A/N: Post-ep for Shadows Rising.
Tony can't get the image out of his head: Dowling lunging at Carol, his hands on her neck; afterwards, Carol pale and shaken. The intensity of his own reaction surprises him; fear, then black anger toward the man who dared hurt Carol.
Still, he manages to push that aside in an attempt to reach Dowling.
He can't help stealing glances at Carol.
Now that everything's over, he imagines it's him touching Carol's neck. Tender, like a lover. Imagines his lips on that smooth skin. Wonders what she'd taste like, and if she would pull him closer or push him away.