Chapter 97

"I'm going to let go of you. I'll climb up first, then pull you up," Callum said. Nadia instinctively shook her head, her eyes full of fear. Let go? She couldn't do such a thing. "Don't be afraid." He repeated the words, this time with even more resolve. "I'll get you out of here. But listen to me. Once you grab that branch, don't let go—no matter what." The cluster of trees drew closer as the river carried them downstream with increasing speed. Nadia fixed her eyes on the branch swaying just above the water's surface. She nodded firmly. She reached up, her arms stiff and cold. The moment her fingers brushed the rough bark, she gritted her teeth and tightened her grip with everything she had. At that very instant, she felt the arm around her waist let go. Terror surged through her, but she held onto the branch with all her strength, eyes shut tightly. She couldn't bear to look, couldn't even afford to think. A moment later, a warm hand grasped her wrist. "Nadia!" It was C