The driver's door opened, and Sean stepped out of the car. Even in the dim alley light, she could see the pure fury that rippled across his face. His jaw was clenched, and his eyes shone with hatred and violence. She shivered as he approached her, positioning his body between hers and the mysterious tall man.

"Sean," she whispered. "This gentleman saved my life."

"From them?" he asked, looking down at the men squirming on the ground.

"Yes," she said.

He turned to look at her, slowly scanning her up and down to look for damage.

"Your neck is red," he said.

"They grabbed me by the neck," she said,...