Jack instinctively removed his hand from his sidearm, holding his palms open and facing the woman in a gesture meant to calm her. She had stumbled back, wide-eyed, clutching at her chest as though she could steady her own breath through sheer will. People around them started to glance over, a few tourists freezing in place, unsure of what had just happened.

“Ma’am, it’s okay,” Jack said calmly, keeping his voice steady and reassuring. His sharp eyes softened as he assessed her—she appeared uninjured, but clearly shaken. “I’m sorry if I startled you. Are you alright?”