Page 109 of True North

“Yes, ma’am” is all he says.

I walk away, leaving him stalled out where he stands, and head for Horse.

ChapterTwenty-Eight

HARRY

Fine fingers brush over the trigger of my Winchester. I wrap my body around Louisa from behind. I can’t send her up the mountain in good conscience, knowing what she’ll find, without giving her a way to defend herself and Horse.

“Like this?” Lou asks softly, jaw set as she concentrates.

“Yup. Brace the butt of the rifle into the hollow between your shoulder and chest, raise the piece so you can look down the barrel, aim with the marker on the tip. See the tiny lug at the end?”

“I see it.”

“Good, aim.”

She sucks in a breath and holds it as she moves the rifle. It’s an almost imperceptible movement. Precise and accurate. She’s already good and hasn’t let off a shot yet.

“Target acquired, sir.” She gives me a cheeky sideways look.

Sirmy ass.

“Somebody’s been watching too many action films,” I drawl and tighten my hold on her before stepping back. “Squeeze your finger over the trigger and be prepared for the kickback.”

She gives me a subtle nod.

Another inhale, she stills, and...

Crack.

The small paint tin on the fence post yards away flings from its spot, crumpling as it falls into the grass.

Hot damn, woman.

Lou’s eyes light up as she turns to me, pointing the rifle to the ground. “I did it!”

“You did. Good shot, little lady. Next one,” I say, nodding to the next post along. The can is smaller, more like a soda can.

“Yes, sir.”

She readjusts her position and aims.

Crack.

The can wobbles but doesn’t fall.

Missed.

“Shit!” she growls.

A chuckle falls from my throat. The disappointment on her face forces it to fade out, and I give her a nod. “Again.”

Brows lowered, she sets her jaw, fire growing in her eyes.

That’s my girl.

“Time to meet your maker, Mr. Can,” Lou hisses.

---