Beautiful saviour

I stood there, my words trapped in my throat by the mixture of surprise and apprehension. Despite my initial speechlessness, a nervous smile managed to creep onto my face. I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt, as if my presence had put her life in danger, because this crazy bastard now can “take” two prizes.

Suddenly, a surge of relief washed over me as the imposing grip of the menacing figure loosened its hold on me. Slowly turning toward the figure, I caught sight of his gaze fixated upon my savior, a fleeting trace of fear flickering in his eyes before he skillfully masked it. He snorted unhappily, regaining his composure, and walked away while muttering something under his breath, “I couldn’t care less about that bitch; my own well-being is my priority.” My heart was afraid that he would turn around and make something terrifying with us, but it didn’t happen.

In that surreal moment, it struck me that the girl who had intervened was perhaps my guardian angel in this world, a force steadfastly refusing to let me succumb to its dangers. She looked at me and shook her head to the side, suggesting that I continue on my way. I had no negative thoughts because I felt safe. I thought a little and sighed, nodded my head in agreement and we moved on.

“My name is Annette ” the girl introduced herself letting go of my hand ” I saw that you were in trouble and decided to help you.”

“Thank you so much! My name is Valery, and I am very pleased to meet you!”

As we walked side by side down the street, our conversation flowed effortlessly. It was during this exchange that I learned she was an artist who sold her own paintings. It felt like meeting her was a realization of my childhood aspiration – to become an artist unburdened by the judgments of others. She then extended an invitation to her place, or more accurately, her studio where she resided, to view her artwork. Although her gesture was kind, I couldn’t help but hesitate. After all, she was a stranger who had unexpectedly come to my aid. My thoughts wrestled with uncertainty, until she uttered a phrase that somehow struck a chord.

“If you’re worried about coming with me, that’s alright. I totally understand how you’re feeling, especially after what just happened. How about another time then? I’ll introduce you to my friends too, some of whom are police officers. You won’t have to worry with them around.”

For some reason, her words managed to dissolve my doubts, and I agreed.