Almost there.
A massive tree stood ahead, its roots twisting into the earth like thick veins.
Vines hung from its branches, hiding a small hollow in the trunk like natural curtains.
A hiding spot.
I half-dragged Ma the last few feet, shoving us both inside.
Then, silence.
I forced myself to stay still, pressing a hand over my mouth to quiet my breathing.
Ma sank against the bark, her face pale, sweat trickling down her temple. Her breath came in quiet, controlled exhales.
Outside, the clicking slowed.
The ground trembled as the creature stopped.
It was close.
I could feel it just beyond the vines, lingering.
I gritted my teeth.
Seconds stretched into minutes.
Then, finally—
The clicking faded.
It moved on.
I exhaled sharply, my arms trembling.
That was too close.
I turned to Ma.
Blood still leaked from her wounds. The spikes were twisted at the ends. Removing them would be brutal.
