I can just make out the shape of the building rising beyond the trees. Mist is beginning to make it's way into the forest and I can feel myself slowing down. Three days on the run and the bandage is soaked with blood again. I am unsteady on my feet and the uneven ground causes me to pitch forward. The taste of dirt mixes with blood as I lay there, trying to catch my breath.
Will they find me this time? Am I finally safe?
Fear forces me to stand. Dragging my injured leg behind me, I focus on each painful step as I stumble down the dirt path leading to the forest entrance. Every drop of blood I leave behind can lead the dogs to me. If only I can make it to the sanctuary I might have a chance. If only. My mind drifts through a sea of if onlys and what might have been. If only I had never met Kyle. If only I hadn't decided he could be trusted. If only I hadn't been in the wrong place at the wrong time, none of this would have happened and I wouldn't be running for my life. If only...
