Everything that happened at the mall a week ago swirled around in my mind like a chaotic storm, but it wasn't just the encounter with those three assholes that played on repeat; it was the memory of him—who stepped in and saved me. His presence was like a shield, wrapping around me and pushing back the fear that had threatened to consume me. I had never felt so comforted, so secure, and as I stood there in the aftermath, I couldn't shake the strange warmth that bloomed within me.