alex would do everything in his power to keep her safe.

But as they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Rory couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. She glanced around, but saw nothing.

"Alex, I think we should get out of here," she whispered.

Alex nodded, his eyes still scanning the darkness. "Yeah, let's go."

They walked back to Rory's apartment, their arms around each other. But as they reached the door, Rory saw something that made her blood run cold.

A piece of paper, taped to the door. With a message, scrawled in red ink:

"Stay away from him."

Rory's heart skipped a beat as she stared at the message. Who was behind this? And what did they want?

To be continued...