Page 49 of Truck Hard

She exhales shakily, some of her careful composure cracking. “I-I didn’t think...” Her voice catches. “He just showed up, like he still had the right to. Like nothing had changed.”

“It’s okay to be scared.” I tell her, fighting the urge to pull her closer. “But you’re not alone anymore. I’m here, and I won’t let him near you again.”

Her eyes meet mine, filled with a mix of vulnerability and determination that makes my heart ache. The weight of our shared history—the love we once had, the years lost to fear and misunderstanding—hangs heavy between us.

But now isn’t the time to untangle that complicated web. Now is the time to focus on keeping her safe, on being the protector I should have been all those years ago.

My brothers hover nearby, their presence a silent reminder that we face this as a family. That Charlie may have money and political connections on his side, but we have something stronger—the unbreakable bonds of blood and loyalty. No matter what.

I look at Hannah, at the woman who’s endured so much yet still stands tall, and make a silent vow. This time will be different. This time, I won’t let fear or doubt drive me away.

This time, I’ll fight for what matters most.

My brothers fileout of Hannah’s house, their heavy boots echoing on the worn wooden porch. I catch Warren’s eye as he passes—he gives me a slight nod, understanding without words that I’m staying behind. That Ineedto stay behind. Hannah’s still trembling, though she’s trying hard to hide it. I won’t leave her alone. Not after what just happened.

The screen door creaks shut behind them, leaving the three of us in a heavy silence. Hannah stands near the wall where Charlie had cornered her, arms wrapped tightly around herself. Cam hovers between us, his young face etched with worry far beyond his years.

“Did I—” Cam’s voice cracks. He swallows hard and tries again. “Did I do the right thing? Going to get you?”

The fear in his voice cuts straight through me. This boy—my son—shouldn’t have to question whether protecting his mother was the right choice. Shouldn’t have to carry that burden at all.

“Yes,” Hannah and I say in unison. I move closer to Cam, wanting desperately to ease the anxiety I see in his eyes. “You absolutely did the right thing, buddy.”

“But what if...” He glances at Hannah, then back to me. “What if you being here makes Charlie worse? He’s going to hurt Mom again. I heard what he said.”

The protective rage that surges through me is almost overwhelming. I crouch down to Cam’s level, meeting his gaze directly. “Listen to me. I won’t let that happen. If Charlie ever lays a hand on your mom again, I’ll kill him.”

“Liam!” Hannah’s sharp tone cuts through the air. “Don’t talk like that.”

I don’t look away from Cam. I won’t sugar-coat this. Won’t make empty promises. “I mean it. If he hurts either of you again, he’s done for. No matter what it takes. I don’t care what happens to me. Iwillkeep you both safe.”

Cam stares at me for a long moment, searching my face. Whatever he sees there must convince him I’m telling the truth because suddenly he launches himself forward, wrapping his arms around my neck in a fierce hug. The force of it nearly knocks me back, but I catch myself, wrapping my arms around his small frame.

The emotion of the moment hits me hard. This is my son.My son. Hugging me for the first time. Trusting me to protect him and his mother. Tears burn behind my eyes as I hold him close, one hand cradling the back of his head.

“I’m here,” I whisper roughly. “I’m not going anywhere. You need anything—anything—you know where to find me.”

He squeezes tighter for a moment before pulling back. His eyes are suspiciously bright, but his chin is lifted with determination.

“Good,” he says firmly. Then, without another word, he turns and heads for the stairs.

Hannah watches him go, worry creasing her forehead. “He’s been spending so much time in his room lately, playing those games. I’m scared he’s using them to hide from everything that’s happening.”

I stand slowly. “Maybe—” I hesitate, not wanting to overstep but knowing I need to try. “Maybe he could visit my house sometimes? Get to know my brothers and Grams? They’d love to spend time with him too.”

Hannah’s head snaps toward me, surprise and vulnerability warring in her expression. “You mean that?”

“Yeah.” I step closer, unable to resist reaching out to gently caress her cheek. “I do.”

She leans into my touch, her eyes fluttering closed. The simple gesture of trust makes my heart clench. After a moment, she nods. “Okay.”

I pull her into my arms, savoring the way she fits against me, the way she gradually relaxes into my embrace. I’ve lost so many years, let so much come between us. But standing here now, holding her close while our son plays games upstairs, I can feel the pieces of my life finally sliding into place. I hope she feels it too.

“Thank you,” she whispers against my chest. “For being here. For wanting to be a part of his life.”

“I should have been here all along.” The guilt and regret threaten to choke me. “If I’d known—”

“Shh.” She pulls back just enough to look up at me. “You didn’t know. Charlie made sure of that. You’re here now. That’s what matters.”

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