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His eyes harden.

“Until I find out who murdered Nathan.”

He pauses.

“And put an end to whoever came after you.”

For the first time since I climbed through that bathroom window, I believe someone when they tell me we're safe.

Because Cole Barrett isn't asking me to trust him.

He's making Nathan one final promise.

And somehow I know he'll die before he breaks it.

48

COLE

“Again.”

Claire stares at me from across the table.

“I've already told you everything.”

“Tell me again.”

Her eyes narrow.

I remember that look.

Nathan used to call it the warning shot.

Apparently, I haven't forgotten as much about Claire Donovan as I thought.

“Cole,” Doc says quietly.

I don't look at him.

“Two nights ago. Start there.”

Claire folds her arms.

Sophie finished her pancakes twenty minutes ago and is now sitting on the floor near the fireplace with Buddy, the big dog who apparently considers the Last Stand his personal kingdom.

The second Buddy walked into the room, Sophie forgot to be afraid.

At least for a little while.

She's scratching behind his ears while whispering something to him.

He's listening like she's explaining national security.

Good.

Let her be six.

The adults can handle the rest.