Chapter 380

Cole’s POV

It’s taking me longer to pick my way through the woods going back to Maverick’s house than it took for me to find the shacks. Liz is heavier than I was prepared for requiring me to stop every few minutes to shift her weight from one side to the other.

While it feels weird to me, I’m glad that Buddy woke up. He has heightened my senses and has made it a lot easier to keep myself on track to where I need to go. I can tell by the strength of Maverick’s scent that I’m getting close as I stop, placing my hand upon a tree to catch my breath. It’s as I slow my breathing that I hear the sound of cracking branches nearby.

“Who’s out there?” I call out as everything within me goes on high alert.

“Stay where you are.” A voice with authority calls back.

I’m torn between running the last quarter mile to Maverick’s house and doing as he says.

“I mean you no harm. This little girl is hurt. I just want to get her to Maverick’s house t