KYLE
The forest was quiet now, save for the steady rhythm of Valerie’s breathing as she lay limp in my arms. Her body was so light, as though all the tension and strength that had filled her earlier had drained away, leaving her fragile and weightless. Her face, usually animated with determination, was pale, her features slack with exhaustion.
I tightened my grip on her, my fingers pressing gently against the curve of her back, and glanced down at her hands. They felt cold, limp in my grasp. “Valerie,” I murmured, my voice low, hoping for some response. There was none. Her head lolled slightly against my shoulder, and a knot tightened in my chest.
“She’s out cold,” Chris said behind me, his voice heavy with concern.
“Let me help you carry her,” Evans offered, stepping forward, his exp
