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She does.

The drive into town feels different.

Everything does now.

Every building.

Every person walking down the sidewalk.

Every car parked along the street.

Because now I know—

It could be anyone.

Ace drives.

Focused.

Silent.

One hand on the wheel.

The other resting just close enough to me that I feel it.

Like he’s still keeping track.

Still making sure I’m there.

“You okay?” he asks without looking at me.

“Yeah.”

A beat.

Then—

“Liar.”

I glance at him.

“You always this direct?”

“Only when it matters.”

I huff softly.

But he’s not wrong.

My stomach is tight.

My pulse steady—but faster than normal.

Not fear.

Not exactly.

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