“We’re leaving,” Jake said to me.

“We aren’t safe here.”

“Jake, where are we going?” I asked, my voice trembling as I looked at the dark, snow-covered driveway outside.

“The military hospital base,” Jake said, his eyes scanning the hallway.

“Major Hayes has a secured wing there.”

“My family can’t touch us on federal military property.”

I nodded, wrapping my coat tighter around Owen as he began to whimper.

We walked past Logan, who stood by the kitchen island with his arms crossed.

“Drive safe, Jake,” Logan called out, his voice dripping with false concern.

“The roads are very slick tonight.”

Jake didn’t answer him.

We stepped out into the freezing night air, the snow stinging my face.

The deputy followed us out, looking defeated.

“I’m sorry, Captain,” Miller said to Jake as we reached our SUV.

“My hands are tied when the judge steps in like that.”

“It’s not your fault,” Jake said, opening the passenger door for me.

“Logan has friends in high places.”

“But he doesn’t have them all.”

I climbed into the front seat, quickly securing Owen into his car seat in the back.