Sylvia took Una’s portfolio and slung it over her own shoulder. “I’ll take this. You go up front and light the way for Jonas. Be careful.”
Una thanked her, took the flashlight, and moved ahead of Jonas.
Gabriel and Sylvia walked at the back. Both were carrying heavy portfolios, yet they moved with an easy grace, as if on level ground.
When they reached a steep section of the trail, Gabriel turned to Sylvia. “Give me your bag, too.”
“I’m fine,” she said with a light laugh. “I can still manage. I’ll ask for help if I need it.”
“Dew has settled on the mountain, making the steps slippery. Be careful,” he said, holding out his hand to her.
Sylvia’s gaze flickered over his broad palm, her heart quickening, but she didn’t take it. “Don’t underestimate the agent you trained,” she smiled. After a beat, she added, “Your top agent.”
Gabriel decided it wasn’t the time to challenge that claim.
Sylvia walked on ahead, calling out, “The steps are slippery! Everyone be careful. Better to go slow than to get hurt.”
“Got it!”
“Okay!”
The others called back in response.
After about fifteen minutes, something darted out from the bushes at the side of the path, right under Sylvia’s feet. She was mid-step and, startled, tried to avoid crushing it. She took a large, sudden step forward. The stone step was wet and slick. Her foot slipped, and she pitched forward.
Gabriel’s reaction was instantaneous. He grabbed her arm, pulling her back and half-lifting her into his arms.
Sylvia gasped, glancing into the dark woods. “What was that?”
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