And that’s when I know.
He doesn’t need to scare me.
He just needs to outlast me.
46
Laney
The SUV has government plates.
That’s what makes it worse.
Two men and a woman step out.
Clipboards.
Safety vests.
Friendly smiles that feel a little too practiced.
“We’re here for a routine land and safety inspection,” the woman says.
Saint moves instantly.
One step forward.
Right between them and the cabin.
“We weren’t notified.”
“It’s a spot check,” she replies cheerfully.
My heart starts pounding.
They begin walking the perimeter.
Taking photos.
Measuring distances from the structure to the tree line.
Writing notes on their clipboards.
One of the men pauses halfway through the yard.
He looks toward the road.
Then toward the trees.
Then toward the narrow path leading away from the cabin.
Too carefully.
Like he’s memorizing it.
“This area’s been flagged for future development review,” the man says casually.
Saint doesn’t move.
