Are You Alright?

Rina couldn't ignore it.

That feeling in her chest like a wire pulled tight, ready to snap.

Throwing on a jacket over her tank top and sweatpants, she stepped out into the cool night.

Barefoot? Who gives a shit.

Her feet hit the pavement as she approached the alley where the scene had just unfolded. The woman and the man were still there, standing close.

The robber who survived had limped off. The other… wasn't moving.

Rina kept her tone light but firm as she stepped closer.

"Hey—are you alright?"

"Oh! Y-Yes! Thank you this man saved me!

Rina's gaze flicked to the man.

Tall, broad shoulders. Hood up. He didn't say much, just gave her a nod.

Rina's eyes dropped to his hands.

Knuckles scraped. Slight tremor.

She shifted her weight casually.

"Lucky he was here then. Brave move, taking on two armed guys."

The man finally spoke voice deep, smooth.

"Right place, right time. Just doing what anyone would."

Liar.

Most people run.

But Rina smiled.

"City's dangerous at night. Be careful, yeah?"

The woman nodded rapidly. "Of course! Thank you, officer—uh, Captain!"

She recognized her. Rina Hunter's name carried weight.

Rina took a step back.

"Good. Get home safe."

They left quickly.

Too quickly.

Rina lingered a moment, eyes drifting to the blood on the ground.

Fresh.

The other guy wasn't getting back up.

Her chest tightened.

That unease was back.

Something was happening.

And this… this wasn't random.