CHAPTER SIXTEEN – THE WHITE KNIGHT

"I'm sorry you had to go through that," he said softly. "Is there someone who can take you home?" Joan shook her head. "I usually walk. It's not far." "If you'd like, I could walk with you," he offered. "Just to make sure you get there safely." Joan hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "I'd appreciate that. Thank you." As they left the restaurant, Joan's colleagues watching worriedly from the window, the young man finally introduced himself. "I'm Vito, by the way. Vito Fratelli." "Joan Keppler," she replied. "I... I can't thank you enough for what you did back there." Vito shook his head. "Anyone would have done the same." "I don't think just anyone could have taken down three attackers like that," Joan said, a hint of admiration in her voice. Vito chuckled softly. "Well, let's just say I've had some training. My family insisted." As they walked, Joan found herself relaxing in Vito's presence. There was something calming about him, despite the intensity she had witnessed earl