Warning Shot. Jenna Kernan

ain’t your concern.”

      Axel imagined the news crews and federal helicopters circling the compound. He had to stop this right now. Looking back, he didn’t know why he did it. Perhaps because it was the only idea that popped into his head.

      “She’s my girl,” said Axel.

      “She’s what now?” Eddie cocked his head.

      Axel doubled down. “That’s why she’s up here, berry picking.”

      “With binoculars?”

      “She’s my fiancée and I won’t have her touched.”

      “If she’s your girl, why she up here alone?”

      “Rylee is deciding if she wants to live up this way. I imagine she got...confused. Turned around.”

      “She was armed.”

      “Everyone up here is armed. We got bear and moose and elk.” And survivalists with semi-automatic assault rifles, he finished silently.

      Eddie released his grip on the rifle strap to scratch under his jaw at the coarse black beard. He looked so much different than from just a few years back when he was muscular and fit. Now his body looked undernourished and his face gaunt.

      Axel watched Eddie as the man considered his options in silence.

      After a long silent stretch, Axel had had about enough. “Open the gate or I’m ramming it.”

      “You can’t do that.” Their eyes met.

      “I’m getting my girl so open up or stand aside.”