** Paige’s POV **

The walk to the cars feels tense. Everyone is quiet. Focused. Determined.

Poppy marches ahead like a woman preparing for war, Jake shadowing her shoulder-to-shoulder, as if he thinks she might sprint off and commit homicide alone. Leo stays close behind, ready to intercept her if she bolts.

Ryder walks at my side, not touching but close enough to steady me. Remy and Callen have flanked us, and Parker stays just a step behind me, making a protective triangle around me.

We ...