Chapter 31
MASON
Iwait another five minutes, long enough to confirm the compound is settling back into routine. Long enough to see Lily's truck pull away from the access road without headlights, moving slow and careful until she's a mile out. Only then do I pack my gear.
My hands are steady. My breathing is controlled. Inside? There should be turmoil. I compromised my position for her. I took a shot that could have gone catastrophically wrong. I broke every rule about operational security and tactical restraint.
I'd do it again, without hesitation—and instead of being at war with myself, I’m surrendering to what this is.
What is it? I'm not watching Lily Carter anymore. I'm not running surveillance or gathering intelligence or maintaining professional distance. I'm protecting her, and protection means I'm already in too deep to pull back now.
I sling my rifle across my back and start the long hike back to my truck. The night air is cold, but I barely feel it. My mind is already running through what comes next.