#Chapter 96: The Moon

Ardal Jack's eyes are darting wildly in the forest around us. “Shhh,” he whispers in my ear. “Someone’s out here.” He drops his hand from my lips as I comply, obediently frozen in place, unsure of what to do. He inhales sharply and points to a juniper bush standing a few feet away. My muscles tense as I look from the juniper to woods ahead, my body prepared to bolt away - injured or not. If I have to crawl, I will, I think. But at the same time, I know logically, I have no chance of escape. When I don’t move, he hooks me gently, but hurriedly, under the arm. He pulls me into the shrubbery, pushing aside the soft, fragrant branches to conceal us inside like two foxes seeking refuge from a pack of wild hounds. I shut my eyes tight, a whimper nearly escaping my throat as Jack stiffens beside me. I have no idea what he senses out there, but terror oozes off him in waves so strong I can almost taste it. After what feels like an eternity of agonizing silence, he mu