By the time we slipped out of the cafeteria, my heart was still racing. I didn't stop dragging him until we reached the quieter side of the building. The noise from the cafeteria became distant, replaced by the rustling leaves outside the corridor windows and the occasional footsteps of students passing somewhere above us.
I let go of his hand and turned to face him.
"What was that?"
Knox looked at me as though the answer were painfully obvious.
"Protecting my girlfriend."
I stared.
"That's your explanation?"
"It answers the question."
"No," I sighed, rubbing my temple. "You just painted another target on your back."
"I don't care." His answer came immediately. "And neither should you."
"It isn't that simple, Knox."
For a moment, neither of us spoke. Then, despite myself, I laug
