The helicopter's searchlight swept the treetops in wide, menacing arcs, the rhythmic hum of its blades echoing across the forest. Scarlett's breath came in short, ragged bursts as she pressed herself deeper into the damp earth, Ellen trembling at her side.
"Stay low," Nathan whispered, his voice barely audible.
The beam passed over them, illuminating the twisted branches but missing their huddled forms. For a heartbeat, the group remained frozen, waiting for the next sweep. But it never came. The helicopter drifted south, vanishing into the haze.
"They're circling back," Henry said. "We have to move. Now."
Nathan nodded sharply. "The cabin—we're close. Come on."
They staggered to their feet.
"We need to stop—she needs help," Scarlett said, voice tight.
"No time," Nathan growled. "Just a little farther."