Built From Broken

Trigger Finger

Kairo sat back, arms crossed, watching Soraya handle the Glock like it was a damn toy.

She wasn't nervous—not how most people would be. Not how he expected her to be. She held it firm, lips pressed together, lashes low with focus.

Bam stood beside her, nodding in approval. "Yeah, just like that, shorty."

Kairo's jaw twitched. He hated hearing Bam call her that.

Soraya aimed, feet planted, finger resting just outside the trigger. Kairo stepped up behind her, voice low and deep in her ear. "Breathe. Don't rush it." His hand came around her waist, steadying her stance.

She exhaled slow. Then—boom.

The first shot sent a slight recoil through her arm, but she didn't flinch. Didn't even hesitate before pulling again. The second bullet punched through the target, closer to center.

Kairo's lips curled slightly. "Aight, I see you."

Soraya glanced up at him, eyes sharp. "Thought I was gon' be scared?"

Bam chuckled from the side. "I'on know, blood. I think she shoot better than you."

Kairo shot him a look, then turned his attention back to her. She always had that cocky smirk on her face—the same one that made him wanna humble her.

He reached over, adjusting her grip slightly, his fingers brushing against hers. "You talkin' crazy, shorty. I might need to put you to the test."

Soraya arched a brow. "Set it up then."

That made him laugh under his breath. She was bold. He liked that. Maybe too much.

She fired off another shot. This time, dead center.

Bam whistled low. "Yeah, she gon' be a problem."

Kairo stepped back, nodding slow. His eyes dragged over her, something unreadable in his expression. He had brought her here to teach her something—to make sure she could protect herself.

But now, watching her hold that gun like it was second nature, something else settled in his chest.

She solid. More than he ever realized.

And if she ever had to use it for real.
Whoever was on the other side, don't stand a chance.