To Court’s surprise, Ronnie wanted Bree to go with him to see about the chickens. “Why?” Court wanted to know. “Adam can’t shoot the gun.”
“He can and he will,” Ronnie said.
But when he held out Bree’s gun, Adam wouldn’t take it. “I can’t. I told you—”
“You will.” Ronnie thrust the gun at Adam, who fumbled with it.
Court thought he’d drop it, and probably set it off by accident, too. But at the last moment, he managed to hold onto it, though he was obviously reluctant. His nose wrinkled in distaste, and he held his hands flat, letting the gun rest in his palms. “I can’t,” he said weakly.
Taking a step closer, Ronnie stared hard at Adam. “You will, if not to protect yourself, then to protect him.” Ronnie pointed at Court, who ducked his head, embarrassed, when Adam glanced his way. “Be
