Trigger.
I didn’t wait for the connection to stabilize. I didn’t wait for a signal bar.
I sent three words.
It’s not me.
Then I powered the phone off again and lifted my chin.
The runner’s radio crackled softly.
Orders are coming in.
Good.
That meant Thomas was nervous.
And nervous men made mistakes.
I shifted my stance, readying myself—not to run, not to fight, but tohold.
Because if Thomas had decided to threaten Wolf, Nora, and a newborn baby…
Then he had just crossed the one line that ended this.
And Trigger?
He was already moving.
53
Trigger
The call came in first.
Saint’s voice was tight—too controlled, which meant things were already moving.
“Trigger. We’ve got a report near Wolf’s place. Sheriff’s office just rolled units. Possible armed presence. Anonymous tip.”
My blood went cold.
“Say again,” I snapped, already moving.
“Nora and the baby are inside,” Saint continued. “Wolf’s home. He hasn’t engaged. Waiting.”
For half a second, the world narrowed to a single image—Wolf standing between danger and his family, refusing to move, refusing to escalate.
Because that was who he was.
Because that was whowe allwere.
Then my phone vibrated in my hand.
Once.
A message.
From Rylie.
