Page 312 of Reaper Said Mine

"Yes."

I step closer until only a few feet separate us.

"I know executives funded violence."

His expression remains unchanged.

"I know politicians profited from instability."

Nothing.

"I know military planners manipulated intelligence."

Still nothing.

"I know every major faction contains people who helped create this disaster."

Something flickers in his eyes then. Tiny, but real.

Because that's the problem.

Not one faction.

Not one enemy.

All of them.

"And I know you're asking me to protect them."

The words hit their target. Several journalists stop pretending to work.

Dawson's eyes narrow.

"I'm asking you to think bigger."

"No."

The answer comes easily. Firmly."I'm done thinking smaller."

The room falls silent. No keyboard clicks. No whispered conversations. Just people listening.

Dawson studies me. For a moment I see disappointment rather than anger. It looks almost paternal, as though I've failed some examination I never agreed to take.

"After everything I did for you."

The sentence hurts because part of me remembers the truth behind it. The mentorship was real. The opportunities were real. The guidance and support were real. Not all of it was manipulation. That would be easier. Life rarely offers truths that convenient.

I swallow and answer honestly.

"After everything you did for me."

His expression softens slightly.

"You should have known I wouldn't bury this."

The softness vanishes immediately.

For several long seconds neither of us speaks.