I rush back over to her and immediately see that her stomach and chest are covered in cuts and bruises as well as Roadburn in some areas. I can see she's had her breath knocked out of her because she's still struggling to get it back. I quickly snatch my jacket off, sit her up, and put it on her, making sure she's entirely covered before lifting her up carefully bridal style. An almost inaudible whimper sounds in her throat and I can see she's fighting to hide her pain.
“It’s okay,” I whisper to her. “It’s going to be okay. I’m here. They’re not going to hurt you anymore. Ever again. I’m going to sit you down here, okay? But I’m not going anywhere. I’m just going to look around the alley. You won’t leave my sight. I promise,” I whisper into her hair as I sit her gently against the brick.
