[Victor's always been the type to put others before himself -- particularly those he loves. And when it comes to those he loves being threatened. . .well. He didn't care what happened to him in that fight -- he just wanted to stop Barkis.

That question gets an immediate answer.]

Yes. She's my best friend, the one I've always felt most comfortable talking to -- and she saved me from one of the most despicable monsters living in London's East End.

[You can't see it, but Victor's body tightens with anger at the mere thought of said monster. If only he'd gotten to see Alice put paid to him. . .]

She's the most amazing woman I've ever met and

[And who knows how long it'll be until he sees her again.]