“Because it’s true.”
I search his face, looking for doubt.
There isn’t any.
That should scare me.
Instead—
it steadies me.
My hand lifts without thinking, resting against his chest, right over his heartbeat.
Strong.
Steady.
Alive.
“You’re going to get yourself killed,” I say softly.
His hand comes up, covering mine. “Not before I get you through this.”
A breath catches in my chest.
“Jase…”
His forehead brushes mine, just for a second. “You don’t have to do this alone anymore.”
I close my eyes briefly.
Because for the first time—
I actually believe him.
And that?
That might be the most dangerous thing of all.
35
Jase
Location: Safehouse — Exterior Perimeter
Time: 10:26
The first sign isn’t loud.
It’s wrong.
Ronan’s voice cuts through the comms, low and controlled. “Movement. Two vehicles, no lights. North ridge.”
Everything in me goes still.
Then sharp.
“How far out?” I ask.
