Page 85 of Ranger's Wildflower

“And you’re still staying.”

“Yeah.”

For the first time—

That doesn’t scare me.

The room is dim, lit by a soft lamp.

I shift slightly on the couch.

Closer.

Not much.

But enough.

He doesn’t react.

Doesn’t make it a thing.

Just stays.

Steady.

“I used to think surviving was enough,” I say.

“But it’s not.”

“No,” he says. “It’s not.”

I nod slowly.

Because something inside me has changed.

Not all at once.

But enough.

“I’m not signing anything,” I say.

“I know.”

“I’m not staying quiet.”

“Good.”

My jaw sets.

“And I’m not letting him take anything else from me.”

He watches me.

That same look.

Not surprise.

Not doubt.