Page 240 of Rangers Mountain Rescue

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One of the agents stands a few feet away.

Not the leader.

But close enough to matter.

“I’m going to need you to come with us,” he says.

My stomach drops.

“No,” I say immediately.

His expression doesn’t change.

“This is for your safety.”

“I said no.”

My voice is stronger this time.

Firmer.

Because I already know—

If I leave with them, I don’t come back the same.

If I leave with them, I lose control.

And I’m done losing control.

Behind me, grandpa shifts.

Confused.

“Aspen?” he murmurs.

I squeeze his shoulder gently.

“I’m right here,” I whisper.

Always.

I look back at the agent.

“I’m not going anywhere.”

His gaze flicks past me.

To Havoc.

And just like that—

The temperature in the room drops.

“Sir,” the agent calls. “We need her secured.”

Wrong move.

Havoc doesn’t rush.

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