KELLER
Why do I always end up carrying everyone’s mess?
I didn't even have the answer to my question as the words formed a large cyst around my heart.
My voice sounded low in the dark. It was rough and almost bitter.
I was walking back to camp, my boots crunching against the dirt and fallen leaves.
Bennett stayed behind. I didn’t ask why, because I knew. He wanted space, wanted to wrestle with the beast inside him without my eyes watching.
I didn’t blame him.
When I reached camp, the fire was still flickering, small but alive. Teresa was inside her tent.
I watched her breathing softly and steady. She was asleep. For once, she looked peaceful, and I almost envied her for that.
I lowered myself onto a log, staring at the flames. My chest was heavy and I didn't know what to do abo
