Chapter 73

Emily’s POV

I was on my tenth lap, and my lungs felt like they were filled with acid. Every step sent a dull throb through my calves, but I kept my pace. I didn't want to stop.

I rounded the corner of the track, pushing for more speed, and slammed straight into a wall of solid muscle.

I stumbled back, my boots sliding in the dirt, but Nathan didn't even move. It was like running into a mountain. Before I could fall, his hand shot out, gripping my elbow to steady me.

"Giving up already?" he asked.

I wiped sweat from my forehead and forced a jagged laugh. "Not even close."

His lips quirked into a small smirk, but it didn't reach his eyes. They stayed sharp, focused on something I couldn't see. "That’s enough for today."

I pulled my arm back, frowning. "What? Why?"

"My father called," he said. His voice dropped, turning hard and icy. "It’s urgent."

The playfulness was gone. "Then go. Don't let me keep you."