“You’ll still have to testify,” he said. “But from what we’ve seen, you’re more victim than suspect here.”
Lauren brushed a hand along Nathan’s cheek.
“You came for me,” she whispered. “Without even knowing if I was really alive… you came anyway.”
Nathan glanced past her at the boy pouring water into a bowl for Ranger.
“It wasn’t just me,” he said. “It was him.”
Aiden shuffled closer, suddenly shy.
“Sir,” he said, stumbling over the words, “if you want… I can look after Ranger while you’re in the hospital.”
Nathan smiled—tired but genuine.
“Of course, kid,” he said. “I think he’s already picked you.”
Aiden scratched Ranger behind the ear. The dog wagged his tail and leaned against him.
“I like him,” Aiden said. “And I like you too, sir. Even if you look kinda mean sometimes.”
Lauren laughed softly. Nathan reached out and ruffled Aiden’s hair.
“You’re brave, Aiden,” he said. “You did what a lot of grown men never had the guts to do.”
“My mom says,” Aiden replied, “you don’t have to be big to do what’s right.”