The guilt hit harder than the anger.
Because I'd stayed away from her.
I'd kept my promise.
I'd done exactly what her father asked.
And while I was honoring that promise...
Sadie had needed protecting.
Hank studied me quietly.
Then his expression softened.
Just a little.
"Beast."
I looked at him.
The old rancher nodded once.
Slow.
Meaningful.
Like he was making a decision.
Then he said the last thing I expected.
"Maybe I was wrong."
"What?"
"About you staying away from her."
The words hung between us.
Heavy.
Important.
And before I could respond, Hank looked toward the road where Sadie had disappeared.
Then back at me.
"If Gerald's back..."
His jaw tightened.
"...my daughter shouldn't have to face him alone."
7
SADIE
Something hit my window.
