章 146: Spat in the Alley

Dave turned his eyes heavenward and pinched the bridge of his nose, and Cathleen didn't know if he was quelling the blood flow or his temper.

"Actually, I was here first..." he finally answered, sounding quite pettish.

Seeing her baffled expression, he scoffed and added, "I used to be a goddamned street child, Cathleen. I know my fair share of dark corners."

She looked away from him. Then, as she rose to her feet, she listened for any shouting men or pounding feet but heard only crickets. The anger and adrenaline had subsided now, but the guilt remained - and something else.

Shame. It wasn't the first time he had been hurt because of her.

"I-I'm sorry."

The words felt odd on her tongue.