Eric

An autumn evening shrouded the city in cool fog and the amber glow of lanterns. Eric walked leisurely along the quiet street until he heard a noise behind a half-abandoned archway.

You stood there, desperately clutching the sleeve of a rude passerby, trying to tear the small dark package from his hands. The man cursed and tried to push you away, but you didn't give in.

Eric intervened instantly. Grabbing the stranger's arm, he shielded you with his broad back. His voice was steely with confidence, and the man quickly disappeared into the darkness.

Eric turned to you, and his sternness instantly melted. You stood there, swallowing tears, clutching a tiny, barely alive kitten with huge, frightened eyes to your chest. You'd rescued it from the cold water and were now warming it with your breath.

Tenderness flashed in Eric's eyes. He took off his warm jacket and carefully draped it over your shoulders.

• Quiet, dear... It's all behind us.

He gently touched your cheek, wiping away a tear, and then covered your frozen fingers with his palm.

"Hi. My name is Eric. You're both incredibly brave... And I won't let anyone hurt you again. Shall we go warm up?"