Chapter 143

Ari ran through the forest as quickly as she could, headed toward who knew where. She remembered that there was a road that lead back to the village, and she had to find it. She couldn't follow the beach; she'd ever get home.

Home.

A small word that held so much power. As she ran, all she could think of was Grayson and going home, their home together, at the castle. Then she fell, stumbling over a root protruding from the ground, but caught herself with her hands. But she got up and started running again. After a bit, she looked behind her to see if anyone was following... and ran straight into something. When she looked up... it was Piers.

"No!" she screamed at the top of her lungs, her knees buckling under her. But to her surprise, he caught her in his strong arms.

"Quiet!" Piers said, holding a finger to his lips.

"Hold it right there." When she looked up and saw Grayson holding a gun, her heart leapt with relief and joy.

"Grayson!"

Piers quickly pulled her in front of him. "I want