Chapter 36
Shadow Valley – Texas 1871
Isaac and Megan's screams tore through the peaceful afternoon, sending shivers down Buck's spine. He sprinted towards them, dread pooling in his stomach as he saw them running from the creek with no sign of Halona. A deafening roar reached his ears, a primal cry of pure rage carried on the wind, confirming his worst fears.
As he rounded the bend in the path, two figures came into view. His heart stopped at the sight - Halona struggling in the grasp of a hulking figure submerged in the gurgling water. Without hesitation, Buck drew his gun, the world fading away to focus solely on Halona's terrified face and the man's twisted snarl - a frozen moment of violence.
The gunshot echoed through the valley, a sharp punctuation mark in the serene landscape. The man crumpled to the ground, releasing Halona from his grip. Relief surged through Buck as he rushed to her side, but it was short-lived as a new wave of terror washed over him.
Halona lay motionless on the muddy bank, her skin pale against the vibrant hues of nature. Buck pulled her closer, frantically searching for any sign of life. But there was only silence and panic clawed at his throat as he pounded on her back.
Then, like a miracle, she coughed and sputtered, gasping for air as water spilled from her lips. Buck's heart soared with overwhelming relief as she opened her eyes – first confusion, then recognition dawning in their depths. He held her tightly, soaking wet and covered in mud but feeling more alive than ever before – knowing that she was safe and breathing in his arms.