It’s a simple question.
But it lands hard.
Because deep down, I already know the answer.
“I’m going to protect her,” I say. “Whatever it takes.”
When I returnto the lodge, Kayley’s pacing near the window. Aidan’s in Eli’s arms again, babbling softly. Kayley turns the second she sees me, and her facelights up.
Like I’m safe. Like I’m steady. Like I’m home.
That tight pull in my chest? It turns into something fiercer.
I cross the room in three strides. “You okay?”
“Yeah.” She exhales, then admits, “Better when you’re around.”
That right there?
I’m screwed.
Because I’m not just in this to protect her anymore.
Ineedher safe.
Ineedher here.
And whoever’s coming for her… they have no idea the line I just drew in the snow.
They’ll never cross it.
Not while I’m breathing.
FIVE
KAYLEY
I’ve told myself the story so many times that parts of it feel worn smooth, like a stone I keep rubbing between my fingers just to remind myself it’s real.
But saying it out loud?
That’s different.
That makes it breathe.
Gavin walks beside me down the hall toward one of the smaller rooms off the main lodge, his shoulder just close enough that I’m aware of the heat coming off him. He’s carrying Aidan again, like it’s second nature, like this is a normal afternoon instead of the aftermath of everything falling apart.
Aidan’s awake now, calm and alert, his dark eyes tracking the lights on the ceiling as if this is all mildly interesting instead of terrifying.
God, I love him.
Gavin pushes the door open and steps aside, letting me enter first. It’s quieter in here. Softer. A couch, a couple of chairs, a small table. A space meant for conversations that don’t belong in the open.
He sets Aidan down gently in the bassinet, checking the monitor and smoothing the blanket like he’s done this a hundred times.
My chest tightens.
I sit on the edge of the couch and lace my fingers together, staring at my hands because if I look at Gavin too long, I might lose my nerve.
