Page 317 of Rangers Mountain Rescue

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95

Havoc

“No.”

The word comes out before she even finishes asking.

Aspen freezes.

“You’re not serious,” she says.

I don’t hesitate.

“I am.”

The barn is still heavy with smoke and dust, the aftermath of the fight hanging in the air—but this?

This is different.

This is where I draw the line.

Her eyes flash.

“I’m not staying behind.”

“Yes,” I say. “You are.”

Silence.

Sharp.

Immediate.

Because she’s not used to that tone from me.

Not like this.

Not when it’s final.

Her chin lifts.

Defiant.

“I helped find this,” she says, gesturing toward the box. “This is my grandpa’s land. This is my—”

“It’s exactly why you’re not coming.”

That stops her.

Just for a second.

Then—

“That’s not your decision to make.”

I step closer.

Not aggressive.

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