CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT
The mountainside is a mosaic of greenery and rock, and the air is rich with the scent of pine and fresh earth. I pick my way carefully over the moss-covered stones, trying to keep pace with Kyle. Love limps at my side, her injured leg a constant reminder of our vulnerability. Despite the pain etched on her face, she doesn't complain, her eyes set determinedly ahead.
"Careful," Kyle warns, as he glances back at us. His voice is gentle, but there's an urgency in his gaze that tells me he’s aware of the dangers lurking in these woods. He reaches out to steady Love when she stumbles, a silent vow of protection hanging between them.
"Thank you," Love murmurs, clinging to his arm for a moment longer than necessary. I can tell she appreciates more than just the assistance;
