“Then we figure it out,” I say.
Simple.
Certain.
Together.
Her gaze holds mine.
Longer this time.
Softer.
And finally—
“Okay,” she says.
Not automatic.
Not defensive.
Choice.
Again.
I nod once.
That’s enough.
For now.
But as I step back slightly, giving her space without letting her disappear—
One thing settles in my mind, sharp and unshakable—
Sentinel isn’t just watching anymore.
He’s inside the edges of this.
And if he thinks he can use her silence against us—
He’s about to learn exactly how wrong he is.
28
Scout
Idon’t move right away.
Even after Logan steps back.
Even after the room starts breathing again.
I stay exactly where I am, his words still settling into places I didn’t realize were… locked.
That’s him winning.
The thought loops once.
