Then I look back at the map.
Eagle River glows softly under the red markers.
I add a note beside it.
In Progress.
54
Laney
The town hall is full again.
But it doesn’t feel the same as last time.
Last time there was anger.
Voices raised. Arguments spilling across the room like sparks.
This time…
There’s something worse.
Nervousness.
Whispers ripple through the room instead of shouting. People avoid each other’s eyes. Conversations stop when someone walks past.
Fear moves quieter than anger.
Saint sits beside me.
The baby carrier rests at his feet, one boot hooked gently through the strap like he’s anchoring it to the floor.
His presence still steadies the room.
I can feel it.
But tonight even that isn’t enough.
The other Rangers are here too—spread around the walls,watching the crowd with the quiet awareness of men who expect trouble.
The mayor clears his throat.
“First item on the agenda: rezoning parcels twelve through sixteen on Main Street.”
Miller stiffens immediately in the front row.
“That’s not necessary,” someone calls out.
“It’s procedural,” another voice says too quickly.
I follow the sound.
A man I barely recognize.
Eyes down.
Hands clasped too tightly.
