Ruediger finally returned to Melissa and Paul's home about thirty minutes after he first left. His chest rose and fell slightly faster than usual, and his crimson locks tousled. He sprinted through the chilly night air.
It couldn't be helped. Even though the Campbells agreed to keep Lariette there for him, Ruediger didn't want to raise more suspicions. He sprinted as if his life depended on it.
"I'm back."
As Ruediger stepped inside, he brushed a hand through his hair in an attempt to tame it. His reappearance led three pairs of eyes his way.
Lariette looked up in concern, her eyes widening slightly. She quickly asked, "What happened? Did you just run? Chased by a ghost, en?"
Ruediger simply smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he closed the door, "There's no ghost. Just something I had to take care of."
