11Seeing Martin and Bryan ahead of him, Clay relaxed for the first time since making his second getaway from the soldiers. His horse slowed as it caught up to the two men and stopped, both man and animal dragging much-needed air into their deprived lungs. He knew pushing the animal wasn’t smart, but the building fear pounding through him erased all reason. During the frantic ride to catch up with Martin and Bryan, he’d blamed himself. If only he’d stayed and protected her as he’d promised. By leaving camp, he’d all but handed Sophia to Todd.
“Clay?” Strain was evident in Martin’s weak voice.
Winded, Clay held up his hand, trying to slow his breathing. “You were right, Martin. I was running away. I was almost to the border between Arkansas and the Territory and realized I couldn’t leave h
