The forest was quiet again, but Susan’s heart was pounding so hard, it felt like it might leap out of her chest. She had seen something—something fast and dark, moving between the trees. It had been too quick to make out what it was, but she knew it wasn’t a friendly presence. The stillness around them was unsettling, as if the entire forest was holding its breath, waiting for something to happen.
James stood a few feet ahead of her, his hand gripping the dagger tightly. His eyes scanned the trees, sharp and alert. He was always ready for danger, always on guard. But even he seemed tense now, his shoulders rigid, his body coiled like a spring, prepared to strike if necessary.
“Stay close to me,” he said quietly, his voice low and firm. “Whatever it is, we need to be ready.”
Susan nodded
