Chapter 47
The dwindling, rational core of Leo's mind whispered...
Just get away. Walk away.
He let the dog go, thankful when she followed the horse. Getting to his feet, Leo watched the dog's path. If he looked toward the rising light and heat behind him, he'd be lost.
And Maria would be saved.
Gunfire made him jump and nearly lose his footing. That scream again, this time agony rather than fury.
Leo fell to his knees, hands over his face.
Countless times alone in the night, he'd begged a god he didn't believe in for just one chance. One way to save her. He'd begged for more time right up until her last few days.
Then, he'd sent up whispered prayers for her last breath to be sooner rather than later.
That guilt was worse than all the rest.
He crawled forward, trying to force his
