Struggling against the hand on my throat I couldn't help but remember Tink's warning when I headed out. "I don't want you to work alone tonight! (cough cough) I'm sure I'll feel better tomorrow (achoo) we still have a week to make rent!" I could swear I even heard her signature bells.

Stars flashed across my eyes as I slammed into the ground as hard as the air rushing into my lungs. I couldn't understand the words but it was gratifying to hear fear from the toughie's that thought they could get extra from a girl working alone. The new voice was surprisingly young sounding and I hoped that they knew what they were doing I couldn't take being dessert after a meal of whoop-ass from my would be rescuer.

As my gasps settled into normal breathing I realized that I could no longer hear the fight. Warily I looked up to see a stunning looking man? Looking over 3 slumped forms. "Are you OK miss?" graceful hand proffered to help me up blond hair and a very expensive suit, I would have jumped to accompany this man anywhere even if he hadn't just saved me. The chain bracelet and crystal earring didn't deter me in the slightest I've had to put up with far worse. When he would have lead me past my assailants I stopped and patted down their pockets. "Cheapskate!" with a kick to the nearest body "I knew you couldn't pay me! How am I supposed to eat and pay rent!" A groan was my only response.

"Ah miss?" placing my hand gentlemanly upon his arm and continuing to lead me away, I hope I don't offend but are you a prostitute?" a faint blush was all the more endearing as he very carefully wasn't looking at my mostly nonexistent dress.

"Streetwalker, Lady-of-the-night, or whatever your preferred euphemism." I kept watch out of the corner of my eye encase confirmation reversed all his manners.

"Do you enjoy it?" Gaping I stopped dead. "Sorry! Stupid question! I meant do you like your job? Or would you prefer legal employment if it would pay your bills?"

"If I could afford to be legit I'd never sleep with anyone again!"

"Oh! Good! I might be able to help you with that. Can I escort you anywhere?" Knight in shinning armor or not I wasn't going to lead him to my flat.

"No, I really need to be going now." I demurred.

"U hm, sorry again I'm really not expressing myself well. Ah, how much would they have paid you if the could have?"

Backing away "40,000 jenny"

"OK! Here!" and a pulled several bills from his wallet then placed a business card on top. "And if you'd like a change in employment come to this address." After placing the money in my hand he bowed and strode off. Blinking I stuffed it in my pocket and peaked the way he had left, but he had vanished. Sighing I headed home hoping that Tink's I told you so wouldn't be to bad.