My chest tightens until breathing feels deliberate.

Why him??

Why now?

I imagined what he sees when he looks at me. I imagined the conclusions he might draw, and the assumptions he might make.

He has no right to say that to me. Never.

I imagine his thoughts lingering where they have no right to linger.

Was he possibly thinking I'd end up with him?

The idea that he might think about the possibility of having me all to himself made me angry.

"What do you mean", I asked sternly

I felt ridiculous. I feel angry, at myself, at him,  at James.

He circled me slowly. Each step is deliberate....