The tension in the clearing was suffocating. Scarlett tightened her grip on Nathan's hand, her heart thundering as the beams of headlights swept across the trees. The crunch of tires on the gravel grew louder, echoing like a drumbeat.
"Scatter," Lang whispered sharply, his voice low but urgent.
"They'll surround us if we stay grouped together."
Scarlett exchanged a glance with Nathan, the unspoken words passing between them clear. Splitting up increased the danger, but it was their only chance.
"Stay safe," Nathan murmured, his lips brushing her forehead briefly before releasing her hand.
....
Scarlett darted toward the bushes, the cold night flies biting at her skin. Twigs snapped underfoot as she moved through the trees, her breaths coming in quick, shallow bursts. Every step felt like a gamble, every sound a potential threat.
