Winona quickly pulled Jackson away from Ares. Her mother immediately stepped in to take the boy, but Jackson wriggled free of her arms. His tear-streaked face turned back toward Ares, trembling but full of defiance.

“Stay away from my mommy!” Jackson shouted. He ran up to Ares and, with all the strength his little hands could muster, pushed him back.

“Let’s go,” Nathan urged, grabbing Ares’ arm the moment the commotion started. His voice was low but urgent. “Come on, man, don’t ...