The Ranger looked up.
Straight at my truck.
Even from across the street, I could see the change in him.
The smile disappeared.
His shoulders squared.
His hand tightened around Sadie's.
He knew.
He knew exactly who I was.
And he wanted me to know he wasn't afraid.
That made me smile.
Because he should be.
Everyone should be.
I drove past them slowly.
Sadie saw me.
Her face went pale.
Good.
At least she still understood.
The Ranger stepped in front of her.
Blocking her from my view.
Protective.
Possessive.
Like some kind of hero.
I laughed under my breath.
Heroes always made the same mistake.
They thought they could be everywhere.
They thought they could protect everyone.
But eventually...
They had to sleep.
Eventually...
They had to look away.
