The dawn light hadn’t even crossed the sky.
The three of them walked silently through the trees of the northeastern border, careful to avoid the patrols.
“Here,” Caleb whispered, pulling on Ashleigh’s hand before she could go any further.
Ashleigh stopped, looking back at him woefully.
Caleb looked back at Galen.
“I’ll keep an eye out,” Galen said softly before turning and giving them some privacy.
A soft smile spread over Caleb’s mouth. He reached a hand to Ashleigh’s cheek.
“Don’t do that,” he whispered. Then, taking a step closer, he placed his other hand at her waist.
Ashleigh leaned into him, pressing her head into his chest. He held her close, kissing the top of her hair.
“I’ll be back as soon as possible,” he said. “I promise.”
“Keep yourself safe,” she whispered.
“You too.”
Ashleigh scoffed.
“I’ll be here waiting for you to come back. The only danger I have to worry about is boredom.”
