CHAPTER SIXTEEN

I don’t hesitate in running back to where I left our things. Quickly putting on the bags and carrying the remaining two, I make my way into the stream and rush back.

My body is screaming in exhaustion, but I feel as light as a feather.

Jesse is alive!

However, as I reach my destination, I slow down. Even if he is alive, I still can’t save him. I can’t ask the group to go back. Considering how badly we were injured the first time around, nobody is going to try a second time. And why should they? It’s asking for a death sentence.

But I can’t leave Jesse like this.

At this point, I don’t know what to do.

Even I know I won’t be able to take on any of the enemy. They’re strong while we’re still learning the ropes.

Confused and shaken, I make my way to the cave, my legs aching.

I’ve barely entered when Beth throws herself at me, her voice panicked, “Where have you been?! It’s been hours, Taylor!”

That’s when she notices the bags I’m carrying.

She takes a step back, paling. “No. D