Chapter 23

Holy Wednesday, March 31, 5:03 p.m. Passion Ministry

White Fox slammed her against a bureau. His right thumb drilled into her larynx. “Shut your fat mouth! Where’s my book?”

Pain bolted up Virginia’s neck. Frantic, she lashed out. Her fingers tore at his head and neck, ripping free his gold chain.

“Aawooo!” His grip weakened.

She slammed a knee into his groin.

He howled, lost his hold. Doubled over, moaning.

Throat burning, Virginia stumbled away.

“You freakin’ whore!”

The door flew open. A rugged man strode in, eyes darting. “Well, what’ve we here? Lover’s tiff?”

“Thank God!” Virginia croaked. “Maniac’s trying to kill me!”

“Who’re you?” Brendan demanded, lunging at the intruder.

The stranger sidestepped. Grabbed.

Virginia gaped. For a moment, it seemed as if Brendan was hanging in mid-air. She blinked. His long body slammed into the wall. Slumped to the floor. Her escape to the door blocked, she backed around the bed.

“Don’t be afraid.” The stranger’s teeth flashed. “He’ll never touch you again.” He reached for her. “Come. Sit.”

She dropped, robot like, onto the bed.

“Gimme a minute.” He leaned over Brendan.

Virginia watched her new hero focus on the young man’s face. Brendan flinched as though absorbing a needle, then relaxed.