Emily's instincts took over before she had time to think.
She saw a man crouching a few steps away from Nora, holding out a brightly wrapped piece of candy.
Nora smiled innocently and started reaching for it.
"Thank you—"
"Nora!"
Emily's voice cut through the noise of the busy street.
She rushed forward and grabbed Nora's hand just before the little girl touched the candy.
The stranger slowly stood.
"I'm sorry," he said calmly. "I was only trying to be kind."
Emily pulled both children behind her.
"Stay away from my daughter."
The man raised both hands as if he meant no harm.
"You've misunderstood."
"I don't know you," Emily replied firmly.
"And you don't give candy to someone else's child."
Several parents nearby turned to look.
The stranger glanced around the crowd for a
