“No, sorry—but I can help look.”

Asher’s gaze traveled from me to Aiden and narrowed, his expression distinctly unfriendly. “There’s no need for that. The search-and-rescue team is currently going over the area. I’m sure we’ll find her.”

Thank God. That meant there were more people out here. Even though Aiden hadn’t said anything to threaten me, knowing we weren’t alone in the wilderness made me feel a lot better.

“Hey, Ash,” another male voice called. I knew this one immediately. Liam. “Any luck?”

“Nah,” Asher yelled back. “Found someone, but not who we’re after.”

“Oh?” Liam appeared on the trail ahead of us and stopped abruptly, running a hand through his scruffy hair. Twigs and leaves fell loose as he did so, and his gaze ping-ponged between Aiden and me. The flaring of his nostrils made me think he recognized Aiden from before. “Hey.”

I opened my mouth to assure Liam that Aiden and I hadn’t come here together, but Aiden beat me to the punch.

“I was out for a walk and ran across Kennedy,” he said. “Must be my lucky day.”

Liam grunted. I didn’t miss the assessing look in his eye. “I’m not so sure about that.” He stalked down the path toward us and jabbed a blunt finger into Aiden’s chest. “If I find out you’re the one who’s been harassing her, you’ll regret it.”

My heart jumped for joy. He was warning this guy off. Trying to keep me safe. He cared. There was 100 percent no denying it now.

Aiden took a step backward. “Calm down, man. I have no idea what you’re talking about.

Liam thundered past, intentionally knocking into him. “You’d better not.”

Asher shot us one last look and hurried after him.

Aiden rolled his shoulder. “What’s that guy’s problem? And what did he mean about someone harassing you?”

I sighed. Damn. If Aiden was the stalker, he now knew I’d told others, and if he wasn’t, his curiosity would be piqued. “It’s nothing.”

“Clearly not.” He laid a hand on my upper arm, adopting a wounded puppy look when I flinched away instinctively. “If someone is bothering you, I’m happy to stay close and make sure they don’t get to you. Would you like that?”

“No, thanks.” I shrugged his hand off. “It’s under control.”

“Are you sure?”

I gave him a look. “I really am.” Sighing, I dragged a hand through my hair. “Actually, I think I’m going to turn around. I’ve had enough of the outdoors for one day.”

His brow etched with concern. “I can walk you back to your car.”

“No, thanks. You go on. I’d hate for you to keep your friends waiting.”

He seemed reluctant but eventually nodded. “I’ll see you around?”

I was noncommittal. “Maybe.”