Page 18 of Judge's Justice

"Absolutely not."

"But Mama—"

"No motorcycles until you're thirty."

Grace slumps dramatically. "That's forever."

"Yep. That's the point." Nora walks down the steps, her arms still wrapped around herself. "Thank you. For this. She hasn't smiled like this in weeks."

"She's a good kid."

"She is." Nora's eyes go to Grace, who's still sitting on the bike pretending to rev the engine. "I don't know what I did to deserve her. But I'm grateful every day."

There's something in her voice. Something that makes me think she's not just talking about Grace. That maybe she's talking about getting out. About having the strength to leave. About choosing her daughter over a man who didn't deserve either of them.

My phone buzzes. I pull it out and see Phoenix's name.

**PHOENIX:** *Status?*

**JUDGE:** *Civilian's house. All clear. No Viper activity.*

**PHOENIX:** *You've been there for eight hours.*

**JUDGE:** *I'm aware.*

**PHOENIX:** *Judge. You need to sleep.*

**JUDGE:** *I'm fine.*

There's a pause. Then another text.

**PHOENIX:** *Brick says you're getting attached.*

**JUDGE:** *Brick should mind his own business.*

**PHOENIX:** *Are you?*

I look at Grace on my bike. At Nora watching her with a full smile on her face. At the house behind them that I've been guarding all night like it's the most important tactical position in the world.

**JUDGE:** *They need protection. I'm providing it. That's the job.*

**PHOENIX:** *That's not what I asked.*

**JUDGE:** *It's the only answer you're getting.*

Another pause.

**PHOENIX:** *Be careful. The Vipers might move soon. And if they think you care about these civilians, they'll use them.*

**JUDGE:** *I know.*

**PHOENIX:** *Then act like it. Don't give them ammunition.*

He's right. I know he's right. Getting attached is dangerous. Caring about Nora and Grace beyond professional protection makes them targets. Makes me predictable.

But I can't seem to stop.

I put the phone away and look up to find Nora watching me.