Page 121 of Only the Hunter

Quinn

Sending specs. ETA 2 hours.

I’m measuring the sight line from the back lawn when Evie appears in the kitchen doorway.

“What’re you doing?”

“Reassessing the perimeter,” I say. “I’m having cameras installed. Four total. Covering the side gaps and back approach, and expanding on your current Ring camera at the front.”

She crosses her arms. “Because we filed the IG complaint?”

“Because someone cut your brake line, and there was a drive-by shooting, and now Meridian knows you’re back in the country and knows what you filed. This place needs better coverage.”

“Were you going to ask me first?”

I open my mouth to say of course.

But the truth is, I hadn’t thought to. “Would you say no?”

“That’s not the point. This is my home, Gabe.”

“I know. And I’m trying to keep you safe in it.”

Her jaw tightens. “You’re making decisions about my property without asking.”

“I’m securing vulnerabilities.”

“Without my input.”

I set down the measuring tape. “What do you want me to do, Evie? Wait until you’re hurt before I fix the things that need fixing?”

“I want you to ask,” she says quietly. “I want you to treat me like a partner, not a problem you need to solve.”

The words hit somewhere I don’t have armor.

Partner.

I want that. I just don’t know how to protect her and not take control. But…

“I am⁠—”

“No, you’re not.” She steps closer. “You’re treating me like a variable to control. Just like⁠—”

She stops.

“Just like who?” I ask.

“Nothing.”

“Say it.” If there’s some guy from her past that Scott hasn’t mentioned⁠—

“Just like my father,” she finishes.

That hits with a punch.

Not because of her father’s reputation—he’s cutthroat and demanding.

Because some part of me recognizes the truth in it. I moved into her space without asking. I changed plans without consulting her. I made decisions about her property, her safety, her story—and I called it protection.