Rachael POV
I tried to lift Eryx, my arms trembling under his weight, but he didn’t move. Not even a twitch. Panic knotted in my stomach, squeezing my chest. “Eryx… please… wake up!” I shook him lightly, hoping somehow my voice could drag him back from wherever he was. But the forest swallowed my words, leaving only the sound of my own ragged breathing.
I took a step back, chest heaving, scanning the shades between the trees. Maybe someone—anyone was nearby. Maybe someone could help. “Help! Somebody! Please… is anyone here pls help me!” I screamed, my voice cracking, slicing through the heavy quiet. But nothing answered me. Not even the wind stirred. It was like the forest itself was holding its breath, waiting. My heart hammered so hard I thought it might burst.
I turned back to him. E
