Ross carefully examined the tree before he reached up, gripped the tangled roots and pulled himself up onto it. He tested a few places before putting his full weight down in case there were any rotted sections. Overall, there appeared to be enough nooks and crevices for him to get a good foothold.
He quickly reached out to steady himself when the tree suddenly shook and shifted under his feet. He wobbled unsteadily, bent forward, and scanned the tree trunk until his gaze reached the top of the tree.
He wondered if the island was doing another moan and groan. He turned his head when he heard Gem’s frantic shout above the roaring sound of the rushing water below him and the tree. Straightening up, he frowned and started to release his grip on the branch when he saw her running toward him.
