Spoilers spoilers spoilers. Set before the events of 'Into Darkness'. Don't own anything except O.C.

She looked up into his clear blue eyes and reached out to stroke his face. This, this John, who lifted her up from the ground where she was crying. Blooming bruises rose across her skin. The new acquaintance fingers danced across her skin, checking for god knows what, she had no idea. He finally brushed against her stomach, and took a sharp breath as he traced over a cut, fresh and barely scabbed.

"Did your father do this to you?"

She paused, and turned her head to the sky. With a small nod of her head, she confirmed all guesses.

Dancing flames appeared in his eyes. Gently, he placed her on a bench and draped his coat around her. The black material was thin but sturdy, and she felt a rush of warmth that calmed her down a bit. He turned to stand, but she reached out and snatched his hand.

"What if he comes back?"

John glanced at her briefly, gaze certain.

"It will be alright. Because when he comes, if he comes, I won't let you go."

A wave of fatigue fell over her. She closed her eyes for a moment, curling farther into the jacket. When she opened them, he was gone.

All it took was one little nod.