EXCERPTS:

                      

Under Starry Skies             

 

     Tye rolled up into a crouch, reset his hat, and faced Maria.
     “Listen, I have an idea. I’m going to take you farther back into the forest, hide you, and then I’m going down the mountain a bit in search of my horse.”
     “You’re going to abandon me, Tydall Ashmore?" 
     He winced, his expression was almost apologetic. “No, I’m going to leave you for a few minutes. I promise I’ll return.”
     “No, take me with you. Please.” Icy fear glistened in her eyes.
      He raised his hand and caressed the side of her face with his knuckles. “You have to trust me, Maria, if we’re going to get back down this mountain alive.” 
     He gestured toward the dense woods behind them. “Come, let me find a place farther from the path where it’s safe and secure. I promise I’ll be back to get you.”
     Minutes later, when he turned to leave, she grabbed him by his upper arm. “Wait,” she said, her voice faltering, her gaze fearful. “Please be careful.”
      He felt the electricity of her touch, and for a moment they stared at each other, unable to tear their attention away. 
     He left her then on the perimeter of the small clearing, but not before softly touching his lips above her eyebrow and whispering near her ear, “Trust me. You have to trust me, Maria. I’ll come back for you.”