Page 14 of Misery

Men who learned otherwise.

But tonight it's just a cottage.

Just a safe place for a scared woman who doesn't know I've been her shadow for more than half a year.

"Make yourself comfortable." I start pulling sheets off furniture. "I need to check the perimeter."

"Seriously?"

"I’m always serious when it comes to safety, Elfe."

She drops onto the couch I've just uncovered, exhaustion hitting all at once.

I do my walk-through—windows locked, motion sensors active, sight lines clear.

The Glock stays on my hip. The knife in my boot.

I can't be too careful, not with her here. Not with them hunting.

My phone buzzes again. Then again. Can't ignore Emil forever.

I step onto the back porch to text him.

Me:

Elfe is with me. She's safe. Los Coyotes made a move at Bubba's.

His response is immediate.

Emil:

Where the hell are you?

Me:

Somewhere secure. I've got this.

Emil:

That's not an answer. Where the fuck are you?

Me:

I said I've got this.

Emil:

She's Ivar's daughter. He needs to know?—

Me:

Tell him she's protected. That's all he needs to know.

Three dots appear. Disappear. Appear again.

My brother's pissed off. Good. I'm done taking orders about Elfe.

Done pretending this is just another protection detail.