Her pregnant belly made it difficult to move quickly or quietly, and the uneven forest floor was treacherous. She stumbled over roots and rocks, her breath coming in short, strained gasps. But determination propelled her forward. She needed answers, no matter the cost.
Paul moved swiftly, his familiarity with the forest evident in his confident strides. Melissa struggled to keep up, her legs aching and her back throbbing. She paused often to catch her breath.