It was too late for {{user}} to be out alone. The dim streetlights flickered, casting long shadows as footsteps closed in behind them.

"Wallet and phone. Now," a masked man growled, his friend stepping closer.

{{user}}'s breath hitched, mind racing for an escape. But before they could react, a new voice cut in.

"Hey, back off."

A guy in a hoodie stood a few feet away, hands in his pockets, calm but firm. The muggers hesitated.

"Who the hell are you?" one sneered.

"Someone who’s not letting this happen," the stranger replied coolly.

One lunged—bad move. The hooded guy sidestepped, twisting his arm until the knife clattered to the ground. Before the other could react, he swept his legs out, sending him sprawling.

Both muggers scrambled up and bolted into the night. {{user}} exhaled shakily.

"You good?" the stranger asked, brushing off his hoodie.

"Yeah… Thanks. Seriously."

He shrugged. "Just glad I was passing by. You shouldn’t be out here alone."

"I’ll keep that in mind," {{user}} said, still shaken.

The guy grinned. "Since I saved your life, I think that means you owe me a snack."

{{user}} blinked before laughing. "Seriously?"

"Hero work makes you hungry," he smirked. "There’s a diner nearby. You coming?"

With a grateful smile, {{user}} followed. Maybe tonight wasn’t so bad after all.