Page 91 of Rangers Mountain Rescue

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She almost smiles.

“Yes, sir.”

There’s a softness in her tone.

Something new.

Something dangerous. The look in her eyes almost has me reaching for her.

I take a step back.

Buddy nudges my leg.

Again.

I crouch down.

Look him in the eye.

“Take care of them,” I say quietly.

The dog licks my face.

Gross.

Effective.

I stand.

Force myself to step back.

Distance.

Needed.

Necessary.

“Let’s roll,” Ace calls.

Engines rev.

The team moves out.

I don’t look back.

Can’t.

Because if I do…

I might not leave.

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