As the oldest in that small group, Naomi worked up the courage to move first. Even though her heart was still pounding from the gunshot they had just heard, she forced herself to stay calm. At least, as calm as she could manage.
"Naomi..." Grace's voice came softly from behind her. The little girl was now clutching Josh's arm tightly.
Naomi glanced back. "It's okay." She wasn't sure whether those words were meant for Grace or for herself.
Josh looked like he wanted to say something. From the expression on his face, it was obvious that he wanted to take over and walk ahead instead. But before the young man could step forward, Naomi shook her head first.
"You should make sure Grace and Eli stay behind me."
Josh looked unconvinced. "But—"
"Josh." Naomi's tone wasn't harsh, but it was firm enough to make him stop speaking.
A few seconds later, the young man let out a quiet breath and nodded. "Alright."
Naomi turned her gaze forward again and began walking slowly. Every step felt much heavier than before. The trail that had seemed pleasant earlier now looked different. The pine trees that had previously appeared beautiful were casting long shadows that made the surroundings feel even more silent.
No one spoke. The only sounds were their footsteps and the rustling of leaves whenever the wind stirred them. Naomi tried to ignore the trembling in her legs, but it wasn't easy. The closer they got to the campsite, the more terrible possibilities began to fill her mind.
What if someone had attacked the Miller family? What if that gunshot had really been aimed at someone? What if...
Naomi immediately cut off her own thoughts. No. Don't think too far ahead, Naomi. There's no proof of anything yet, she told herself. But for some reason, that uneasy feeling refused to go away.
Behind her, Eli walked in silence. The girl was trying to appear calm as usual. Even so, Naomi had noticed that her fingers were gripping the edge of her jacket a little tighter than normal.
Eli was afraid too. Maybe all of them were afraid. It was just that no one wanted to be the first to say it.
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