My lungs burn from the effort of dashing to Jer's scream.
Even then, I trail far behind Lyre and Owen, who have the advantage of supernatural speed.
I hate it.
Hate being human and slow when a child needs me.
These kids are vulnerable, and I'm supposed to be watching over them—what was I thinking, letting him dash off like this?
Easy: Jer was being Jer. Overexcited about the idea of taking a dog with us, even if we don't need it and she belongs to other people. I didn't think twice about his exuberance as he bounded off to "ask for permission". I should have.
By the time I reach the Archie and Doris's camper site, everything's already in motion. Broad-shouldered Owen pushes his way into the trailer first, disappearing into the doorway. Lyre, on the other hand, reaches inside and drags Jer backward, away from whatever he's seen.
