His anger surged, oblivious to the young police officer's presence.

He lashed out at Raegan, yanking her hair and hurling her toward the wall.

The sudden violence left everyone frozen, too shocked to intervene.

Raegan's head throbbed from the rough pull, and as the wall Loomed closer, she braced for the blow, squeezing her eyes shut.

Then, a loud thud echoed, but the pain wasn't as searing as she feared.

Raegan felt a familiar warmth envelop her and peered open her eyes to Mitchell's stern profile.

Disoriented, she gazed into his dark, piercing eyes, half-believing it to be an illusion.

Mitchell's presence was unexpected and bewildering.

She recoiled on instinct, but his firm grasp steadied her, and she found support against him.

Meanwhile, the troublemaker was restrained by the police officer, his form pressed to the ground.

"Do you require medical help?" the police officer inquired.

Raegan shook her head, feeling a slight spin, but declined any medical aid.

As the authorities began escorting the troublemaker to the station, their attention drifted to Mitchell. The officer, uncertain, turned to Raegan.

"Are you acquainted with this man?"

Their conflicting answers slipped out in unison.

A shadow crossed Mitchell's features, his hand balling into a fist, knuckles bleaching with tension.

He felt he was an idiot who came here to offer help to her.

Mitchel was frustrated. He already knew Raegan didn't want to see him, but he still chased after her.

And what did he get in return?

First, Raegan told Matteo straightforwardly not to call her Mrs. Dixon anymore.