Cher's eyes met mine, a mixture of emotions in her gaze. "You did what you had to do, Lily. You protected us."

　　The memory of pulling out the pepper spray and shouting at the driver while spraying it in his face was vivid—a combination of fear and determination that had propelled me into action.

　　"We're safe now," I said, trying to reassure both of us. "The hotel staff and security helped us get back."

　　Cher nodded, her shoulders relaxing slightly. ...