Chapter Seventy One

Scarlett’s POV

But disappointment washed over me as a woodland creature scampered away, its presence a mere illusion of solace.

The night wore on, and my sense of direction waned. The forest seemed to taunt me, its dark tendrils reaching out to ensnare me in its depths. My strength waned, and I sank to the ground, tears streaming down my dirt-streaked cheeks.

The glimmer of light ahead seemed to mock me, teasingly distant and unattainable. My body ached with exhaustion, and every step felt like a battle against the unforgiving terrain. The pain in my abdomen intensified, sharp twinges that twisted my insides. Panic surged within me, and I clutched my belly protectively.

"Oh, no," I gasped, my voice quivering with fear. "Please, not now. Not when I'm so far from home."

The tears that streamed down my cheeks mingled with the dirt on my face as I struggled to find the strength to continue.

Taking a deep breath, I tried to steady myself, to push away the fear and anxiety that threatened t