I keep my attention on Arturo. “I will help stabilize Halo where I can. I will testify. I will identify Ron’s remaining weapons caches. I will protect civilians if violence rises again. But I will not lead Lenrog’s empire, inherit his debts, carry his name, or become a cleaner version of the thing that poisoned this city.”
Arturo nods slowly, as if he expected the answer and still needed to ask. “Then what will you do?”
Evie’s thumb moves across my knuckles.
I look at her.
She smiles.
I look back at Arturo. “I am moving into an apartment above a bakery.”
Cleo actually laughs.
It is short, surprised, and almost human.
Arturo’s face softens. “Lenrog would have found that amusing.”
“I do not care.”
“Yes.” He picks up the case. “I believe that is why he liked you.”
“Do not make that my problem.”
“Fair.” He pauses at the door. “There may come a time when Halo needs more than pastries and good intentions.”
“Then Halo can organize itself.”
“With you?”
“With everyone.”
He inclines his head. “Good luck, Kauss.”
When they leave, Evie is very quiet.
I turn to her. “What?”
“You chose me.”
I frown. “That was not in question.”
“It was for me.”
Pain moves through me. I lift her hand again. “I am sorry.”
“I know.” Her smile trembles. “Say the bakery part again.”
“I am moving into an apartment above a bakery.”
“Hmm.”
“Was that insufficient?”
“Say my bakery.”
I understand then.
Not ownership.
