They continued deeper into the forest, where the trees grew closer together, casting long shadows over the moss-covered ground.
The air grew cooler, and the sounds of the forest seemed to close in around them.
Another deer came into view, grazing quietly near a thicket.
Mark quickly took his position, his breath steadying as he lined up the shot.
He fired, but once again, the bullet went wide, the deer bolting off into the safety of the trees.
Mark swore under his breath, lowering his rifle in frustration.
"Perhaps you'll have better luck with the next one."
Mark forced a grin, but his eyes betrayed his growing irritation. "Yes, perhaps," he replied, though the edge in his voice was unmistakable.
As they continued their hunt, the tension between them grew palpable, each missed shot deepening Mark's frustration and fueling Bright's quiet determination.
