unexpected connections

After a few minutes, the stranger returned with supplies from the pharmacy. He opened the car door, squatted down, and carefully attended to Annabelle's wounded leg. Cleaning the surface with cotton wool and methylated spirit, he skillfully disinfected the wound, closing it with a sticking bandage. Satisfied with his first aid efforts, he handed her a bottle of lemonade to counteract the lingering effects of alcohol.

As the stranger headed back into the car, he turned to Annabelle and asked for her address, offering to drop her off. Annabelle input her details into the car's navigation system, sipping the drink as they drove. During a momentary pause, she caught him stealing a glance at her, and their eyes met briefly before both looked away.

"Thanks for your help tonight. I couldn't imagine what would have happened if you hadn't interfered," Annabelle expressed her gratitude.