Chapter 18

*10 years ago continued* 

*Cole POV* 

The moon hangs high in the sky, bathing her small features that are indiscernible with so much blood and dirt over her in a dim white light. I can barely hear her heart. I can’t hear her breathing but I can slightly feel it against my bare chest. Her body is so small and getting colder. I hold her tightly, I want to keep her safe, I need to keep her safe.

I clutch her tightly against me, trying to infuse my own heat into her rapidly cooling skin. She is light as a feather, my heart aches for her, the moon seems to get brighter, lighting my way, making it easier to move faster and faster through the thick trees. 

I hold my own breath until I feel the small warm breath against my chest. I am not sure what I am hoping. I want to give my breath to her, ……