Jackson just stares at me, shocked and unblinking – and for a split second I realize how rare it actually is for people to look him in the eye and defy him.
But his surprise is not long lived, replaced immediately by anger.
“Ariel, you will fall in line –“
“No way!” I throw back, baring my teeth at him. “Jackson, you’re being overprotective! I’ve got a big gun, I’m up here all alone, I’ve got radio to contact you and binoculars so I’ll know miles away if anyone is coming –“
“I am not leaving you alone in a battle trail again, Ariel,” Jackson snarls, leaning even closer and wrapping his hand around my arm. “Never again.”
My mouth goes a bit dry as I stare at Jackson, realizing what all of this is about.
“Jacks,” I whisper, reaching up and pressing his cheeks between my hands, staring
