Wolf handles hospital security and Mildred’s house.
Havoc gets Laney and Emmy’s movement plan—routes, backups, decoys.
Nora starts quietly relocating anything that ties Laney to predictable routines.
“Laney doesn’t know yet,” Havoc says.
“She doesn’t need to,” I reply. “Not until it’s done.”
Nora studies me. “You’re not just protecting her anymore.”
“No,” I say. “I’m keeping my family alive.”
That lands.
Wolf’s mouth tightens. “You sure you’re ready to draw that line with her?”
“I already did,” I say. “She just hasn’t seen where it’s drawn yet.”
We’re finishing up when my phone buzzes.
Unknown number.
I already know who it is.
I step outside.
“Yes,” I say.
“You’re moving faster than you should,” Marco’s mother’s voice says.
“You’re losing,” I reply.
A pause.
Then, colder, “You underestimate me.”
“No, you underestimated the Rangers.”
“This ends badly for someone you love.”
I look up at the window where Laney and Emmy are sleeping.
“This ends for you.”
And I hang up.
When I go back inside, the plan is already in motion.
And for the first time in my life…
I am not fighting for a mission.
I am fighting for my family.
86
Marco
