Sharon's POV
I didn't expect to run into anyone in the alley, let alone Douglas. The narrow passageway between two old brick buildings was dimly lit, the only source of light being a flickering street lamp at the end of the block. I had been moving quickly, almost running, my breath coming in short, panicked gasps. I wasn't sure if the men from the bar were still following me, but I didn't want to stick around to find out.
"Sharon?" he asked, a hint of confusion in his voice. "What are you doing here?"
I took a step back, trying to catch my breath and calm my racing heart. "I... I could ask you the same thing," I stammered, looking around nervously. "What are you doing in an alley?"
He chuckled softly, holding up the plastic bags he was carrying. "It's a shortcut I like to take when I
