Paige’s stern expression softened into deep empathy.

“Protecting your family isn’t the same thing as shielding the wrong person, Hannah.”

She reached down and picked up the brass key from the table.

“I’m coming with you,” she said firmly.

“No, Paige, I don’t want to drag you into danger,” I protested.

“You called me because you were terrified to go alone,” she reminded me.

“So either we go together right now, or I wake up your daughters and take them to my house while you find someone else to go with you.”

Despite the crushing stress of the moment, a small smile touched my lips.