He hasn't been around enough women in Whitechapel. While each did their part to dress in a way that could attract men, they could easily appear in a state of undress. Rumpled skirts, unbutton bodices, it was a simple fact. But at the very least, he didn't seem to mind and this helped her breathe better.

She flinched at his touch, wanting to curl more into herself, but his voice was calming. It reached through her fear and panic, catching hold of her. She would follow his suggestion, if only to make all of this stop. She couldn't breathe, she trembled and wanted to scream and flee, anything to get away.

Mary nodded, ready to follow his lead. Breathing, yes, she needed that.