Chapter 455

• “When a mutt bites because it’s got a master behind it, it’s smarter to take down the master than the dog.”
• Zayla Steele had just turned twenty-one, but the vibe she carried didn’t match her age. It felt like she’d lived through a lot—years of grit and quiet growth.
• “Need a hand?” Felix Brooks asked. He wanted to tell her, You don’t have to bear this alone. I’m right here. When you’re tired, lean on me. If you can’t hold it together, fall—I’ll be there to catch you.