Kidnap

Stephen walked with his group of friends back from the lecture, chuckling as he made fun of one of them.

"Get out, guy, you are afraid to tell the girl you love her. Just accept it, you aren't manly enough. That dinner date was just a waste of time," he teased. All of them erupted in laughter, except for the unfortunate recipient of the sharp jab.

The atmosphere was jovial between them as they continued to chat amiably, reminiscing about old times. As they walked, Stephen's eyes scanned the environment until he spotted Elena in the distance.

He was taken aback for a moment and wondered why she was there.

"What's she doing here?" he muttered under his breath, his forehead creased with concern. Stephen pretended he hadn't seen her, but Elena waved at him, pleasantly surprising him.

"Is she here for me?" he wondered, pursing his lips thoughtfully and making a conscious effort not to overreact. But he couldn't deny the feeling of annoyance that washed over him as he remembered what s