Chapter 1260

"Not yet," Jude said. "We need to be sure. And we need help."

"Who?"

"Zoey," they both said in unison.

They waited until late afternoon, when the group returned. Rose's party walked into the clearing with baskets full of wild herbs and glimmering stone fruits. Natalie laughed as she placed a heavy bundle into Emma's arms. Layla trailed just behind, arm brushing Rose's with every step. The moment they stepped into the clearing, the atmosphere shifted. Smiles turned softer. Voices dipped. Bodies leaned toward each other.

Jude watched silently. So did Sophie.

And Zoey, from her post near the edge of the firewood pile, narrowed her eyes.

That night, Jude approached Zoey under the veil of darkness. She met him at the edge of camp, where the fire's glow no longer reached. Sophie followed minutes later.

Zoey didn't wait for an explanation. "I've been watching too."

"How many?" Jude asked.