The screech of the iron door made her flinch—
James grabbed her by the collar and yanked her up.
/ You're still sitting out here, you little shit?
"It's decision time—my bed tonight, or a police cell! HUH?"
James kept barking, but Diana's eyes were locked on the two men who had just turned sharply toward them.
The shorter one, standing a little farther back, had a hand near the waistband of his pants. Maybe on his gun?!
The taller one—his hair soaked by rain—stood still, water dripping down his face, bangs falling messily over his eyes.
Now James was staring at them too.
/ Oh...you
The tall man calmly ran his hands through his wet hair, brushing it back.
With a slight motion, he gestured toward his companion.
The younger guy lowered his hand to his side, his gaze never leaving Diana.
Then, softly, he whispered something.
The shorter man raised a hand to his own ear and responded under his breath.
What the hell is happening?!
Even James seemed to realize something was off.
/ Is there... a problem, gentlemen?"
+Let go of her.
James didn't answer.
Just stood there.
+Jacob?
So that was his name—Jacob.
He stepped forward and grabbed James' hands.
Diana saw the veins bulge under his skin.
James didn't say a word.
Without even brushing Diana's chest, Jacob loosened his grip and peeled his fingers from her collar.
_He said let go.
Jacob's voice was calm, clipped.
Then he gently pushed James back against the wall.
Diana turned her eyes to the man the others had called Matthew.
He was staring at her. Hard.
Slow blinks. Slow breathing.
His attention never wavered—not even for a second.
His brows were furrowed slightly, and Diana had no idea why.
Was he... angry?
Terrified again, Diana looked toward the mouth of the alley.
Her instincts kicked in.
She swallowed hard—then bolted.
She ran toward the empty street.
As she passed the tall man, their eyes locked.
She looked back once—
He hadn't moved.
Hands tucked into his coat pockets,
Still watching her.