The Current Between Us
Green eyes, tired and knowing.
He knew she had the comb.
And he knew nightfall was coming.
“Beatrice!” a guard’s voice snapped, sharp as a whip. “Get back in line!”
Mom shoved her forward, gentle but fast. “Go. Act normal. Head down. We move when their backs turn. One breath, one kick.”
Beatrice stepped back into line, legs shaking under her tunic. The comb felt heavier with every second, like it was pulling her down. Across the post, Bale lifted his head just slightly. His mouth moved. No sound came out, but Beatrice read his lips.