`` i 'm just trying to save your ass . '' i pulled my head up , seeing past my hair that the pattern on the tiled floor before us made a perfect circle . he swung it a couple of times , getting used to it as a baseball player might get used to a bat before stepping out to the plate . we ca n't protect her here in the city . the memory of the sweet kiss we 'd shared in the field returned . the side door to the building was open as they entered the office . 