Chapter 1097

"I've got to check the east traps with Susan," Jude replied. "Maybe later."

Rose pouted slightly but didn't press. "You'll change your mind."

Sophie stepped in before the conversation could deepen. "We'll go with them. Someone should."

Emma's jaw twitched. "Good idea. We'll keep an eye."

The group split. Jude left with Susan and Natalie to check the traps. Behind them, Rose, Layla, and Zoey disappeared into the trees, with Emma and Sophie trailing at a careful distance.

The river was wide and glassy, sparkling in the sunlight. Rose stripped first, slipping from her dress like a silk curtain dropping to the earth. She walked into the water naked, the sun gilding her skin, and Layla followed, giggling, not even pretending to be modest. Zoey was slower, but her eyes never left Rose's.

Emma and Sophie stayed at the edge, crouched in the brush.

"They're doing it again," Emma muttered.