The surge of anger and vexation cut through the waves of my fear, and I inhaled deeply, taking long and steady breaths to even my racing heart. Eric gave me a worried look and I assured him with a warm smile. I could still sense his intense gaze on me.

"I'll be back in a minute," I muttered nervously, slightly pushing the chair back. I couldn't take this anymore. With a deep breath, I stood up and took a steady step away from him and then another before I found myself walking towards the back of the restaurant on my shockingly steady legs.

An anxious sigh escaped my trembling lips...